Does a Metal Roof Lower Your Insurance in Florida? The Ultimate Guide

If you’re like most Florida homeowners, you’ve probably felt that pit in your stomach when the insurance renewal notice shows up in the mail. 

Another hike. Another excuse. Another reminder that living in paradise comes with a price tag. 

We know firsthand how crazy this insurance rollercoaster has gotten. It’s not just frustrating, it feels unfair.

This is a reason why people may be skeptical when installing metal roofs. This article is here to get you the peace of mind you deserve. 

Here, we’re going to demystify how insurance companies really view metal roofs and the benefits of installing them. 

Let’s dive into the facts right away!

Metal vs. Other Roofing Materials — Quick Overview

First, here’s a quick breakdown to show you why more Floridians are choosing metal:

Material	Typical Lifespan	Durability	Energy Efficiency	Insurance Benefits
Metal Roof	40–70 years	Extremely high (hurricanes, hail)	Excellent (reflective)	Often eligible for discounts
Asphalt Shingles	15–25 years	Moderate (wind damage common)	Poor	Requires more frequent replacement
Tile Roof	30–50 years	Good, but fragile to impact	Good	Moderate (depends on carrier)
Roll Roofing	5–10 years	Low durability	Poor	Low

You can see that metal beats all other options easily. That justifies the high demand for metal roofs. Even though they cost more, people are ready to pay the price for extra protection and security. 

It’s common sense that insurers would love metal roofs too, as they last longer, offer better protection, require less maintenance, and significantly reduce the risk of weather-related claims.

Sadly, it’s not that simple with metal roofs.  Let’s find out what insurance will look like when you install metal roofs! 

How Roof Insurance Works in Florida

When it comes to roofing and insurance in Florida, there are two things you need to know upfront: it’s complicated, and it’s changing fast.

So let’s walk through what’s really going on and what you need to be watching for.

See How Insurers Assess Roofing Risk in Florida

Insurance companies don’t see your roof the same way you do. To them, your roof isn’t just a structure; it’s a risk factor. And here’s how they assess it:

1. Material

Asphalt, tile, metal; each have a different resistance profile. Metal roofs tend to score highest for wind and impact resistance.

2. Age

Most carriers see 15 years as a turning point. Even a well-maintained metal roof might raise red flags past this age unless documentation proves otherwise.

3. Location

Coastal? Inland? Flood zone? Your ZIP code can make a huge difference.

4. Wind Resistance

Insurance companies look for wind mitigation features like hurricane clips, sealed roof decks, and secondary water barriers.

Now, explore some essential terms that you should be aware of while dealing with insurance for your metal roof.

Helpful resource → Florida Roofing Insurance in 2025

Important Terms To Understand For Roof Insurance

Let’s break down the big terms you’ll hear tossed around in your policy paperwork:

1. Wind Mitigation

These are construction features that help your home resist strong winds, and if you can prove them, you may qualify for discounts.

2. Roof Life

This is how long your roof is expected to last, not in theory, but in your insurer’s view. Without an updated inspection, they may assume 15 years max.

3. RCV (Replacement Cost Value) vs. ACV (Actual Cash Value):

• RCV covers the full cost to replace your roof at today’s prices.
• ACV subtracts for depreciation, meaning if your roof is 15+ years old, your payout could be next to nothing.

4. Coverage Limits

The maximum amount your insurer will pay for a roofing claim. Make sure yours isn’t capped too low.

Legal Changes After 2022

Not long ago, insurance companies in Florida could drop you just because your roof was 15 years old, even if it was in perfect condition. 

But Florida Statute §627.7011(5) changed the game. Here’s what the law says now:

If a roof is over 15 years old, an insurer must allow the homeowner to have an inspection. If that inspection shows the roof has at least 5 years of useful life left, the insurer cannot deny coverage based on age alone.

That means you have leverage, but you’ve got to be proactive. 

Get the inspection. Keep the documentation. And ensure your policy accurately reflects your roof’s actual condition, not just the date it was installed.

By now, you should understand the factors that influence your roof insurance. It’s time to see whether metal roofs lower insurance premiums or not.

Do Metal Roofs Lower Homeowners’ Insurance Premiums?

Source -> Redfin

The short answer? Yes, but it’s not automatic. Just installing a metal roof doesn’t guarantee you’ll wake up to a lower premium. 

In Florida’s tricky insurance market, paperwork, inspections, and certifications matter just as much as the roof itself. Let’s explore this in more detail.

When a Metal Roof Can Lower Your Premium

In the right setup, switching to a metal roof can slash your insurance by 5% to as much as 30%. 

We’ve seen it firsthand at Florida Roofing and Gutters during our client follow-ups. Some folks saved a few hundred bucks a year, others saved a few thousand, depending on their carrier and home setup.

But again, you have to play by the rules of the insurance world. Because not all metal roofs are the same. 

Understanding How Insurers Evaluate Metal Roofs

Insurance companies look at metal roofs under a magnifying glass. Here’s what matters most to them:

1. Impact Rating

Roofs with a Class 4 impact rating (like those certified under UL 2218) are preferred. This rating means your roof can take a pounding from hail and debris without major damage.

2. Miami-Dade County Approval

Florida’s gold standard. Roofs that meet Miami-Dade certification show serious wind resistance, a big plus for storm-prone zones.

3. Fastener Type

Not all metal roofs are equal. Standing seam metal roofs (hidden fasteners) usually score better with insurers than screw-down metal roofs (exposed fasteners) because they’re more durable in high winds.

Now, what are the requirements to fulfil so you get the maximum discounts?

Required Inspections to Unlock Discounts

Just installing a metal roof isn’t enough. You must prove it. Most insurance carriers will want two things after you upgrade:

1. Wind Mitigation Inspection

This shows the roof’s storm resistance features (clips, wraps, sealed decks, etc.).

2. 4-Point Inspection

Focuses on the roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, mainly for homes 20+ years old, but often required anyway.

And here’s a real-world story we hear all the time:

“I upgraded to a brand-new standing seam metal roof, thinking I’d finally get some relief on my insurance bill. Six months later, nothing. Called the insurance company, turns out, they never received my updated Wind Mitigation report! Sent it in, and boom, $1,200 a year savings.”

Moral of the story? Get the inspections. Submit the paperwork. Confirm that the carrier applied the discounts.

Helpful resource → Florida Roofing Scams: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

What Homeowners Get Wrong About Metal Roof Insurance

Even with all the benefits that come with installing a metal roof, there are a few big misconceptions that trip up a lot of homeowners.

Let’s break them down.

1. Thinking Material Longevity Automatically Guarantees Insurance Discounts

Just because a metal roof can last 40 to 70 years doesn’t mean your insurance company will automatically see it that way.

Insurance companies care more about documentation, risk assessments, and inspections. Without proper paperwork proving the strength and condition of your new metal roof, they’ll treat it just like any other 15-year ticking time bomb.

Moral of the story: Durability matters, but proof matters more.

2. Not Submitting Updated Inspections After Installation

This is a crucial but common mistake that we’ve seen countless times — homeowners forget to send updated documents after installations. 

Result? 

No discount. No lowered premium. No appreciation from the carrier at all.

Always submit your new inspections immediately after your roof upgrade.

3. Skipping Proper Certifications, Like Hurricane Straps and Clips

Metal roofing is tough, but insurers want more than just tough panels.

They’re looking for:

• Hurricane straps
• Roof-to-wall connections
• Sealed roof decks
• Secondary water barriers

Skipping these critical upgrades or letting a contractor take shortcuts can result in significant financial losses due to missed insurance credits.

That’s why, when our team installs a roof, we ensure every system is fully compliant with Florida’s toughest wind mitigation standards.

4. Believing Metal Is Always Favored (Screw-Down vs. Standing Seam)

Not all metal roofs are created equal in the eyes of insurance companies.

1. Standing Seam Metal Roofs 

Concealed fasteners, sleek design, superior wind resistance — often preferred by insurers.

2. Screw-Down Metal Roofs 

Exposed fasteners, higher maintenance needs, and more vulnerability in high winds. That’s often penalized by insurers.

If you’re going to invest in metal, standing seam is the way to go for maximum durability and maximum insurance credit potential.

5. Assuming HOA-Approved Roofs Are Automatically Insurable

Just because your HOA approves a roofing material or color doesn’t mean your insurance company loves it, too.

Some HOAs still push for aesthetics over performance. 

We’ve seen cases where homeowners complied with HOA rules but then struggled to get full wind mitigation credits because the materials didn’t meet Miami-Dade standards.

Always balance what the HOA requires with what your insurer demands. 

Bottom line: A metal roof is a powerful tool — but like anything else, it only works if you know how to use it. Stay informed, stay strategic, and let us help you get every ounce of protection, value, and savings your new roof deserves.

Helpful resource → Can Homeowners Insurance Make You Replace Your Roof in Florida?

Florida Insurance Law & Metal Roofs (What You Should Know)

Let’s be honest: dealing with insurance in Florida can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. 

But here’s the good news: you have more rights than you might think, especially when it comes to your roof.

Florida Statute §627.7011(5): The Law That’s On Your Side

As of 2022, Florida lawmakers finally stepped up and gave homeowners a little breathing room.
Under §627.7011(5), insurance companies cannot deny or refuse to renew your policy based solely on the age of your roof, as long as you can prove it still has at least five years of useful life left​.

So, even if your metal roof is 15, 20, or even 25 years old, you’re not automatically getting kicked to the curb. You simply need an inspection from a licensed professional confirming the roof is solid.

Documented Inspections Are Super Important

It’s not enough to “know” your roof is good. In the eyes of your insurance carrier, if it’s not documented, it doesn’t exist.

You’ll want:

• A Wind Mitigation Inspection proves storm-resistant features.
• A Roof Condition Certification verifying the roof’s lifespan and structural integrity.
• Photos, reports, and properly signed documents are ready to submit if needed.

Without these, you’re flying blind, and insurers can (and will) assume the worst.

Bonus Opportunity: My Safe Florida Home Program

Here’s something a lot of homeowners don’t even know about: The My Safe Florida Home program can offer you up to $10,000 in rebates to harden your home, including roof improvements!

If you’re upgrading to a metal roof, reinforcing your deck, or adding hurricane straps, you may qualify for major financial help​. It’s free money that can offset your costs. 

So, You’re not powerless in this crazy market. 

With the right roof, the right inspection, and a little help from programs like My Safe Florida Home, you can protect your home and your wallet, and that’s what we’re all about at Florida Roofing and Gutters.

Now to the big question.

What If You’re Rejected or Dropped?

Even after doing everything right, you might still get that dreaded letter from your insurance company saying they’re not renewing your policy. 

First things first: don’t panic. This doesn’t mean you’re out of options, and it definitely doesn’t mean you’re alone. Here’s what to do.

Step 1: Know That Citizens Insurance Is a Safety Net

If private insurers turn you down, you’re not left high and dry. Florida created Citizens Property Insurance Corporation as a fallback option for exactly this situation. 

Citizens isn’t always the cheapest, but they will keep you covered while you work through your next steps​.

At Florida Roofing and Gutters, we’ve seen plenty of families use Citizens temporarily; it’s a bridge, not a dead end.

Step 2: Shop the Market Again

Not all insurance carriers treat metal roofs or older roofs the same way. 

Some companies, like USAA, certain regional insurers, and even some smaller specialty carriers, have a better tolerance for metal roofs, even those over 15 years old.

It’s worth getting at least 3–5 fresh quotes before settling. And don’t be shy about showing off your inspections and certifications, a well-documented metal roof can tip the scales in your favor with the right carrier.

Step 3: Appeal the Decision with Inspection Paperwork

If you believe your insurer has dropped you unfairly based solely on the age of your roof, push back. Florida law states that if your inspection reveals the roof has 5 or more years of life remaining, you are entitled to continued coverage.

Send them:

• Your certified Wind Mitigation Inspection
• A Roof Condition Report
• Photos showing the roof’s excellent condition

Sometimes a simple appeal can reverse a cancellation, especially if you politely remind them of Florida’s updated laws.

Step 4: If Necessary, Hire a Certified Inspector to Verify Roof Life

If you didn’t already have an inspection, or if yours is outdated, invest in a new one. A licensed roof inspector (like the ones we partner with at Florida Roofing and Gutters) can provide a detailed report stating your roof’s remaining useful life.

This isn’t just paperwork, it’s ammunition to defend your right to fair coverage. 

So, truth be told, insurance with metal roofs is a tad bit more trickier than other materials. 

Should You Even Bother With a Metal Roof?

Here’s the truth: Yes, you absolutely should consider a metal roof. You just need to walk into it with your eyes wide open. Here are a few things to understand and what you get with metal roofs:

Understand The Costs, Savings, and Insurance Rules

Metal roofs aren’t cheap. They often cost two to three times more than basic asphalt shingles up front. 

And not every insurer will automatically roll out the red carpet and hand you discounts just because you upgraded.

You’ll need to document everything, file updated inspections, and sometimes shop around to get the savings you deserve. 

It Brings Peace of Mind, Storm Resistance, and Resale Value

At Florida Roofing and Gutters, we install metal roofs because of several reasons:

• A properly installed metal roof stands firm in heavy winds.
• When the summer sun pounds your neighborhood, a metal roof reflects the heat and keeps your energy bills lower.
• When it’s time to sell, your home will stand out; buyers know a new metal roof is a premium, long-lasting upgrade they can trust.

It’s protection for your family. It’s value for your future. It’s one less thing to lose sleep over when the storms roll in.

Last — Don’t Assume, Do Your Homework

Insurance companies aren’t charities. They’re businesses, and sometimes they need a little nudging to recognize and reward the investment you’ve made.

If you install a metal roof the right way, get it properly inspected, and stay proactive with your paperwork, you can absolutely turn your metal roof into an insurance advantage.

But the key? Knowledge + documentation + perseverance.

And you won’t be doing it alone — Florida Roofing and Gutters is here to help you every step of the way, from honest inspections to factory-certified installations to making sure you have the proof in hand to fight for every discount you deserve.

Final Thoughts 

If there’s one thing we hope you take away from this guide, it’s this: A metal roof can absolutely help you lower your insurance premiums, but only if you approach it strategically.

At Florida Roofing and Gutters, we believe in doing things the right way the first time. We don’t just throw metal panels on your house and call it a day. 

We make sure your home is built to stand strong against Florida’s toughest storms and that you have every bit of paperwork you need to protect your investment when it comes to insurance.

Because the truth is, Florida’s insurance landscape is constantly shifting. 

New laws, new underwriting rules, new requirements, what worked five years ago doesn’t always work today. That’s why staying informed, documented, and proactive is absolutely critical.

Want a metal roof installed? 

Schedule your free 12-point roof inspection today and get personalized advice from a team that treats your home like our own.