If you’re buying or selling a home in the Greater New Orleans Area, you’ve probably run into the same roadblock: Insurance companies refusing to write a policy because the roof is “too old.” And the shocking part? The roof might only be 15 years old.

Here’s what’s really happening: Louisiana’s insurance market is in crisis.
After multiple major hurricanes, over a dozen insurers left the state or went bankrupt. The companies still here are being extremely selective. Many insurers now cap roof age at 10–15 years. Even if the roof looks fine, carriers see a 15-year-old roof in Louisiana as high risk. UV damage, past storms, and heat all add up in our climate.

Insurance Roof inspections are stricter than ever. A little granule loss, lifted shingles, or worn flashing can trigger an immediate denial—no leaks required. Lenders usually require full replacement-cost coverage, but some insurers only offer ACV (actual cash value) on older roofs… and mortgage companies won’t accept that.

So yes, buyers are struggling—and sellers are frustrated. This isn’t a “bad roof problem.” It’s a Louisiana insurance problem.

Things you can do to help the sale of your house? Offering a roof credit, replacing the roof before closing, getting a professional roof evaluation, or working with local agents who know which carriers still write older roofs.

Louisianans aren’t alone in this, but we’re definitely feeling it the hardest. If you’re trying to sell or buy right now, you’re not imagining it… this market is tough.

Schedule a Fortified Roof Evaluation today!