In today’s shifting real estate market, homebuyers are facing more than just tough competition and rising interest rates. One surprising factor that can delay—or even derail—a deal? The roof.
That’s right. In Central Ohio, roofing isn’t just about shingles and gutters—it’s about protecting your investment, navigating lender requirements, and avoiding last-minute surprises during closing. Understanding how roofs affect real estate transactions can save you time, money, and major headaches as a buyer.
Let’s break down what you need to know about roofing issues in the homebuying process, how new insurance trends are reshaping the landscape, and how to make sure you’re protected from contract to closing.
Why Roof Condition Matters More Than Ever
When you’re shopping for a home, you’re probably thinking about layout, location, and price—but the condition of the roof can impact all three.
In many Columbus-area transactions, the roof affects:
Financing approvals
Home insurance coverage
Time-to-close and negotiation power
A well-maintained roof can keep things moving smoothly. A neglected or aging roof? That could delay closing, increase your out-of-pocket costs, or even cause a lender to pull financing altogether.
That’s why smart buyers—and sellers—are leaning on trusted local roofing companies for fast inspections, honest quotes, and pre-closing repairs.
How Roofing Affects Your Home Insurance and Loan Approval
Over the past couple of years, insurance companies have tightened the rules around roof coverage. According to the Ohio Insurance Agents Association:
Roof age now matters more than ever. Even a 10-year-old roof can trigger a reduced payout if it’s damaged after purchase.
Deductibles are getting higher. Many policies now use percentage-based deductibles for wind or hail—meaning your out-of-pocket could be 1% or more of the home’s value.
Matching materials matter. Insurers may deny claims or renewals if roof repairs don’t match existing materials.
So what does this mean for you?
If you’re buying a home with a roof older than 10–15 years, there’s a risk that your insurance premium will spike—or worse, your coverage could be limited. That’s why it’s critical to get a roof inspection early in the buying process and know your options before committing.
Real Talk: Can a Roof Kill a Deal?
Unfortunately, yes. Many buyers don’t realize until it’s too late that their dream home has a roof issue that:
Causes the lender to back out
Increases the cost of insurance
Requires thousands in immediate repairs
To stay ahead of these pitfalls, work with a buyer’s agent who knows how to identify risks early—and who has relationships with retail-based, locally owned roofing companies that can inspect and repair quickly.
What Makes a Good Roofer for Homebuyers?
Not all roofing contractors are created equal. If you’re relying on inspections or need work done before closing, you’ll want a roofer who:
Offers fast inspections (within 24–48 hours)
Provides clear, transparent pricing without pressuring you into insurance claims
Can delay payment until closing (helping sellers fix issues without out-of-pocket costs)
Knows how to document repairs to satisfy insurance and lender requirements
These aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re deal-savers.
Pre-Closing Roof Inspections: A Buyer’s Best Friend
If you’re considering a home that’s more than 10 years old, ask your agent about a roof inspection contingency. This can:
Help you negotiate repairs before closing
Prevent delays caused by failed inspections during underwriting
Protect your long-term investment by ensuring the home is truly move-in ready
Roof repairs—or even full replacements—can often be negotiated into the purchase agreement and paid for at closing.
Quick Tips for Columbus Homebuyers
Ask for a roof inspection if the home is over 10 years old
Choose contractors who can invoice at closing—that way sellers can cover repairs without cash upfront
Avoid roofers who push unnecessary insurance claims
Use a local roofer with real estate experience—they’ll know what lenders and insurers are looking for
FAQs for Homebuyers
Q1: Should I get the roof inspected before buying?
A: Yes! Especially if it’s over 10 years old. An inspection can reveal hidden issues and help you make a smarter offer—or walk away if necessary.
Q2: Can the seller pay for a new roof at closing?
A: Definitely. Many reputable roofers in Columbus will work with sellers and get paid from escrow at closing.
Q3: What if the roof causes an issue during underwriting?
A: This is more common than you think. A fast, reliable roofer can make all the difference in keeping your deal on track.
Bottom Line: Roofing Isn’t Just Maintenance—It’s Strategy
If you’re buying a home in Columbus, don’t overlook the roof. With tighter insurance rules, stricter underwriting, and rising costs, roof condition can impact your entire transaction.
At Styer Real Estate Professionals, we help homebuyers connect with trusted local roofers who understand the timeline, documentation, and budget pressures that come with a real estate deal. Whether it’s a pre-closing inspection or a quick repair to keep things moving, we’ve got your back.
Ready to buy with confidence?
Let’s make sure your dream home has a solid roof—and a strong foundation for the future.