The Question Everyone Asks
You just filed a claim for storm damage on your roof, and now you’re wondering—will my insurance rates go up after a claim? It’s one of the most common questions homeowners ask, and for good reason.
The short answer? Maybe. But not necessarily for the reasons you think.
Have Insurance Rates Ever Gone Down?
Let’s rip the Band-Aid off—insurance rates rarely go down. Even if you’ve never filed a claim in your life, your premiums may still creep up year after year. Why?
Insurance is a pooled system. That means your rates are affected by what happens around you—your zip code, your state, even your neighbor’s claim. So if a big hailstorm swept through your area, your premiums may increase whether or not your house took a hit.
Even if your roof survived without a scratch, insurers might still increase your premium based on how much they paid out to others nearby. It doesn’t feel fair, but it’s how risk modeling works in the industry.
When’s the Last Time You Filed a Claim?
If you’ve filed multiple claims in a short span of time, that can absolutely flag you as a higher-risk customer in the eyes of insurers. Most companies look at a 5–7 year claim history. If your recent roofing claim is your first in a decade? You’re probably fine. But if you’ve made two or three in the last few years, expect some changes to your premium—or possibly a non-renewal notice.
Filing a claim doesn’t always mean automatic penalties, but it can add to a pattern. The more claims you file, especially in a short timeframe, the more insurers see you as someone likely to file again.
Why Weather Events Affect Entire Zip Codes
Here’s something most people don’t realize: insurance companies base their rates on risk at a geographic level. So when a major storm rolls through and damages hundreds of homes in your zip code, it affects the rates for everyone in that area—not just those who filed a claim.
That’s why your premiums can rise even if you didn’t report any damage. It’s also why many homeowners feel penalized for living in storm-prone regions.
According to The Insurance Information Institute, weather-related disasters have caused over $100 billion in insured losses annually in recent years—and insurers are adjusting rates accordingly. These widespread losses push insurers to recoup costs not only from claimants, but from entire zones labeled high-risk.
What Changed in Missouri?
Here’s where things get even more interesting (and frustrating).
For years, Missouri had consumer protections that capped how much insurance companies could raise rates after a claim. But in 2023, that cap was removed. The result? Insurance companies now have far more flexibility to adjust rates based on local risk and market pressures.
That legislative shift has played a huge role in why rates have jumped, especially in storm-prone areas like St. Louis, St. Charles, and surrounding counties. According to a St. Louis Post-Dispatch report, insurers lobbied for these changes to keep pace with increased weather damage and claim costs, but homeowners are the ones footing the bill.
The 21% Jump (and What’s Behind It)
On average, Missouri homeowners have seen insurance premiums increase by around 21% over the last two years, according to recent data published by Policygenius. That’s one of the sharpest spikes in the nation.
And here’s the kicker—it’s not all due to storms. Rising construction costs, inflation, labor shortages, and changes in state regulations have also played major roles. Insurance companies are facing higher rebuild costs when homes are damaged, and they’re adjusting their pricing to reflect those risks.
So, even if your roof didn’t take on damage in the last storm, your policy might still go up due to increased payout potential. Combine that with more flexibility for rate hikes, and you’ve got a recipe for sticker shock at renewal time.
Insurers are also adapting to updated risk models that predict more frequent and more intense weather events. With fewer restrictions on how they adjust rates, Missouri providers have been quick to respond with steeper increases.
Need Assistance with Your Claim?
Brody Allen Exteriors can help guide you through the process and ensure your roof is repaired to the highest standards. Many of your neighbors have successfully navigated their insurance claims with our expert assistance.
Should You Still File a Claim?
Absolutely—if the damage is significant. That’s what insurance is for. But if the damage is minor and falls near your deductible, it may be worth getting a professional inspection and discussing your options first.
Things to consider:
- Will the repair cost significantly exceed your deductible?
- Has your roof already aged enough to justify a replacement?
- Will waiting cause further damage?
A reputable roofing company (like us!) will inspect your roof, document damage, and give honest feedback. That way, you can make an informed decision before going to your insurer.
Some insurers even offer free consultation calls or rate previews before officially filing a claim—take advantage of that if you’re unsure. And remember: cosmetic damage may not be worth filing for, but anything that compromises your roof’s ability to protect your home definitely is.
The Bottom Line
Your rates might go up, but not always because you filed a claim. Sometimes it’s because your neighbor did. Or because storms are more frequent. Or because the law changed.
That’s the reality of insurance today—it’s less about what happened to you and more about what’s happening around you. While frustrating, it also means that filing a legitimate claim shouldn’t be a source of guilt or fear.
Protecting your home should always come first. And the best way to avoid surprises is to stay informed, ask questions, and work with trustworthy professionals who put your best interests first.
Final Thoughts
The insurance system isn’t always easy to navigate. But one thing’s for sure—leaving roof damage unaddressed can cost you far more in the long run than a potential bump in your premiums.
Not sure what to do next? We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the roofing + insurance maze.
Check out more helpful tips on the Brody Allen Exteriors Learning Center or reach out for a free inspection. We’ll take a look, give you honest answers, and help you feel confident in your next steps.
Stephen Maassen
MISSOURI'S BEST
Roofing Professionals You Can Trust
When you choose Brody Allen Exteriors, you're choosing a team that's dedicated to protecting Missouri homes. We live and work in this community, and we're here to ensure your roof is strong, durable, and built to last.
