If you can knock off the moss and snap a few pics after, it might save you a headache later.
That’s pretty much what I do every spring—grab a stiff brush, knock off the green fuzz, and take a couple phone pics. Not glamorous, like you said, but it’s saved me from adjuster drama before. My neighbor skipped it for years and when hail hit, his claim got dragged out forever because of “pre-existing issues.” Honestly, it’s a pain, but cheaper than a denied claim or a new roof.
I get it, it’s a hassle dragging out the ladder every year, but skipping those checkups is just asking for trouble. I’ve seen moss eat through asphalt shingles way faster than people expect. Plus, insurance adjusters love to blame “neglect” if there’s any green stuff left up there. A little elbow grease now beats fighting with your insurer later.
Neglecting routine inspections really does open the door for claim denials, especially where moss or algae are visible. Insurers often cite “lack of maintenance” as a reason to reduce payouts, even after major storms. I’ve seen claims get cut in half just because of a little moss growth. It’s tedious, but documenting annual checkups—photos, receipts, even a quick written log—can make a huge difference if you ever need to file.
It’s tedious, but documenting annual checkups—photos, receipts, even a quick written log—can make a huge difference if you ever need to file.
I get what you’re saying about “lack of maintenance” being a favorite insurance excuse, but honestly, I’ve seen neighbors get full payouts even with some mossy patches. Maybe it depends on the adjuster? My roof’s got a little green fuzz and I’m not panicking yet… though I probably should be.
Maybe it depends on the adjuster? My roof’s got a little green fuzz and I’m not panicking yet… though I probably should be.
Honestly, I’ve wondered the same thing about adjusters. I’ve seen neighbors with way more visible wear get their claims approved, and others get denied over what seemed like minor stuff. Seems like there’s a lot of gray area. In my experience, the “maintenance” thing gets pulled out more when there’s an obvious pattern of neglect—like missing shingles or leaks that have been ignored for years.
I wouldn’t panic over some moss, especially if you’re in a damp climate where it’s pretty common. But I do try to keep photo records and receipts for any work, just in case. A few years back, I had to deal with hail damage, and having a folder of old roof photos actually helped my claim. The adjuster seemed to appreciate I’d been keeping up, even if my roof wasn’t spotless.
I guess it’s a mix of luck, paperwork, and maybe who you get on inspection day. If the moss isn’t causing damage or leaks, you’re probably okay, but it never hurts to have some proof you’re maintaining things.
