​If you’ve opened your mail recently and found a "Notice of Non-Renewal" from your home insurance provider, you aren't alone. In 2026, the Illinois insurance market has reached a tipping point. Carriers are no longer just raising premiums, they are dropping homeowners entirely based on one single factor: The age of the roof.

At Stan’s Roofing & Siding, we are seeing a record number of "Panic Calls" from neighbors in Orland Park and Naperville who have been given 30 days to replace their roof or lose coverage. Here is what is happening and how to protect yourself.

1. The "15-Year Rule" is the New Standard

Just a few years ago, a 20-year-old roof was considered "getting up there." In 2026, many Illinois insurers have moved that line to 15 years. Thanks to advanced satellite imagery and AI-driven drone inspections, insurance companies now know the condition of your shingles before you do. If they see granular loss or minor curling, they view it as a "pre-existing liability."

2. The Rise of the 1% Wind/Hail Deductible

Even if you keep your policy, many Illinois carriers (including State Farm and Allstate) have moved to a mandatory 1% Wind/Hail Deductible. * What this means: If your home is insured for $500,000, your deductible for storm damage is now $5,000, regardless of what your "standard" deductible is. This makes it more important than ever to choose a high-performance shingle that can actually withstand a Midwest hail storm.

3. Why Cedar is Becoming "Un-Insurable"

For our neighbors in the North Shore and high-end DuPage suburbs, the "Cedar Crisis" is real. Insurers are now viewing natural wood shakes as a fire and moisture risk. We are helping dozens of homeowners transition to Synthetic Slate or Shakes (like DaVinci), which keep the luxury look but carry a Class 4 Impact Rating that insurance companies actually reward with lower premiums.

How to Avoid a Cancellation Notice

Don't wait for the letter to arrive. Take these three steps today:

  1. Get a "Policy-Ready" Inspection: We provide a documented 15-point inspection that you can send to your agent to prove your roof is in good health.

  2. Verify Your Attic: As we mentioned in our [Ventilation Guide], if your attic is "cooking" your shingles, they will look 20 years old when they are only 10.

  3. Upgrade to Impact-Resistant Materials: In 2026, a "Class 4" rating is the secret to keeping your insurance affordable.

Has your insurance company sent you a warning? Give us a call at (708) 448- 4100. We’ll help you navigate the paperwork and keep your home protected.