Material Upgrade
The use of a higher-grade or different material than what was originally installed, either because the original is discontinued or because building codes require a better product.
What Is a Material Upgrade
A material upgrade occurs when the replacement material differs from or exceeds what was originally installed on the property. Material upgrades in insurance claims happen for two main reasons: the original material is no longer available, or building codes require a different product.
Discontinued Products
Roofing products are regularly discontinued by manufacturers. When the exact shingle, siding, or flashing product is no longer made, the policy's "like kind and quality" provision requires the carrier to pay for a comparable replacement. The closest equivalent may cost more than the original, and that cost difference is the carrier's responsibility.
Code-Required Upgrades
Building codes may require materials that exceed what was originally installed. For example, current code may require impact-resistant shingles in hail-prone areas where standard shingles were originally used. These upgrades are covered under the policy's ordinance or law provision.
Frequently asked questions
Insurance pays for 'like kind and quality' replacement. If the original material is discontinued, the carrier must pay for the closest available equivalent, which may cost more. Voluntary upgrades (choosing a better product when the original is available) are typically the homeowner's responsibility.
If the exact shingle is no longer manufactured, the carrier must pay for a comparable replacement product of similar quality. If the discontinued shingle cannot be matched on the undamaged portions of the roof, matching requirements may expand the scope.
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