BLOG Can You Claim a New Roof on Your Taxes? What Homeowners Should Know Apr 23, 2025

Each year, tax season brings with it a flurry of paperwork, deadlines, and questions about what you can and can’t deduct. For many homeowners in Texas, one common question is: Can I claim a new roof on my taxes?

If you recently had a roof replacement in Baytown, Pasadena, Pearland, or nearby areas, or you’re considering one soon, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. While a new roof is a significant investment, understanding its potential tax implications can make the process even more beneficial.

Let’s break it all down—and don’t worry, we’ll include a reminder to speak with a tax professional (because we’re roofing pros, not tax pros!).

🏠 Is a New Roof Tax Deductible?

The short answer is: it depends.

A new roof is generally considered a home improvement—not a repair. And most home improvements are not immediately tax deductible. However, they can add long-term financial benefits, especially if you sell your home down the road or install energy-efficient roofing materials.

Let’s go over a few key scenarios where a new roof may offer tax advantages:

✅ 1. Capital Improvements and Home Sale Exclusions

According to the IRS, capital improvements are permanent improvements that increase your home’s value, extend its lifespan, or adapt it to new uses. A roof replacement typically qualifies.

While you can’t write off a new roof the year it’s installed, the cost of the roof can be added to your cost basis—essentially what you’ve invested in the home. When you sell your home, this higher basis could help you reduce your capital gains tax.

For example:

• You bought your home for $200,000.
• You invested $15,000 in a new roof.
• When you sell the home for $300,000, your adjusted basis is $215,000—so only $85,000 of the profit may be taxed.

In most cases, if you’ve lived in the home for at least 2 out of the last 5 years, you may be eligible for a capital gains exclusion of up to $250,000 ($500,000 for married couples)—which could make the gain non-taxable altogether.

Still, it’s a smart move to keep all documentation and receipts from your roofing project for future tax filings.

✅ 2. Energy-Efficient Roofing May Qualify for Tax Credits

If you installed a qualifying energy-efficient roof, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit under the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C).

As of 2023 and beyond, this credit includes up to 30% of the cost of qualified energy-efficient upgrades, including some roofing materials such as:

• Metal roofing with appropriate pigmented coatings
• Reflective asphalt shingles that meet ENERGY STAR® guidelines

However, this credit:

• Only applies to the materials cost, not labor or installation
• Is subject to an annual limit (often $1,200 total for energy efficiency improvements)

To qualify, the roofing material must meet specific energy efficiency criteria, and your contractor (like E & E Roofing) should be able to help identify qualifying options.

Be sure to:

• Request a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement
• Keep detailed records and receipts
• File IRS Form 5695 with your tax return

✅ 3. Rental or Business Use May Allow Deductions

If your roof replacement is for a:

• Rental property
• Home office used exclusively and regularly for business

…then you might be able to deduct some or all of the costs.

For rental properties, a new roof is considered a capital expense. Rather than deducting it all at once, you depreciate it over 27.5 years (residential) or 39 years (commercial).

For a home office, you can deduct a portion of home improvements if the area is used exclusively for business. This includes a percentage of roof expenses based on square footage.

Again—consult a tax professional to get this right.

❌ When You Can’t Claim a New Roof

While there are tax benefits in certain cases, there are limits too. Here’s when you likely can’t deduct a roof replacement:

• For personal use only with no energy-efficient materials
• If it’s a repair, like patching a small area, rather than a full replacement
• If you’ve already taken the standard deduction and your expenses don’t exceed it

💬 When in Doubt, Talk to a Tax Pro

We’re roofing experts, not CPAs. And while we can explain the general guidelines, your personal situation depends on many variables—so we always recommend speaking to a licensed tax preparer or accountant.

Still, if you're planning a roof replacement in Baytown, Pasadena, or Pearland, now is a great time to explore:

• Energy-efficient roofing options
• Documentation for your tax records
• Home improvement strategies that could benefit you long-term

🔧 Free Roof Estimates—Know Your Costs Before You File

If you’re considering a roof replacement, it’s wise to get an estimate now—especially if you’re thinking about filing for a tax credit or preparing for next year’s taxes.

At E & E Roofing and Exteriors LLC, we offer:

• ✅ Free roof inspections
• ✅ Detailed, honest estimates with no hidden fees
• ✅ Options for energy-efficient shingles and metal roofing
• ✅ Full assistance with warranty paperwork and documentation for your records

Whether you're dealing with an aging roof, storm damage, or just planning ahead, we’ll guide you through the best roofing solution for your home—and help you understand any potential tax benefits along the way.

📞 Schedule Your Free Roof Estimate Today

Don’t miss your chance to invest in a tax-smart home upgrade.

👉 Call 832-774-0884

👉 Visit www.eerooftx.com

👉 Serving Baytown, Pasadena, Pearland, and surrounding areas in Texas

Whether you’re planning for the next tax season or upgrading your home for peace of mind, E & E Roofing is here to help every step of the way.