The method behind the numbers
Each row uses straight-line depreciation — age divided by expected life — limited by the cap you choose. Carrier estimates may instead apply condition-based percentages, treat some items as non-depreciable (permits, debris removal) or depreciate labor differently, so expect differences of a few points either way.
Life expectancies that come up in New England estimates
| Item | Range often used |
|---|---|
| Architectural asphalt shingles | 25–30 years |
| Natural slate | 60–100+ years |
| Red or white cedar shingle siding | 25–40 years |
| Interior paint | 8–12 years |
| Oil or gas boiler | 20–30 years |
| Wall-to-wall carpet | 8–12 years |
Getting the holdback released
Policies typically release recoverable depreciation after repairs are complete, often within a set number of days. Send final invoices and photos of finished work, and put the date in the claim calendar builder so it doesn’t slip past.
About this calculator
Is depreciation on labor allowed?
It depends on the policy wording and evolving case law. Ask the carrier to explain in writing how labor was treated in your estimate.
What happens if I don’t rebuild?
Under most replacement cost policies you keep the ACV payment but may give up the held-back depreciation.
Why does slate depreciate so little?
Natural slate can last a century or more, so a few decades of age is a small share of its expected life.