Hail and Wind Damage Insurance Claims: A Roofer's Guide to Getting Paid

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Admin December 30, 2025 • 62 views
Hail and Wind Damage Insurance Claims: A Roofer's Guide to Getting Paid

Hail and Wind Damage Insurance Claims: A Roofer's Guide to Getting Paid

I have been a licensed roofing contractor for over 15 years. I have personally managed the repair or replacement of more than 2,000 roofs across Texas. I hold certifications from major shingle manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning. This experience comes from helping hundreds of homeowners navigate the confusing world of insurance claims after storms. This article exists because I have seen too many good people get short-changed by their insurance company. They miss damage, receive lowball estimates, or get their claim denied for simple paperwork errors. My goal is to give you the knowledge I share with my own customers. This information comes from real project files, conversations with insurance adjusters, and manufacturer installation guidelines. I will explain the exact process, show you what to look for, and give you the confidence to get a fair settlement for your damaged roof.

Understanding Hail and Wind Damage: What Insurance Actually Covers

Your homeowner's insurance policy is a contract. It covers "sudden and accidental" damage from specific perils, called "named perils." Hail and wind are almost always covered perils. However, insurance does not cover wear and tear or lack of maintenance. The key is proving the damage was caused by a specific storm event. Wind damage typically appears as missing, creased, or lifted shingles. Hail damage is more subtle. It looks like small, dark bruises or divots on the shingle's surface where the granules have been knocked off. This exposes the asphalt mat underneath to UV rays, causing premature aging. According to the Insurance Information Institute, wind and hail accounted for 39.1% of all insured catastrophe losses from 2017 to 2021. This shows how common these claims are.

How Insurance Adjusters Identify Valid Damage

An insurance adjuster looks for functional damage. Cosmetic damage alone may not be covered. Functional damage means the shingle's ability to shed water and protect your home is compromised. For example, a hail hit that removes granules over the sealant strip is functional damage. A hit in the middle of the shingle tab might be considered cosmetic. They will also check for collateral damage. This includes dented roof vents, cracked skylight covers, and damaged gutters. Always request they inspect all roof-mounted items. The adjuster will take many photos and write a detailed report called a "scope of loss." This document is the foundation of your claim.

The Step-by-Step Insurance Claim Process: From Storm to Check

The process can feel overwhelming. Breaking it down into clear steps makes it manageable. Your first step is safety. Do not go on your roof after a storm. Wait for calm weather and have a professional do the inspection. Document the date of the storm. Check local weather reports or hail maps from sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to confirm. Take ground-level photos of your property. Capture any visible damage to siding, windows, or landscaping. This creates a timeline. Then, contact your insurance company to file a "notice of loss." Be factual. Say, "I believe my roof sustained hail damage from the storm on [date]." Do not guess at the extent. Let the professionals assess it.

Why a Professional Roof Inspection is Critical

Before the insurance adjuster visits, hire a reputable local roofing contractor for a thorough inspection. A good roofer will provide a detailed report with photos. This report is your second opinion. It ensures you know the full extent of the damage before the insurance company makes its assessment. The adjuster works for the insurance company. Your contractor works for you. Having a professional on your side levels the playing field. They can point out damage the adjuster might miss and explain technical aspects of the repair. Choose a contractor with strong credentials, like being a GAF Master Elite or Owens Corning Platinum Contractor. These certifications require proper licensing, insurance, and a proven track record.

Decoding Your Insurance Estimate and Scope of Loss

The insurance company will send you an estimate. It is often generated by software like Xactimate. This document lists every item needed for the repair and assigns a price. It includes "line items" for removal of old shingles, disposal, underlayment, new shingles, flashing, and labor. It is crucial to review this closely. Common missing items include synthetic underlayment (better than felt), proper ice and water shield in valleys, and upgraded ventilation. The estimate also includes a depreciation holdback called "recoverable depreciation." For a roof over 10 years old, they pay you the Actual Cash Value (ACV) first. This is the replacement cost minus depreciation. After the work is complete, you submit the final invoice to get the recoverable depreciation released.

Negotiating for a Full and Fair Settlement

If the insurance estimate seems low, you can negotiate. This is where your contractor's detailed estimate is vital. Provide a line-by-line comparison. For example, if the insurance estimate allows for 3 squares of ridge cap but your roof needs 5, your contractor can show the math. If they omitted a damaged dormer, provide photos. Always communicate in writing. Email is perfect for creating a paper trail. Be polite but firm. Reference your policy language that states they will pay to return your property to a "like kind and quality" condition. Upgrading to a impact-resistant shingle, like those from Malarkey or CertainTeed, may require you to pay the difference. However, some insurers offer a discount for using these fortified products.

Choosing Materials and a Contractor for Your Insurance Job

You have the right to choose your own contractor. Do not feel pressured to use the insurance company's "preferred" vendor. Get at least three detailed bids. The bids should be based on the insurance scope of work. A suspiciously low bid often means the contractor will cut corners. Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation. Verify their license with your state's licensing board. Check online reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau. A good contractor will explain the pros and cons of different shingle types. For example, architectural shingles have better wind resistance and a longer warranty than basic 3-tab shingles. They should also follow the manufacturer's installation instructions exactly to keep the warranty valid.

Real Project Case Study: The Underestimated Valley

Last spring, a homeowner in Kingwood had an insurance estimate for a partial repair. The adjuster said only one slope was damaged. Our inspection found cracked and bruised shingles in both main valleys. Valleys channel huge amounts of water. Damaged valleys are a major leak risk. We provided close-up photos and cited the International Residential Code (IRC) section R905.2.8 on valley lining. We argued the entire intersecting roof planes needed replacement for a proper, warrantable repair. The insurance company reviewed our evidence and agreed. The settlement increased by $8,200, fully covering a complete roof replacement with proper ice and water shield in all valleys. The homeowner paid only their deductible.

Practical Tips from the Roof: A Contractor's Checklist

  • Act Quickly: Most policies have a time limit to file a claim, often one year from the date of loss.
  • Review Your Policy: Know your deductible and coverage limits before a storm hits.
  • Document Everything: Keep a file with all emails, reports, photos, and estimates.
  • Get Everything in Writing: Do not rely on verbal promises from adjusters or contractors.
  • Understand Depreciation: Ask your insurer how they calculate depreciation on your roof.
  • Do Not Sign Over Your Claim Check: Some contractors ask you to sign the insurance check over to them before work begins. Pay them directly upon completion.
  • Protect Your Mortgage Company: If you have a mortgage, the check may be co-payable to you and your lender. Contact them early to understand their endorsement process.

Frequently Asked Questions from Homeowners

Will filing a claim make my insurance rates go up?

Maybe. Insurance companies consider many factors. A single hail claim in an area where many homes were damaged may not affect your rate. However, multiple claims in a short period likely will. It is always best to discuss this directly with your insurance agent.

What if my roof is old? Will they still pay to replace it?

Yes, but they will depreciate the value. If your 20-year roof is 15 years old, they may depreciate it 75%. You get the depreciated value first, then the holdback after repair. The older the roof, the more you pay out-of-pocket toward your deductible and any upgrade costs.

The adjuster said it's just cosmetic damage. What can I do?

Request a re-inspection with your contractor present. Have your contractor point out specific functional damage. You can also hire an independent, licensed insurance adjuster to represent you. This is called a public adjuster, but they typically charge 10-15% of the settlement.

Can I repair just the damaged section?

Technically yes, but it is often not recommended. Matching old shingles is difficult. A patch repair may void the manufacturer's warranty on the remaining roof. It can also create uneven wear and be less aesthetically pleasing.

How long does the entire claims process take?

From filing to final payment, it typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. The timeline depends on the severity of the storm, your insurance company's workload, and how quickly you and your contractor provide documentation.

What is "code upgrade" coverage?

Building codes change. If your roof was built to an old code, bringing it up to current code (like needing more nails per shingle) may cost extra. Some policies include "ordinance or law" coverage for this. Check your policy details.

Should I get a completely new roof if I have damage?

If the damage is widespread (over 25-30% of one slope), a full replacement is usually the best long-term solution. It provides a uniform appearance, a new full-system warranty, and peace of mind. A partial repair is a temporary fix on an aging system.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Successful Claim

Dealing with roof damage is stressful. Navigating an insurance claim adds another layer of complexity. My hope is this guide gives you the confidence to advocate for your home effectively. Remember, you are not asking for a handout. You paid premiums for this exact coverage. Arm yourself with knowledge, partner with a trustworthy local contractor, and document every step. Do not be afraid to ask questions and challenge low estimates with facts and photos. A properly handled claim restores your home's protection and value. Your next step is to review your insurance policy today, before the next storm season. Know your coverage, your deductible, and have the contact information for a few highly-rated local roofers saved. Being prepared is the best defense.