With storm season approaching in Texas, it’s time to talk about roof insurance. Homeowners often ask if insurance covers hail damage.
Here’s the good news: Most standard homeowners’ insurance will cover hail damage to your roof and other parts of your home.
Hail damage claims are actually quite common. Texas leads the nation in hail damage insurance claims, with more than four times the number of claims of the next leading state.
Today, we’re going to look at the three steps you, a homeowner, should take after a hailstorm to make sure you get the insurance money you deserve.
In brief, they are:
- Inspect your home for hail damage
- Get a professional roof inspection
- Get an inspection report.
Step #1: Inspect your home for hail damage.
So, you’ve been hit by a hailstorm. You’ll want a professional to visit your property to initiate the claims process, but it’s still beneficial to inspect the outside of your home first.
However — and I can’t emphasize this enough — don’t go on your roof. Unless you’re a professional, the risk of structural damage makes it too dangerous.
Can you see any hail damage from the ground?
What does hail damage look like? Random dents or dings to shingles, vents, and gutters count as roof damage from storms.
Since you shouldn’t go onto your roof, check the other areas that may have been impacted. Inspect your gutters for signs of damage, and your attic for signs of leaks.
Keep in mind that other types of damage can be mistaken for hail. Sun exposure, for example, makes shingles brittle and aged.
As few as five or six impact marks can qualify you for compensation from your insurer.
Maybe you only spot one instance of hail damage, and you’re not sure about the rest. In this case, consider the severity of the storm.
Have your neighbors’ roofs sustained damage? What about cars and sheds?
If you’re unsure, move on to the next step in the process.
Step #2: Get a professional roof inspection.
An experienced contractor can accurately assess the extent of the damage and ensure it is properly documented with photos. They’ll also advocate for you throughout the process and handle your insurance claim.
Don’t wait to hire a contractor.
Insurers may give you anywhere from 30 days to one year to file a claim after a hailstorm. Err on the safe side by contacting a roofing professional as soon as you find damage.
Step #3: Get an inspection report.
After a professional inspection, your contractor will create a detailed roof inspection report, documenting the damage with photos, notes, and an estimate. You’ll use this report to file your insurance claim.
You may also need an ITEL report.
ITEL is a third-party company that provides an objective evaluation of your roof’s condition and materials. Certain contractors, such as Juno Construction, have a good working relationship with ITEL and can handle the paperwork for you.
A proper report is necessary for roof repairs or replacement that matches or exceeds the quality of your current roof. In general, you will save yourself time and a headache by going with a qualified contractor.
Contact Juno Construction for help with your roof.
We know how to work with insurance companies to get you the best possible compensation for your hail-damaged roof with high-quality repair and replacement.
Contact us today for a free quote, roof inspection, and insurance claims assistance.
