If a hail storm recently damaged your property, it can be very important to know how to file a hail storm insurance claim. Here’s a quick guide:
Unfortunately, hail can do a lot of damage to buildings, which can mean expensive repairs. Especially for roofs, Making an insurance claim for hail damage is an important step that helps property owners get their money back after these losses. Understanding the essentials of Homeowners Insurance and Comprehensive Coverage is the first step towards a successful insurance claim.
Many insurance policies cover hail damage. If you know how to file a claim correctly, you can save a lot of time and make sure you get enough money to pay for the repairs. The point of insurance is to get your property back to how it was before the damage happened without putting too much financial stress on you, the policyholder. Therefore, being thoroughly prepared for the claims process is essential.
Dealing with hail damage can be a frustrating and confusing process When those golf ball-sized chunks of ice pelt your home, the financial implications can be significant According to the Insurance Information Institute, hailstorms cause over $15 billion in damage each year in the United States.
If your home suffers hail damage, you’ll likely need to file an insurance claim to recoup repair costs The good news? Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover hail damage However, the claims process itself involves many steps. Knowing what to expect can give you confidence to file your hail damage claim properly.
In this article, we’ll walk through the necessary steps to file a hail damage insurance claim, select the right contractor, and get your roof and home back in top shape after a storm.
Document the Hail Damage Thoroughly
The first step is to thoroughly document the hail strike damage. Wait until it is safe, then go outside and take plenty of photos of dents, dings, and other exterior damage.
Zoom in on the specific problem areas—especially the roof. Look for missing or cracked shingles, damage to vents or skylights, and exposed nail heads. Also photograph siding, windows, screens, fences, and AC units.
If possible, use a tape measure to estimate the size of the hail. Don’t climb on the roof yourself, but visually inspect and photograph it from the ground with binoculars if needed.
Save copies of local weather reports confirming hail Some homeowners even save a few of the large hailstones in their freezer or refrigerator in zip top bags All this documentation will come in handy when you file your insurance claim.
File Your Hail Damage Claim Promptly
Contact your insurance company promptly to begin a claim. Many insurers have mobile apps to make this process simple. Whether you start the claim online, via an app, or over the phone, provide details on when the hail storm occurred and the scope of damage.
Your insurance provider may ask questions to ensure it meets the criteria for a covered claim. For example, they will want to confirm that a hail storm did indeed cause damage in your specific area on the reported date.
Once you submit the claim, an insurance adjuster will call you to schedule a time to inspect the property damage firsthand. They will examine your home to confirm that hail caused the damage and determine the scope and cost of repairs needed.
Get Multiple Repair Estimates
While you wait for the insurance adjuster appointment, start calling local contractors to get repair estimates. Look for companies that specialize in hail damage repair. Get quotes from at least three reputable contractors.
The contractors will examine your roof, siding, windows, and other areas. Have them document all damage they discover, as well as provide a detailed, written estimate for the cost to repair your home.
If you can, try to get at least one repair estimate before the scheduled meeting with the insurance adjuster. This gives you an idea of expected costs when the adjuster makes their own assessment. Just don’t sign any actual repair contracts yet.
Ask a Contractor to Attend the Insurance Inspection
If possible, ask one of the contractors you trust to attend the scheduled adjuster inspection at your home. This allows the contractor to voice any concerns directly to the adjuster on the spot. It helps ensure the adjuster’s damage assessment is comprehensive and their cost estimate is fair.
Provide the adjuster with all the documentation you gathered—your damage photos, contractor repair estimates, and information on the date and severity of the hail storm. The adjuster will examine the exterior, document damage, and write up an official report to submit to the insurance company.
Review the Insurance Company’s Settlement Offer Carefully
After the insurance adjuster visit, your insurance company will make a claim settlement offer based on the information in the report. Review this offer carefully. Make sure it aligns with the repair estimates from your contractors.
If the insurance settlement seems too low, contact the adjuster immediately to discuss. Have your contractor speak directly with the adjuster to point out any missing damage or underestimated costs. Get the adjuster back out to reassess if needed.
You can even hire an independent adjuster for a second opinion. They will write their own report and help you negotiate a higher settlement from the insurance company. Hiring a public adjuster or attorney is also an option if the claim value is disputed.
Select a Reputable Local Contractor
Once the insurance claim value is finalized, you can move ahead with repairs. Your insurer may provide some recommended contractors, but you get to choose who to hire. Make sure to select a trustworthy local company.
Check that the contractor is fully licensed in your state. Look online for reviews and ask for references to contact. Meet with the contractor in person and make sure you feel comfortable with their team handling the repairs.
A reputable hail damage contractor should have availability within a reasonable timeframe. They’ll also take the time to fully explain your roof and siding replacement options.
Understand How Your Claim Payout Will Work
There are several ways your hail damage claim payout may be handled:
- You may receive an upfront partial payment with the rest issued after completion.
- If you have an outstanding mortgage, funds may need to go through your lending bank first.
- Your insurer may offer or require to pay the contractor directly. Make sure you’re comfortable with the payment arrangement.
- For extensive damage, you may get multiple checks for home repairs and temporary living expenses.
Ask your insurance provider to explain the specific payout process for your hail damage claim. Make sure to get all payment details in writing.
Allow the Contractor to Begin Exterior Repairs
Once insurance payment is issued, the contractor can start work on your home’s exterior repairs. This typically involves roof and siding replacement. Make sure to be available for any questions during the project.
Monitor progress to ensure the contractor is doing quality work and following the agreed-upon scope. Have them walk you through the completed repairs and address any concerns before final payment.
Review & Pay Contractor Invoices
Your contractor will invoice you according to the agreed payment schedule. Review invoices closely before paying to ensure they match the approved pricing and percentages completed.
For insurance reimbursement, you’ll need to submit copies of paid invoices to your provider showing the work has been completed. Make sure the insurer’s final payment(s) align with the contractor invoices and the total claim settlement.
A Few Final Hail Damage Claim Tips
To recap, here are a few final tips for getting the best outcome from your hail damage insurance claim:
-
Act quickly to document damage and file the claim. Hail damage can worsen rapidly.
-
Research reputable local contractors and get multiple repair estimates.
-
Have a contractor you trust attend the insurance inspection if possible.
-
Don’t be afraid to negotiate if the claim settlement seems too low.
-
Take your time selecting the right contractor and make sure you understand how claim payouts work.
-
Inspect repairs thoroughly before final payment and invoice submission.
Dealing with the aftermath of hail damage can be a long process, but knowing what to expect will give you confidence during your claim. With an experienced contractor and strategic insurance claim filing, your home can be restored back to normal in no time.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Next, report the damage to your insurance company. Provide them with the date of the storm and your policy number. This initial contact is crucial in starting your claim process.
Remember to: – Notify your insurer as soon as you notice the damage. – Keep your policy number handy. – Note down and save the details of the person you speak with.
Take clear photos and videos of all the damage. Document everything, no matter how small. This proof is important for your claim and helps make sure you don’t lose your insurance because of damage that wasn’t documented.
Tips for documentation: – Use timestamps on photos and videos. – Include a common object in the s for scale. – Capture multiple angles and aspects of the damage.
Understanding your policy’s details, such as deductibles, co-payments, and coverage limits, is crucial. This knowledge will help you understand what financial responsibilities you might face and what damages are covered.
Action points: – Read your policy thoroughly. – Highlight or note key coverage and exclusion clauses. – Prepare questions for your insurer if any part of the policy is unclear.
Contact a Local Roofer
First, have a trusted local roofer inspect your damage. They can give you a detailed report on how bad the damage is, which is important for your insurance claim. Make sure the roofer checks for collateral damage that might not be immediately apparent.
Key steps: – Schedule an inspection as soon as possible. – Ensure the roofer checks all aspects of your roof and any related home areas. – Get a written report detailing the findings.
How to File an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage
FAQ
How long do you have to claim hail damage on a car in Colorado?
What is the time limit for hail damage insurance claims in Texas?
What is the time limit for hail damage insurance claims in Oklahoma?
Does home insurance cover hail damage?
Hail damage is covered by your home insurance, but you must meet your deductible. Make temporary repairs, document the damage and call your insurance carrier’s claims number to start your claim. Work with the insurance adjuster and reputable contractors to ensure the claims process goes smoothly. How does a hail damage claim work?
How do I file a claim after a hail storm?
After a hail storm, call your insurance company to file a claim right away. Many insurance companies have a 24-hour hotline, and you can usually also file claims online or via their mobile apps. These are the steps you need to follow: Call the insurance company right away to notify them of your damage and to start the claim.
How do I manage a hail damage insurance claim?
Effectively managing a hail damage insurance claim process begins with properly recognizing the signs of hail damage. The severity of hail damage can vary greatly depending on several factors such as hail size, wind speed and direction, and the type of materials damaged. Roof damage is the most common type of damage during a hailstorm.
What happens after a hail claim is submitted?
After your claim is submitted, your insurer will process it. Processing time differs based on the company you’re working with. After the claim has been processed, you’ll be assigned an adjuster, who will visit your home and inspect the roof to ensure the hail is what caused the damage.