Hail damage insurance claim process

Two things to do before filing: document the damage thoroughly with date-stamped photos, and calculate your wind/hail deductible in dollars. If your repair estimate is near or below your deductible, filing may not make financial sense.

Claim deadlines vary by state — typically 1–2 years from the date of loss. You don't need to rush, but prompt documentation protects your rights.

Contact your insurer's claims line or file online through your policy portal. Have your policy number, date of storm, and photos ready. The insurer will assign an adjuster and schedule an inspection — typically within 5–10 business days.

An insurance adjuster will inspect your roof and produce an estimate using estimating software (typically Xactimate). Get an independent estimate from a licensed local contractor before or after this visit. You are entitled to a copy of the adjuster's estimate.

Common items missed by adjusters: code upgrade requirements, permit fees, matching shingle provisions, ice-and-water shield, and drip edge. These omissions are worth challenging.

If your contractor's estimate is higher than the adjuster's, your contractor can submit a supplement — additional line items that were missed or underpriced. This is standard industry practice and not adversarial. Most experienced roofers handle claim supplements routinely.

If you have an RCV policy, your insurer typically pays in two stages: the ACV amount upfront (replacement cost minus depreciation), then releases the depreciation holdback after the work is completed. Make sure to request the depreciation release after your roof is installed.

You can request a re-inspection, hire a public adjuster to represent you in the claims process, or file a complaint with your state's Department of Insurance. Public adjusters typically work on a percentage of the final settlement — typically 10–15%.