Question: Will homeowners’ insurance cover roof damage from storms, hail, or wind?
Answer: Yes, homeowners’ insurance typically covers roof damage from sudden weather events like hail, wind, and falling trees—but only if you can prove the damage was caused by a covered peril, not normal wear and tear. Success depends on proper documentation, timing, and understanding your specific policy terms.
What Storm Damage Insurance Actually Covers
Most standard homeowners’ policies cover roof damage from these sudden weather events:
- Hail damage (any size, but golf ball-sized creates obvious claims)
- Wind damage from storms with speeds over 50-60 mph
- Falling trees or branches during storms
- Ice dam damage from rapid freeze-thaw cycles
- Lightning strikes that damage roofing materials
- Tornado or hurricane damage in covered areas
Coverage typically includes: Material replacement, labor costs, temporary repairs, and debris removal. Most policies also cover interior damage caused by roof leaks from covered storm events.
Important caveat: Your roof must have been in good condition before the storm. Insurance adjusters will look for pre-existing issues that could void your claim.
What Insurance Won’t Cover: Critical Exclusions
Understanding exclusions prevents claim denials and costly surprises:
Normal Wear and Tear:
- Granule loss from aging (typically after 15-20 years)
- Cracked or curled shingles from sun exposure
- Gradual leaks are developing over time
- Moss or algae growth damage
Maintenance-Related Issues:
- Damage from clogged gutters or poor drainage
- Problems from missing or inadequate flashing
- Leaks from unsealed penetrations (vents, chimneys)
- Structural issues from deferred maintenance
Policy-Specific Exclusions:
- Cosmetic damage that doesn’t affect function
- Damage below your deductible amount
- Secondary damage from uncovered perils
- Improvements beyond original specifications
How to Document Storm Damage Properly
Proper documentation makes the difference between claim approval and denial:
Immediate Steps (Within 24-48 Hours):
- Take photos from ground level of visible damage
- Document interior leaks with photos and videos
- Note the storm date and time with weather reports
- Cover exposed areas with tarps to prevent further damage
- Keep receipts for emergency repairs
Detailed Documentation:
- Photograph damage from multiple angles
- Include close-ups of specific problem areas
- Document any debris or impact marks
- Take “before” photos if available from recent home sales/inspections
- Record wind speeds and hail size from local weather reports
Professional Documentation: Schedule an inspection within 72 hours of the storm for optimal claim success rates.
The Professional Inspection Process
A qualified roofing contractor’s inspection strengthens your insurance claim significantly:
What Inspectors Look For:
- Impact marks on shingles, gutters, and vents
- Granule loss patterns consistent with hail damage
- Exposed mat or substrate indicating functional damage
- Structural damage to decking or support systems
- Secondary damage to flashing, skylights, and penetrations
Inspection Report Should Include:
- Detailed damage assessment with measurements
- Professional photos with explanatory notes
- Estimated repair/replacement costs
- Recommendations for temporary vs. permanent repairs
- Timeline for completion
Red Flag: Avoid contractors who offer to “eat your deductible” or guarantee claim approval—this is insurance fraud.
Understanding Your Policy’s Fine Print
Key policy details that affect storm damage coverage:
Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value:
- Replacement Cost: Pays the full amount to replace with similar materials
- Actual Cash Value: Pays replacement cost minus depreciation
- Difference: Varies on a typical roof replacement
Deductible Structure:
- Standard deductible: Varies
- Wind/hail deductible: Often 1-5% of the home’s insured value
- Hurricane deductible: Separate, higher amount in coastal areas
Coverage Limits:
- Maximum payout amounts for roofing materials
- Restrictions on upgrade allowances
- Limits on temporary living expenses during repairs
Timeline Considerations for Storm Damage Claims
Timing significantly impacts claim success:
Critical Deadlines:
- Report claims within 1 year of storm date (varies by state)
- Emergency repairs: Must be completed within 30-60 days
- Final repairs: Typically must begin within 365 days of approval
Optimal Filing Timeline:
- 0-72 hours: Document damage and contact the insurer
- 1-7 days: Professional inspection and estimate
- 7-14 days: File formal claim with all documentation
- 30-60 days: Adjuster inspection and settlement negotiation
Seasonal Considerations: Claims filed during peak storm season (spring/early summer) may face longer processing times due to volume.
Red Flags That Threaten Your Claim
Avoid these common mistakes that lead to claim denials:
- Delaying claim filing beyond reasonable timeframes
- Making major repairs before the adjuster inspection
- Accepting the first settlement offer without contractor review
- Using unlicensed contractors for claim-related work
- Failing to document the pre-storm roof condition
- Not disclosing previous roof repairs or claims
When to Call Insurance and Roofing Professionals
Contact your insurance company immediately if:
- Interior leaks develop after storms
- Neighbors are filing similar claims
- Local weather reports confirm damaging conditions
Contact roofing professionals for:
- Emergency tarping and temporary repairs
- Detailed damage assessments for insurance claims
- Independent estimates to compare with adjuster assessments
- Guidance on policy interpretation and claim strategy
Bottom Line: Your Claim Success Strategy
File a claim if:
- Storm damage is visible and functional (not just cosmetic)
- Estimated repairs exceed your deductible
- You can document the specific storm event
- Your roof was in good condition pre-storm
Don’t file a claim if:
- Damage is clearly from normal wear and tear
- Repair costs are close to or below your deductible
- You’ve filed multiple recent claims (rate impact risk)
- Damage is purely cosmetic with no functional impact
Your Next Steps for Storm Damage Claims
- Review your current policy to understand coverage limits and deductibles
- Document your roof’s current condition with photos for future reference
- Create a storm response plan with contact information for trusted contractors
- After any storm: Inspect immediately and document any visible damage
- Contact both your insurer and a qualified contractor within 72 hours of suspected damage
- Keep detailed records of all communications and expenses throughout the process
Success with insurance claims requires prompt action, proper documentation, and professional guidance to navigate the complex process effectively.