Will a hail damage claim raise my insurance rates, and how can I check?
Short answer. It might. Many insurers treat hail claims more gently than claims the homeowner caused, but a paid claim can remove a claims free discount or add a surcharge, and storm heavy regions see broad rate increases. You can check by comparing your renewal line by line, asking your agent what changed and why, and requesting your claims history report.
How to check what changed
- Compare renewal declarations. Look at the premium, discounts, deductibles and coverage limits side by side with last year's.
- Ask the agent for the reason. Was it a discount removed, a surcharge, a territory rate change, or a higher dwelling limit from inflation adjustment? Each has a different fix.
- Get your claims report. The consumer reporting agencies that maintain property claims histories (often called CLUE reports) must provide a free copy once a year on request under federal law. Check it for errors.
- Look for reduced coverage. Georgia requires insurers to send a separate NOTICE OF REDUCTION IN COVERAGE when they cut coverage at renewal.
What you can do about an increase
- Ask about roof credits. A new roof from the hail claim may qualify for better rating, and impact resistant shingles can earn discounts with many carriers.
- Adjust the deductible if you can comfortably carry more.
- Shop around with accurate information about your claim and your new roof.
- Complain if something seems improper. The Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner takes consumer complaints. See how to file a complaint.
For the broader picture, see does a roof claim raise premiums in Georgia.