How do you file a hail damage insurance claim?
Short answer. Confirm the storm date for your address, get the roof inspected and photographed, then report the claim to your insurer by phone, app or agent with the date of loss and a short description. Hail claims go best when you can show the hail size and the damage pattern: dented gutters, vents and air conditioner fins, spatter marks, and marked hits on each slope.
Step by step
- Pin down the date. Note when the hail fell. If you are not sure, check the hail history for your zip code on northgeorgiahailmap.com or NOAA's storm reports.
- Capture hail size. If you can do it safely, photograph hailstones next to a coin or ruler the day of the storm.
- Photograph ground-level evidence. Dents in gutters, downspouts, mailboxes and air conditioner fins; spatter marks on painted surfaces; shredded leaves; damaged screens. Shoot each side of the house.
- Get a roof inspection. A roofer documents hits on each slope with photos, often marked with chalk, plus damage to vents, flashing and skylights. This tells you whether the damage clears your deductible.
- Report the claim. Give the date of loss, say you have hail damage to the roof and exterior, and ask for an inspection. Write down the claim number.
- Meet the adjuster. Have your roofer there to point out damage and answer questions.
- Review the estimate. Check every slope, the ridge, vents, gutters and other structures. Ask for a supplement for anything missed.
- Complete the work and collect depreciation. On a replacement cost policy, submit the final invoice to release withheld funds.
Mistakes that weaken hail claims
- Guessing the wrong date.
- Waiting months while granules wash away and leaks start.
- Letting anyone repair or replace before the adjuster sees the damage.
- Signing a contract that gives a contractor control of the claim before you understand it.
More: the after-hail checklist, preparing for the adjuster and date of loss.