What should you do if your hail damage roof claim is denied?
Short answer. Get the denial letter, the adjuster's estimate and photos, and a written explanation of the reasons. Then have a qualified roofer re-inspect and document the hail evidence, request a reinspection in writing with that evidence, and if the dispute continues, consider appraisal for amount disputes, a complaint to the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner, or legal advice.
- Read the letter closely. Note the exact reason and the policy language cited. No hail damage observed, wear and tear, and below deductible each call for a different response.
- Request the file. Ask in writing for the estimate, photos, any engineer report, and the weather data used.
- Get a second look. A roofer who knows hail can run test squares on every directional slope, photograph bruises up close with a scale, and document soft metal dents.
- Gather storm proof. Hail reports for your address and date, your own storm day photos, and neighbors' roof claims. You can check past hail near you on the free North Georgia Hail Map.
- Ask for a reinspection. Send the evidence and request a reinspection, ideally with your roofer present.
- Escalate if needed. Ask for a supervisor. If the dispute is about the amount, look at appraisal. If it is about coverage and you believe the denial is unreasonable, consider a complaint to the Commissioner or an attorney.
Watch your deadlines
Policies set time limits for reporting claims and for filing suit, and a denial does not pause them. Check your policy's conditions and write the dates down.
Keep the evidence intact
Do not replace the roof before the insurer has had a fair chance to reinspect, unless you have no choice. If you must make emergency repairs, photograph everything first and keep damaged materials or samples.
When the denial is right
Sometimes a second inspection confirms an old, worn roof with little real hail damage. Then the better move is to plan a repair or replacement on your own terms instead of fighting. For the general framework, see what to do when a roof claim is denied.