How do hail damage siding insurance claims work?

Hail hits walls by direction

Hail falls at an angle driven by the storm's wind, so siding damage is usually concentrated on one or two sides of the house. The elevation facing the storm may be riddled while the opposite side is untouched. That pattern is strong evidence for the date and the storm, and it helps the adjuster trust the roof findings.

Documenting each wall

1. Photograph each elevation from a distance, then close up.
2. Shoot at a low angle with light raking across the surface; dents and cracks show up far better.
3. Circle hits lightly with chalk, which washes off, and photograph the marked areas.
4. Include window wraps, trim, shutters, light fixtures and the air conditioner on that side.
5. Find the product. Labels behind a panel, leftover siding in the garage, or a sample can show whether it is still made.

The matching problem

Vinyl colors fade and profiles are discontinued. Insurers commonly pay for the damaged elevation; whether they extend to adjoining walls depends on your policy and how visible the mismatch would be. A discontinued profile with no close match is the strongest argument for more.

Fiber cement and paint

Fiber cement often chips at edges and corners, and hail can break the paint film. Repairs may include caulking, spot replacement and repainting the wall so it matches.

Timing

Report siding with the roof claim. Adding it months later raises questions about which storm caused it.

More: matching on partial replacements, cosmetic exclusions and what adjusters look for.