The short answer
What Hail Damage Usually Covers
Hail damage to your roof, siding, windows, and gutters is typically covered under a standard homeowners policy. That includes the cost to repair or replace those parts of your home. If hail breaks a window and rain soaks your floors, the water damage from that leak is often covered too.
But coverage is not automatic. Your policy may have separate deductibles for wind and hail, and some policies exclude hail entirely in certain areas. You need to read your policy carefully or ask your insurance company directly. They decide what is covered based on the language in your contract.
Documenting the Damage
Before you call your insurer, take clear photos and videos of every damaged area. Show the hail dents on the roof, broken shingles, cracked windows, and any water stains inside. Write down the date and time of the storm. This evidence helps your claim move forward.
Also, keep receipts for any temporary repairs you make, like tarping a hole in the roof. Temporary fixes are your responsibility to prevent further damage, and they are often reimbursable. Do not throw away damaged materials until your insurer has seen them.
- Photograph the roof from multiple angles
- Video the interior water stains and wet spots
- Note the storm date and approximate hail size
- Keep receipts for tarps, plywood, and other temporary fixes
- List every damaged item, from shingles to electronics
Water Damage After Hail
When hail creates a hole in your roof, rain can pour in and soak ceilings, walls, and floors. That water damage is often covered under your policy because it is a direct result of the hail. However, your insurer may argue that you failed to prevent further damage if you did not act quickly.
Act fast to dry out wet areas and remove soaked carpets or drywall. This limits mold growth, which is a separate issue that your policy may not cover. If mold appears, you may need a mold professional. The pros can help with water extraction and drying. Your insurance company handles any claim you file.
What to Do After a Hailstorm
First, make sure everyone is safe and check for gas leaks or electrical hazards. If you smell gas or see sparks, leave the house and call the utility company. Then, document the damage as described above. If you live in Euless, keep your insurance policy documents handy for quick reference.
Next, contact your insurance company to start a claim. They will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. While you wait, take steps to prevent further water intrusion, such as tarping the roof. Do not start major repairs until the adjuster has seen the damage, unless it is an emergency.
When You Might Not Be Covered
Some policies exclude hail damage if you have not maintained your roof. For example, if your roof was already leaking before the storm, your claim may be denied. Also, if you have a separate wind and hail deductible, you may pay a higher amount out of pocket before coverage kicks in.
Flood damage from hail-related rain is not the same as hail damage. Standard policies do not cover flooding, so if water enters from the ground, you might need separate flood insurance. Check your policy to see what it says about flooding. The pros can assess the water damage, but they cannot tell you what your policy covers.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Euless and nearby communities.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to file a hail damage claim?
Most policies require you to file within a year of the storm, but some allow less time. Check your policy or ask your insurance company. Acting quickly is wise because delays can make it harder to prove the damage came from that specific hailstorm.
Does hail damage to my car count?
Car damage is handled under your auto insurance, not your homeowners policy. Comprehensive coverage usually pays for hail dents and broken windows. Check your auto policy for your deductible. Your home policy does not cover your car, even if it is parked in your driveway.
Can I claim hail damage if I have an older roof?
Yes, but your insurer may reduce the payout based on the roof's age. Many policies use actual cash value, which subtracts depreciation. That means you might receive less than the full replacement cost. Review your policy to see if it covers replacement cost or actual cash value.