Do I Have Hail Damage?
Hail damage accounts for a lot of the damage to roofs for hail storms in the Texas area. And it can lead to an expensive insurance claim. Nationwide, hail causes more than $1.6 billion in damage per year – just in roof damage – according to the Federal Alliance of Safe Homes. When a storm hits the San Antonio area, it may be difficult to see if the shingles on your roof have been damaged. However, there are some ways to determine if any damage has occurred.
Before we begin looking at how to determine and establish hail damage to the point of contacting a hail damage roof repair company like Apex Roofing, consider the following:
Myth: I looked at my roof and didn’t see any problems.
Fact: Roofing systems must be physically inspected by some one who has training and experience to determine if there is actual hail damage. A roofer is usually more knowledgable about this than the average homeowner or insurance adjuster.
Myth: I’m not missing any shingles so I must not have damage.
Fact: Missing shingles are related to wind damage claims and can happen during a hail storm if the winds are high enough. However, hail damage is insidious in nature and may not physically cause leakage for years after a hail storm.
Myth: I only have 1 year to file my insurance claim.
Fact: Many insurance companies do have a one year time limit and some even less, however due to the nature of hail damage they may pay claims past the deadline. This usually happens if a hail storm is widespread geographically.
Myth: My roof is new so it’s covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, home builder, or contractor.
Fact: Manufacturers often specifically name hail as an exclusion to their product warranty. Newer roofs can actually be more susceptible to hail damage versus older roofs due to the time it takes a new roof to cure from exposure to the elements.
Myth: I was told my roof has minimal or very little damage and therefore I don’t need to file a claim.
Fact: If your roof has any damage whatsoever, you have a valid insurance claim and should file with your insurance company. Damage might not cause your roof to leak for years. This is why it’s important to have a qualified person inspect your roof.
Myth: My insurance company will cancel my policy if I file a claim.
Fact: Most states prohibit insurance companies from cancelling policies for filing claims arising from severe weather related events.
Myth: If I don’t file my claim, my insurance company won’t raise my rates.
Fact: After a disaster, insurance companies may raise every one’s rates. By not filing your claim, your personal rate increase is paying for every one else’s damage except yours.
Do I have hail damage?
If your insurance company has denied your claim or paid less than your claim is worth, please contact us today.