Hail Damage

Hail causes a significant amount of roof damage across the country each year as well as widespread interior damages due to the roofs inability to prevent water from penetrating into the structure. Hailstorms in the Midwest, Texas, Colorado, and the central part of the United States typically produce hail that ranges in size from 1/4″ – 1/2″ on the low end, to 2-3″ on the high end.  Some storms have even produced hail that measured up to an astounding 7″.  In Florida, hail typically ranges in size from .25″ to golf ball sized hail; which is approximately 1.75″.  

Issues commonly raised by insurance companies during their investigation into whether a hailstorm actually caused damage (or not) includes but is not limited to (i) identifying the exact Date of Loss, (ii) determining if the damage was caused by hail or if it was caused by something else (that is typically not covered by your insurance policy), (iii) Functional vs. Cosmetic damage, and (iv) Repair vs. Replacement of the roof.  

Once you notify your insurance company of hail damage, they will assign a field adjuster to conduct a site inspection of your property.  After that, they will retain a roofing consultant or professional engineering firm to conduct further investigation into the hail damage claim.  It is important to note that virtually every insurance policy requires the insurance company to adjust losses with you, as opposed to adjusting the claim against your interest(s).  Take note if your insurer fails to ask for your input as to who should conduct the roof inspection.  An unfortunate reality is that the insurance company adjuster assigned to handle your file will inevitably choose a roofing consultant or engineering firm off a list of roofers and/or engineers that has already been pre-selected and pre-approved by your insurance company.       

Another thing to be aware of is that the roofing consultants and engineering firms on these pre-approved vendor lists typically generate a significant amount of revenue every year by performing these inspections for the insurance industry.  Given that, it is reasonable to question whether their opinions are subject to further scrutiny and/or whether they are biased ‘towards’ the insurance companies and ‘against’ the policyholder.  So, if your roof was damaged by hail, and then your insurer tells you that their investigation revealed little to no hail damage and/or that the damages are not covered by your policy, it is highly advisable to immediately get a second opinion from an independent, qualified, and unbiased roof consultant or professional engineer who has experience conducting forensic roof hail damage investigations.  Time is of the essence when it comes to hail damage claims.   

Contact our Hail Damage Attorneys Today 

Kubiak Law Group understands the law, your insurance policy language, and the rules and regulations as it pertains to hailstorm claims; and has the experience, knowledge, and resources required to fight insurance companies to protect your rights. 

We offer free consultations, same day return of calls and emails, and 24/7/365 availability. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and learn how we can help with your insurance claim.