Hail Damage Insurance Claim Attorneys
If you were referred by a trusted friend or found us through HailstormAttorney.com, it’s probably because you have been let down by your insurance company and are dealing with a denied insurance claim.
As a Texas property owner, you’re no stranger to the destructive power of severe storms. The aftermath of wind and hail damage can leave you feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable.
At The Hodge Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the emotional and financial toll these events can take. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the complex process of insurance claims, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve to restore your property through a successful property damage claim and regain peace of mind.
If you’re impacted by a denied or unpaid claim, your path to justice begins here:
Wind And Hail Property Damage Statistics
The National Weather Service reports that severe hail reports of ≥ 2 inches have risen steadily since the 1960s, from about 10 annually then to nearly 20 by the 1990s, reaching 65 to 74 events per year in the early 2000s. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) logged 6,962 hail events in 2023, with 5,373 in 2024.
In 2023 alone, hail caused over $10 billion in damages nationwide. As these storms grow more intense, insurers have tightened their policies. State Farm reported a rise from 23,200 to 27,300 hail claims between 2022 and 2023, with payouts skyrocketing to $6.1 billion. However, in 2024, nearly 47% of home insurance claims in Texas were closed without payment, up from 35% in 2016 and exceeding the national average of 42%.
With the growing gap between actual damage and insurer payouts, it is critical to have experienced legal support. Our firm stands up to the insurance companies and fights for the full coverage our clients deserve.
Why Are Hail and Wind Damage Insurance Claims Denied?
Insurance companies deny wind and hail damage claims for numerous reasons, many of which are avoidable with proper preparation and knowledge:
- Preexisting damage/condition: If the insurer suspects the damage existed before the storm, your claim might be denied, resulting in a denied hail damage claim. Keeping photos or inspection reports from before the storm can help counter this.
- Lack of maintenance: Damage to roofs or exteriors that stems from poor upkeep may not be covered. Insurers may argue that the issue was preventable and not storm-related.
- Late filing: Most policies require prompt reporting. Waiting too long to report can result in a denied claim, even with legitimate damage.
- Insufficient documentation: Without photos, written estimates or inspection records, your insurer may question the extent or cause of the damage.
- Policy exclusions: Some homeowners are surprised to learn that wind or hail damage is only partially covered or not covered at all, depending on their policy.
Many insurance companies deny legitimate claims and instead offer excuses to try to get out of paying for the covered damage. These challenges make it critical to work with an attorney when filing or appealing an insurance claim, especially when dealing with hail damage insurance claims. Legal guidance can protect your rights and help ensure you are treated fairly by the insurer.
Common Types Of Wind And Hail Damage To Homes And Businesses
Below are some of the most common types:
- Roof damage: Hailstones can dent, crack or puncture roofing materials, often leading to roof hail damage claims
- Windows and skylights: These often shatter during storms, creating safety risks and allowing water to enter the property.
- Siding and walls: Hail can chip paint or punch holes in siding, while wind can rip panels off or drive debris into exterior walls.
- Gutters and drainage systems: Damage here can disrupt water flow and lead to leaks or flooding around the foundation.
- Outdoor HVAC and roof vents: These can be crushed or dented, reducing performance or causing system failure.
Because some damages may not be obvious right away, it is wise to consult a property damage attorney who can coordinate inspections, communicate with your insurer, and help you pursue the compensation you are owed.
Stand Up For Your Rights. Time To Fight Back
Oftentimes, insurance companies have a financial incentive to deny your claim or to minimize the damages, resulting in underpaid insurance claims. Insurance companies often utilize “independent adjusters” to come out and evaluate your damages. Make no mistake about it, the adjusters the insurance company sends out to inspect your loss are anything but “independent”.
There is an inherent conflict of interest in the fact that the insurance company that owes you the money is telling you how much they owe. It is important to bring in a team of experienced advocates that just represent you as the policyholder. The Hodge Law Firm has a team of highly experienced expert witnesses, including engineers, contractors, and damage consultants that can inspect and properly document your damages and navigate your insurance policy coverages to ensure you get the maximum recovery owed under the policy.
Cosmetic Damage Exclusions
Insurance companies have started inserting “cosmetic damage” exclusions into insurance policies. These exclusions are often not properly explained or disclosed to you, the policyholder. These exclusions change your insurance policy’s coverage, so “cosmetic damages” are not covered. The exclusions are often found on properties that have metal roof coverings. The exclusion is often written in a misleading way to mislead and trick the policyholder into thinking there is no coverage for their damage under the policy.
The Hodge Law Firm has a team of highly qualified construction experts that document the damages to prove that the policyholder didn’t suffer “cosmetic damage” but instead suffered actual direct physical loss or damage and thus should be covered under the terms of the insurance policy.
Misrepresentations And Bad Faith
Some insurance companies and adjusters engage in a practice of intentionally and knowingly misrepresenting the terms of the insurance policy and the amount of damages you are owed under the policy. Any misrepresentations and lies by the insurance company must be called out and documented through hard facts and evidence. We have a team of experienced trial attorneys who can document and establish any misrepresentations and hold the insurance company accountable for any misrepresentations or acts of bad faith insurance practices.
Storm Damage: A Regional Hazard
Especially in the Gulf Coast region where our law offices are, the potential for wind, hail and hurricane damage is a yearly cause for concern.
In the Galveston area alone, countless homeowners and commercial property owners have had to arrange for significant repairs at least once. Some have rebuilt using more storm-resistant materials and designs after major losses. We can see the results when we drive through town and witness how many properties along the coastline are now built on stilts, out of the range of floods.
Many properties have permanent storm shutters attached to them so that windows can be protected during hailstorms and derechos (strong straight-line winds). However, even with these precautions, properties are often damaged by powerful winds and destructive hail.
What We Have To Offer
We offer you the opportunity to have one of our lawyers review your case at no charge. Please bring photos of the damage to your property to your initial consultation, if relevant. One of our attorneys can go over the facts, your concerns, and your options, including:
- The type of damage: Is it visible or likely hidden? Is it superficial – such as loose shingles – or structural, such as having your home’s frame knocked off its foundation?
- How the damage happened: Was your property damage caused by wind, water, flying debris, falling trees, or vandals taking advantage of an open wall after a storm?
- Steps you may need to take: Do you need a first inspection or a second-opinion inspection? Or do you need a lawyer to go to bat for you, accompanied by a qualified roofer (for example)?
- Difficulties you have already encountered with an insurance damage claim: Is your insurer unresponsive? Are representatives acknowledging but minimizing the damage through the company’s estimate? Are there coverage questions made worse by the companies’ questionable interpretation or terms in your policy?
Frequently Asked Questions On Wind And Hail Property Damage
Hail and windstorms can cause serious property damage, sometimes without you noticing immediately. Understanding how your homeowner’s insurance works and what signs to look for after a storm can help you act fast and protect your home.
Which part of my property is most vulnerable to hail?
The roof is usually the most vulnerable part of your home during a hailstorm. Asphalt shingles, tiles, and even metal roofing can suffer dents, cracks, or loss of granules. Other exposed areas like skylights, siding, gutters, windows and outdoor HVAC units are also at high risk.
Are there separate deductibles for damage caused by hail?
Yes, many insurance policies have separate deductibles for wind and hail damage. These are often calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount. It is important to check your policy, so you are not caught off guard when filing a claim.
How long after a hailstorm can I make an insurance claim?
Most insurance companies give you up to 12 months to file a claim for hail damage, but it can vary by policy. Some policies state you must “timely” or “promptly” file a claim after the damage occurs. It is best to file as soon as possible, especially because delays can make it harder to prove the damage was caused by the storm.
How do I know if my property has suffered wind and hail damage?
Signs of damage include:
- Damaged shingles, including torn, missing, and creased shingles. Shingles can also become damaged by the forces of wind, causing the shingles to break their watertight seal (called left or unadhered shingles).
- Dents in gutters or downspouts
- Broken windows or window seals
- Water stains on ceilings
- Debris around your yard
A professional roof inspection is often needed to detect less obvious damage that could lead to leaks or structural issues.
Does homeowners’ insurance cover hail and wind damage?
Yes, most standard homeowners’ insurance policies cover wind and hail damage, including to your roof, siding and windows. However, coverage can depend on your location and the terms of your policy, so it is a good idea to review your plan with your insurer or an attorney.
What are the top states for hail?
The states most affected by hail each year are located in a region known as “Hail Alley,” where weather patterns favor frequent and severe hailstorms. These states include:
Texas consistently ranks number 1 for the number of hail events and the resulting damage cost. Outside of Hail Alley, other states like Missouri, Illinois, and South Dakota have seen increased hail activity in recent years.
Will my insurance go up if I claim hail damage?
Hail is often classified as an Act of God or a catastrophic event, meaning it is a natural event outside your control. For this reason, your insurance premiums should not go up solely because you filed a hail claim.
However, if your area sees frequent claims or your insurer re-evaluates risk levels, premiums may rise over time regardless of individual claims. Reviewing your policy and discussing your options with an attorney is important to understand your rights and avoid being unfairly penalized.
Answers To Your Questions About Wind & Hail Damage
Having helped many other Texans in situations similar to yours, our accomplished litigators are very familiar with the challenges you face. We are ready to guide you through making an insurance claim, fighting back over delays, or appealing a denied claim. Schedule a free consultation by calling 409-762-5000 or sending an email inquiry.
