How Much Hail Damage Do You Need for an Insurance Roof Replacement?

Hailstorms can cause significant damage to roofs, but homeowners often wonder if their insurance will cover the cost of a full replacement. Not every hail hit qualifies for a claim, and insurance companies have specific guidelines for determining whether damage warrants a replacement or just repairs.

In this guide, we’ll explain how much hail damage is needed for an insurance roof replacement, how adjusters assess claims, and what you can do to strengthen your case.

If you suspect hail damage, call Altru Roofing at (405) 896-0475 for a professional inspection.

1. How Does Hail Damage a Roof?

Hail impacts can weaken the integrity of roofing materials over time. The extent of the damage depends on:

• Hail size: Larger hailstones cause more severe damage.

• Roofing material: Asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and tile roofs respond differently to hail.

• Wind speed: Stronger winds increase the force of hail impact.

• Age of the roof: Older roofs are more vulnerable to damage.

Hail damage may not always be immediately visible, but even small dents can lead to water leaks and long-term deterioration.

2. How Much Hail Damage is Required for Insurance to Cover a Roof Replacement?

Insurance companies typically follow a standardized assessment process to determine if a roof qualifies for replacement. The most common guideline used by adjusters is:

• A minimum of 6 to 10 hail strikes per 100 square feet of roofing

• Clear evidence of granule loss, cracks, or bruising on asphalt shingles

• Soft spots on shingles, indicating impact damage

• Damage to flashing, vents, or gutters

The threshold may vary depending on the age of the roof, the insurer’s policy, and local building codes. If hail damage is widespread and affects multiple areas of your roof, a full replacement is more likely to be approved.

3. How Insurance Adjusters Assess Hail Damage

When you file a hail damage claim, your insurance provider will send an adjuster to inspect the roof. Here’s what they look for:

Common Signs of Hail Damage Adjusters Evaluate:

• Bruising: Soft spots on shingles that indicate impact damage.

• Granule Loss: Exposed asphalt from missing granules, which shortens shingle lifespan.

• Cracks or Splitting: Severe impact can cause shingles to crack or break apart.

• Damage to Metal Components: Dents on vents, gutters, and flashing indicate hail impact.

• Water Leaks or Interior Damage: Stains on ceilings or attic leaks signal serious roof issues.

If the adjuster determines that the damage meets the insurer’s threshold, they may recommend a full roof replacement instead of just repairs.

4. What to Do If Your Insurance Denies the Claim

Not all claims are approved on the first try. If your insurance company denies your claim, you can take these steps:

• Request a second inspection and have a roofing contractor present.

• Provide additional documentation, including photos and professional assessments.

• Ask for a re-evaluation if the adjuster’s report is incomplete.

• Consider hiring a public adjuster to negotiate on your behalf.

Many denials occur because of insufficient documentation or missed damage, so working with a professional roofer can help strengthen your case.

5. Why You Should Get a Professional Roof Inspection

Since hail damage is not always obvious, having a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof before filing a claim can make a significant difference.

Benefits of a Professional Inspection:

• Identifies all visible and hidden damage

• Provides documentation and photos to support your claim

• Helps determine if your roof meets the insurance replacement threshold

• Ensures your claim is as strong as possible before the adjuster’s visit

At Altru Roofing, we provide thorough hail damage inspections and can assist you throughout the insurance claims process.

Final Thoughts: Do You Have Enough Hail Damage for a Roof Replacement?

Insurance companies typically require 6 to 10 hail hits per 100 square feet of roofing for a full replacement. However, other factors, such as the severity of the impact and the overall condition of the roof, play a role in the approval process.

If your roof has been hit by hail, don’t wait until leaks develop. Call Altru Roofing at (405) 896-0475 today for a free inspection and expert guidance on filing an insurance claim.