Storm Damage Claims

Storm Damage Claim Rights

Hurricane, wind, hail, and tornado damage claims are complex. Secondary damage is often missed. Know your full coverage.

Free & No Obligation

Policyholder-First Education

Nationwide Advocacy

trusted by policyholders nationwide

What Hurricane & Storm Insurance Covers

Wind and hail damage coverage varies by policy. Understanding what's included is essential.

Roof Damage

Wind, hail, and storm impact

Water Intrusion

From storm-damaged openings

Fallen Trees

Removal & structural damage

Windows & Siding

Exterior storm damage

Living Expenses (ALE)

Temporary housing costs

Emergency Repairs

Tarping & securing property

Structural Damage

Wind-damaged framing, walls

Professional Restoration

Licensed contractor services

Check What You're Entitled To

Common Storm Claim Issues

Storm claims are frequently disputed. These are the most common problems.

Roof Age Disputes

Insurers often depreciate roof claims based on age, even when storm damage is clear.

Matching Issues

When materials can't be matched, insurers may refuse to cover full replacement costs.

Interior Damage Missed

Water intrusion and interior damage from storm events is frequently overlooked.

Storm Claim Timeline: What to Expect

Understanding the storm claim process helps you protect your rights at every stage.

Within 48 Hours: Emergency Mitigation

Document all damage immediately with photos and videos. Tarp damaged roof areas and board broken windows to prevent further damage. Contact your insurance company to file the claim. Save all weather reports and hail maps from the storm date.

⚠️ Important: Emergency mitigation costs are covered. Keep all receipts for tarps, boarding, and temporary repairs.

Days 3-10: Initial Roof Inspection

Insurance adjuster inspects roof and exterior damage. They often use "wind vs. hail" disputes or claim damage is from "wear and tear" instead of storm. Interior water damage from roof penetration is frequently missed during initial inspection.

💡 Tip: Get independent roof inspection. Adjusters often count fewer hail strikes than actually exist.

Weeks 2-4: Depreciation & Matching Disputes

Initial offers heavily depreciate roof based on age. Matching disputes arise when exact shingles, siding, or materials are discontinued. Insurers may offer only partial roof replacement when full replacement is needed for proper matching.

⚠️ Critical: 74% of storm claims are initially undervalued. Roof age depreciation and matching issues are most common.

Ongoing: Hidden Interior & Code Upgrades

During roof removal, contractors discover hidden damage: rotted decking, compromised trusses, attic insulation damage. Code upgrade requirements (new flashing, ventilation, decking standards) are often excluded by insurers but required by permit.

💡 Tip: File supplemental claims for all hidden damage discovered during repairs. Document everything before removal.

Need help navigating your storm claim? Get connected with a storm damage specialist.

Start Free Assessment

Not Sure If Your Fire Claim Is Fair?

Get a free claim rights summary. We'll help you understand your options.

Check My Claim Rights