The paperwork for an insurance claim can feel like a maze. After a hail storm, you want fast answers from your insurance company, a clear roof insurance claim process, and—if the verdict calls for it—a roof replacement that’s covered. 

Our team at Mac’s Roofing Construction & Restoration has walked many of our Dallas‑area neighbors through every kind of hail damage and roof damage imaginable. Below is a simple roadmap we use to help you navigate a hail damage claim from first shingle bruise to the final check.

This blog breaks down the full insurance claim process, from identifying hail damage to getting your roof repaired, with clear steps and tips to avoid common pitfalls. If you’d rather talk through it with someone, or if your situation isn’t addressed here, don’t hesitate to call us directly.

We’re always here to help North Texas homeowners navigate hail damage claims with less stress and more confidence.

What Does Hail Damage Actually Look Like on a Roof?

hail damage insurance claim

Asphalt shingles: bruises, dark spots, or missing granules.

Metal roofs: cosmetic dents or punctures that can lead to corrosion.

Flat or low‑slope roofing: crushed insulation or membrane splits.

Hail damage isn’t always obvious—especially from the ground. While some damage may show up as missing shingles or visible dents, a lot of hail impacts are more subtle but still serious enough to affect your roof’s performance.

For asphalt shingles, you might notice dark spots where granules have been knocked off, leaving the surface exposed to UV rays and faster wear. On metal roofs, look for small dimples, creases, or cracked coating. Clay and slate tiles may chip, crack, or break entirely after a hailstorm.

Soft metals like roof vents, flashing, and gutters often show visible dings that help confirm the size and direction of hail impact. These collateral signs are especially useful when filing a claim.

Inside the attic, check for water stains or wet insulation—both signs of damage that could lead to bigger problems if not addressed quickly.

Because hail damage can lead to leaks, mold, and structural rot, it’s critical to catch it early and stop minor hits from becoming major problems. That’s why we always recommend a professional inspection—even if you’re not sure there’s a problem.

Step 1: Document the Damage to Your Roof

Photograph everything — gutters, vents, skylights, landscaping, even the AC unit.

Schedule our free inspection. We record hail impacts that untrained eyes miss.

Protect against further roof damage. We’ll install emergency tarps if leaks are present.

The first and most important step in the roof insurance claim process is documentation. Start as soon as it’s safe after the storm.

Take clear photos of any visible signs of hail damage: missing shingles, dented gutters, or granule buildup in your downspouts. If you notice water coming in, photograph any interior damage as well: stained ceilings, wet drywall, or soggy insulation.

Next, bring in a roofing contractor (like us) to perform a detailed inspection. We know exactly what insurance companies look for in a legitimate roof damage claim, and we can create a full roof damage report, complete with annotated photos, measurements, and professional notes.

That report becomes a critical part of your claim file. Our goal is to document everything thoroughly so your insurance provider can’t dismiss the damage as cosmetic or due to wear and tear.

The more detailed your documentation, the easier it is to prove that the hail storm caused the roof damage, not wear and tear over time or neglect.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company

Call or file online within days of the hail storm. Provide the following information:

  • Date and time of storm, plus photos and our inspection summary.
  • Any emergency repairs already completed.

Under the Texas Prompt Payment of Claims Act, your insurer must acknowledge your notice within 15 business days, then accept or reject the claim within the next 15—unless they request an extra 45 days to keep investigating.

Texas law generally gives property owners two years from the date of loss to file an insurance claim for hailstorm damage, though some policies shorten that window. Know that waiting increases the risk of your claim being denied and/or bigger repair bills down the road.

Step 3: Call a Roofing Contractor You Trust

You are not required to hire a roofer from your insurer’s preferred vendor list. Choose a local contractor you trust who knows Dallas building codes, hail patterns, and insurance paperwork.

We do the following:

  • Perform a second, detailed inspection.
  • Draft a line‑item scope of work using Xactimate® pricing (the same software many adjusters use).
  • Explain normal wear and tear vs. covered hail damage so you understand what’s at stake.

Step 4: Meet the Insurance Adjuster With Your Roofer

We can attend every adjuster meeting to:

  • Point out covered damage that can hide in plain sight.
  • Compare our measurements with the adjuster’s.
  • Answer technical questions on roofing material, underlayment, and code upgrades.

Our presence helps ensure all legitimate repairs, or possible roof replacement, appear on the estimate.

Coverage Questions:

Is Your Roof Fully Covered for Hail Damage?

Standard homeowners insurance covers sudden, accidental hail impacts, but some carriers reduce coverage on older roofs or list cosmetic metal‑roof dents as excluded. Commercial hail damage claim language can differ.

Always confirm:

  • Coverage limits on wind and hail.
  • Actual cash value endorsements on aging roofs.
  • Excluded materials (e.g., wood shake).

What Happens If Your Roof Claim Is Denied?

A denial isn’t the final word. Common reasons an insurance company denies a claim include late reporting, normal wear misclassified as storm damage, or missed collateral damage like gutters and window beading. 

We can:

  • Request a re‑inspection.
  • Provide additional photos, core samples, or ladder‑assist reports.
  • Refer you to a public adjuster or attorney if the dispute persists.

Understanding Roof Insurance Claim Terms: ACV vs. RCV

One of the most confusing parts of filing an insurance claim for hail damage is understanding how your payout is calculated. Most homeowners insurance policies fall into one of two categories: ACV (Actual Cash Value) or RCV (Replacement Cost Value).

  • ACV means the insurance company pays you based on the current value of your roof, factoring in depreciation. So if your roof is 15 years old, your payout will be much lower than the cost to replace it. You may have to cover the difference out of pocket.
  • RCV policies cover the full replacement cost, without subtracting depreciation. You’ll typically get an initial payment (minus your deductible), and a second payment once the work is completed and invoices are submitted.

We help our clients understand which policy they have and what they can expect. If your policy only pays ACV, we’ll work with you to prioritize repairs or find cost-effective roofing material options that still offer long-term protection. And if your coverage includes RCV, we’ll make sure all paperwork is submitted properly so you receive the full amount you’re entitled to.

Payment Questions:

When Will You Get Your Insurance Check?

Insurance companies often issue payment in stages—ACV up front, RCV upon completion. The entire process usually takes three to six weeks, but complex claims can stretch longer. We track paperwork and keep you updated to avoid any surprises.

How Much Will You Have to Pay Out of Pocket?

Most insurance companies issue the ACV check soon after approval; you pay your deductible before work begins. If code upgrades or decking replacement push costs above the original estimate, we submit a supplement so you’re not stuck covering the gap.

Choosing the Right Roofing Material After a Hail Storm

If you need a roof replacement, it’s a good time to consider materials that stand up better to future hail. Impact-resistant asphalt shingles (Class 4-rated) offer better protection than standard shingles and may lower your insurance premiums. Metal roofs are another durable option because they resist severe weather well, though they can show cosmetic dents.

We’ll help you compare options based on your home, budget, and homeowners insurance policy. Whether you’re looking for longevity, storm resistance, or lower maintenance, we’ll guide you toward a roof that performs better long-term.

How We Support You Through the Entire Insurance Claim Process

From first call to final inspection, we:

  • Inspect and document every damaged roof component.
  • Communicate with your adjuster, supplying photos, measurements, and code citations.
  • Repair or replace your roof using manufacturer‑certified crews.
  • Finalize with a completion certificate so your insurance company releases any remaining funds.

Our goal is for you receive fair compensation and a roof built to handle the next hail storm.

Why Homeowners in Dallas Trust Us After Severe Weather

  • Local experience: We’ve replaced thousands of roofs across Dallas, Plano, Frisco, McKinney and surrounding areas—bringing deep local experience and understanding to every job.
  • Storm‑response crews: Our storm-response crews mobilize quickly to prevent further damage and begin the recovery process without delay.
  • Code compliance: Every project we complete meets the International Residential Code, along with all Dallas-area amendments, so homeowners can trust the repairs are both safe and compliant.

Ready to Start Your Roof Claim Process?

We hope this guide made a stressful situation a little easier to handle. Call Mac’s Roofing or fill out our online form for a free, no‑obligation roof inspection. We’ll help you handle the insurance claim, restore your roof, and let you get back to life without the headache.

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