Storm Damage HubHow to File a Roof Hail Damage Claim in San Antonio
A step-by-step walkthrough of the hail damage claim process, from first inspection to final check.
Free Inspection(210) 272-7272 Licensed, Bonded & Insured Storm Damage Specialists 200+ 5-Star Reviews 26+ Years in SA Step 1: Get a Professional Inspection
After a hail storm, the first step is getting your roof inspected by a qualified roofing contractor. Do not attempt to inspect your roof yourself. A professional will document all hail damage with photos, identify which areas are affected, and determine if the damage warrants a claim. This inspection should be free and comes with a written report. At Legacy, we provide a full photo report with our findings and an honest recommendation on whether filing a claim makes sense for your situation.
Step 2: File the Claim
If the inspection reveals significant hail damage, call your insurance company to file a claim. You'll need your policy number, the date of the storm, and a brief description of the damage. The insurance company will assign a claim number and schedule an adjuster visit. File your claim as soon as possible after discovering damage. Most Texas policies require you to file within one year of the storm date, though sooner is always better.
Step 3: The Adjuster Inspection
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. This is one of the most important steps. Having your roofing contractor present during the inspection allows them to point out all areas of damage and provide their professional assessment. The adjuster will write an estimate based on what they find. Having a knowledgeable contractor present helps ensure all damage is visible and documented.
Step 4: Review the Estimate and Supplement
Once you receive the insurance estimate, share it with your contractor so they can compare it to their own professional assessment. If your contractor identifies items that are missing or not reflected in the scope, they can prepare documentation to support a supplement request. Common items that may need additional documentation include drip edge, underlayment upgrades, code-required ventilation, flashing, and decking replacement. The supplement process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Step 5: Roof Replacement
Once the claim and any supplements are approved, your contractor schedules the roof replacement. Before work begins, you should receive a detailed contract outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment terms. Your contractor handles all permitting (if required by your municipality) and coordinates the installation. Most residential roof replacements take 1 to 3 days.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Recoverable Depreciation
After the roof is installed, your contractor provides completion photos and documentation. If you have an RCV policy, this documentation is submitted to your insurance company to release the recoverable depreciation check. Your contractor should schedule a final walkthrough to ensure you're satisfied with the work before closing out the project.
Key Takeaways
Get a professional inspection before filing a claim
File your claim as soon as possible after discovering damage
Have your contractor present during the adjuster's inspection
Review the insurance estimate with your contractor for missed items
Submit completion documentation to release recoverable depreciation (RCV policies)
Frequently Asked Questions
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Read GuideBack to Storm Damage HubImportant Disclaimer
Legacy Home Improvements is a licensed roofing contractor, not a public adjuster or insurance advisor. The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be construed as insurance advice, claims guidance, or legal counsel. We do not interpret insurance policies, negotiate claim settlements, or advise homeowners on insurance matters. For questions about your specific policy, coverage, or claim, please contact your insurance company or a licensed public adjuster directly. Texas Insurance Code Chapter 4102 governs the practice of public adjusting in Texas.
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