Storm Damage HubStorm Damage vs. Wear and Tear: What's Covered?
Insurance covers storm damage but not normal aging. Here's how to tell the difference and protect your claim.
Free Inspection(210) 272-7272 Licensed, Bonded & Insured Storm Damage Specialists 200+ 5-Star Reviews 26+ Years in SA What Counts as Storm Damage
Storm damage is sudden and caused by a specific weather event: hail, high winds, falling trees, or wind-driven rain. Hail damage on asphalt shingles appears as dark spots or bruises where granules have been knocked loose, exposing the mat underneath. Wind damage shows as lifted, creased, or missing shingles, usually along ridge lines and edges. These types of damage are covered by your homeowners insurance under the wind/hail peril section of your policy.
What Counts as Wear and Tear
Wear and tear is the gradual deterioration of your roof over time due to age, UV exposure, thermal cycling, and normal weather. Examples include: uniform granule loss across the entire roof, curling or cupping shingles, cracking in dry-rotted shingles, moss or algae growth, and deteriorating caulk or sealant around flashings. Wear and tear is not covered by insurance because it's considered a maintenance responsibility of the homeowner.
Why This Distinction Matters
Insurance companies will deny claims if they determine the damage is wear-and-tear rather than storm-related. This is one of the most common reasons for claim denials in San Antonio. The distinction can be subtle: a roof with pre-existing wear may also sustain storm damage during a hail event. In these cases, the storm damage is still covered even though the underlying condition is not. A knowledgeable contractor and adjuster can differentiate between the two.
How to Protect Your Claim
Maintain your roof regularly and document its condition annually. After any significant storm, get a professional inspection. If your insurer denies your claim citing wear and tear, your contractor can provide a technical assessment differentiating storm damage from pre-existing conditions. Weather data (hail size, wind speed) from the specific storm event can further support your documentation. Under most homeowner policies, new storm damage is typically a covered peril regardless of the roof's age.
Key Takeaways
Storm damage is sudden and caused by a specific event (covered by insurance)
Wear and tear is gradual deterioration over time (not covered)
A roof can have both pre-existing wear and new storm damage simultaneously
New storm damage is covered even on an older roof with some wear
Regular maintenance and annual documentation strengthen future claims
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Insurance Guides
What to Do When Your Roof Claim Is Denied
A denied claim isn't necessarily the end of the road. Here are your options for pursuing your claim further.
Read GuideHow to Document Roof Storm Damage
Good documentation is the foundation of a successful claim. Here's what you need and how to get it.
Read GuideHow Your Roof's Age Affects Insurance Coverage
Older roofs face higher deductibles, reduced coverage, and even non-renewal. Here's what San Antonio homeowners need to know.
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.
Need Help With Your Claim?
Legacy has helped hundreds of San Antonio homeowners navigate the storm damage process. Get a free inspection and honest guidance.
Schedule Free Inspection(210) 272-7272