Everything Texas Homeowners Need to Know About Hail & Wind Damage Roof Claims

Step-by-step guide for Texas homeowners filing hail and wind damage roof claims with insurance. Learn what’s covered and what to do.
Written by:
Leanne Tolbert
June 4, 2025
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When severe Texas storms hit, they often bring strong winds and damaging hail that can silently or violently compromise your roof. Whether you spot missing shingles on your lawn or tiny dents in your gutters, storm damage should never be ignored. If this is your first time navigating an insurance claim, the process may seem overwhelming. This guide walks you through every step, so you can confidently protect your home, file correctly, and restore your roof with the help of a reliable contractor like SunTex Roofing & Reconstruction.

1. What Is Considered Hail and Wind Damage?

Storm damage isn’t always obvious from the ground. Here are common signs to look for:

Hail Damage:

  • Round impact marks on shingles

  • Granule loss exposing the asphalt layer

  • Dents in flashing, vents, or gutters

  • Bruised, fractured, or cracked shingles

Wind Damage:

  • Lifted, curled, or missing shingles

  • Shifted ridge caps and flashing

  • Exposed roof underlayment

  • Ceiling stains or attic leaks inside the home

Even if your roof looks okay, minor damage can lead to major leaks or void warranties. That’s why a free roof inspection from SunTex Roofing is a smart first step after every storm.

2. Does My Insurance Cover Hail or Wind Damage?

In most cases, yes. Most Texas homeowners policies include wind and hail as covered perils. But payout depends on your policy type:

  • Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Pays full replacement minus your deductible

  • Actual Cash Value (ACV): Pays less, factoring in depreciation

Insurers may also separate functional damage (affects roof performance) from cosmetic damage (appearance only). Knowing your coverage can help avoid surprises or claim denials. Still unsure? SunTex helps homeowners review insurance policies during inspection visits.

3. Step-by-Step: Filing a Roof Insurance Claim in Texas

Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Document the Damage

  • Take detailed photos and videos of roof, gutters, windows, siding, and personal property

  • Capture close-ups and wide shots for context

Step 2: Schedule a Free Professional Inspection

  • SunTex Roofing will inspect your roof at no cost

  • Our reports include photos, diagrams, and documentation to support your claim

Step 3: File the Claim with Your Insurance Carrier

  • File as soon as possible; most Texas policies allow 1–2 years

  • Faster filing often results in smoother outcomes

Step 4: Attend the Adjuster Meeting

  • Your insurer sends an adjuster to assess the damage

  • Have SunTex present to advocate and ensure nothing gets overlooked

Step 5: Review the Insurance Estimate

  • If it seems too low, your contractor can help supplement the claim with additional evidence

This process is smoother when you have an experienced roofing partner guiding you through each step.

4. What If Your Claim Gets Denied?

Don’t panic. Here’s how to respond:

  • Double-check your policy: Ensure the denial reason aligns with your coverage

  • File an appeal: Include additional documentation and a letter of reconsideration

  • Hire a public adjuster: They can reassess and negotiate on your behalf

  • Seek legal guidance: If the denial seems unjust, legal action may be needed

Don’t accept a denial as the final word. SunTex Roofing can provide a second opinion and help you fight for fair coverage.

5. Risks of Ignoring Denied or Delayed Claims

Avoiding storm damage doesn’t just hurt your home—it can hurt your future insurance:

  • A denied claim appears in your CLUE report, which insurers check

  • It may affect future claim approvals or eligibility

  • Damage left untreated often leads to leaks, wood rot, or mold

  • Long delays may reduce the value of a future claim

When in doubt, act quickly. The longer you wait, the more expensive it gets.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Homeowners often make these errors after a storm:

  • Waiting too long to file a claim

  • Not taking enough photo/video evidence

  • Relying only on the insurance adjuster’s opinion

  • Hiring storm chasers or unlicensed roofers

Instead, work with a local, licensed, and insured company like SunTex. We serve communities across North, Central, and Austin, TX—and we never cut corners.

7. Choosing the Right Contractor for Storm Damage

Storm season often brings unqualified roofers knocking. Protect yourself by choosing a professional contractor with:

  • Local business license and insurance

  • Extensive experience with insurance claims

  • Long-term warranties and clearly written contracts

  • Solid online reviews and verified references

SunTex Roofing & Reconstruction has helped homeowners in cities like McKinney, Fort Worth, and Austin get fair payouts and quality roof replacements after storms.

8. How to Prepare Your Roof Before the Next Storm

Prevention goes a long way. Here’s how to be proactive:

  • Schedule Annual Roof Inspections with SunTex

  • Reinforce Shingles and Flashing before storm season

  • Clear Gutters and Downspouts to avoid water backup

  • Trim Tree Limbs that could fall during high winds

  • Review Your Policy to make sure your roof is properly covered

Book your free inspection today and protect your home before the next storm arrives.

9. FAQs About Roof Claims in Texas

How long do I have to file a claim?
Usually 1–2 years, but earlier is better for strong documentation.

Can I choose my own roofer?
Yes—you’re not required to use your insurer’s preferred vendor.

Will filing raise my premium?
Storm claims often don’t raise rates individually, but too many can.

What if my roof is old?
If the storm caused new, functional damage, your claim may still qualify.

See more answers on our FAQ page.

10. Why SunTex Roofing is the Best Choice After a Storm

We’re not just storm damage experts—we’re your long-term roofing partner.

  • Free roof inspections & storm reports

  • Start-to-finish insurance claim support

  • High-quality residential, HOA, and commercial roofing

  • Local offices in DFW and Central Texas

  • Highly rated by hundreds of homeowners

We believe in restoring more than roofs. We restore peace of mind.

Conclusion: Storm Damage Doesn’t Have to Be a Setback

With the right team by your side, navigating a hail or wind damage claim is simpler and more successful. Let SunTex Roofing guide you every step of the way—from inspection to restoration.

👉 Schedule your free inspection or call 214-766-3669 to speak with our storm claim experts today.

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