Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Hail Damage Insurance Claim in Florida?

Understanding Hail Damage in Florida

Hailstorms may not grab headlines like hurricanes, but they can cause severe property damage, especially to roofs, siding, windows, and outdoor structures. In Florida, hail can strike quickly, leaving behind thousands of dollars in repairs. Unfortunately, many homeowners who file insurance claims for hail damage often encounter resistance in the form of denials, delays, or lowball settlements.

So why does this happen? Below, we break down the most common reasons why hail damage claims get denied or underpaid in Florida—and what policyholders can do to fight back.

High Risk for Storm-Related Claims

Florida is no stranger to severe weather—hurricanes and powerful thunderstorms often bring significant hail, which can cause property damage to roofs, windows, and siding. These frequent storms can lead to higher insurance claims, sometimes prompting insurers to scrutinize claims more closely.

Policy Nuances and Exclusions

Homeowners’ insurance policies vary widely; some have restrictive language regarding wind and hail damage. Reviewing your policy’s declarations, endorsements, and exclusions is critical in determining whether hail damage is fully covered. Consulting an attorney may clarify your coverage if you encounter confusing or contradictory policy terms.

What Your Homeowners’ Insurance Should Cover

The Typical Hail Damage Coverage

Most Florida homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage under the windstorm provision. However, how much you’re covered for—and how easy it is to get that money—is a different story.

Roof Damage and Deductibles

Your roof is often the most expensive thing hail hits. And in Florida, policies might have high wind/hurricane deductibles. Sometimes, that deductible can be 2-5% of your home’s insured value. That’s thousands of dollars.

The Role of Depreciation and ACV vs RCV

Insurance companies often pay Actual Cash Value (ACV) unless you have coverage for Replacement Cost Value (RCV). That means they’ll deduct for depreciation, so your old roof might be valued at pennies.

The Claim Process in a Perfect World

Here’s how it should go:

1. File a claim
2. Get an inspection
3. Receive a fair payout
4. Get your repairs done
5. Move on with your life

But let’s be real, it rarely goes that smoothly.

Why Hail Damage Claims Get Denied or Underpaid

Florida insurance companies are notorious for denying or undervaluing property damage claims, especially when the damage isn’t immediately catastrophic. Common tactics insurers use include:

• Claiming the damage is “cosmetic” or “wear and tear”
• Saying the roof was already old or in poor condition before the hailstorm
• Disputing the date of loss or whether hail caused the damage at all
• Delaying the inspection or response time beyond what’s reasonable

When these issues arise, it’s often in your best interest to consult a property insurance lawyer who can fight to get your complete claim paid.

What Does Hail Damage Look Like on a Roof?

Hail damage to your roof isn’t always easy to spot. If the hail is large enough (1” in diameter or bigger), you will most likely see dents/dings on your shingles. Just because your roof doesn’t have large dents in the shingles doesn’t mean you won’t have hail damage. Additional signs of hail damage to your roof include dings, dents, and splatter marks on your vents, gutters, flashing, and other roof penetrations.

1. Document the Damage

• When it’s safe, take extensive photographs of the damage to your home from the ground. You should also review your insurance policy to know what to expect and what questions to ask.
• Do not start repairs. Cover the damage with a tarp to protect your home while processing the claim.

2. File a Claim

• When you file a claim, you request that your insurance company pay for home repairs based on the policy coverage.
• Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess your home or roof damage. If this adjuster determines that your damage is only cosmetic, your policy will likely not cover the repair costs for the damaged shingles.

Remember, insurance companies are businesses that make substantial profits by denying claims. A new roof is a significant expense, even with you paying a portion of the costs through your deductible. So, if they can find any excuse to avoid their responsibility to pay, they will take it.

Tips to Ensure Adequate Hail Damage Coverage

• Review Your Policy: Understand what is and isn’t covered. Ask your insurance agent about exclusions or limitations related to hail damage.
• Upgrade Your Roof: If your roof is old or damaged, consider replacing it with impact-resistant materials, which may qualify you for a premium discount.
• Maintain Your Property: Regular maintenance can reduce the likelihood of denied claims due to poor upkeep.
• Add Endorsements: Adding endorsements or riders to your policy in hail-prone areas can provide extra protection.

How a Florida Hail Damage Lawyer Can Help

Williams Law, P.A., experienced insurance claim attorneys can take the pressure off you and level the playing field. Here’s how:

1. Conduct an Independent Damage Assessment

Lawyers work with trusted roofing experts and inspectors who provide honest, unbiased evaluations, so you’re not relying solely on the insurer’s word.

2. Handle Communications with the Insurance Company

Your lawyer can handle adjusters, requests for documentation, and negotiation, saving you from stressful back-and-forth.

3. Fight for Full Compensation

Attorneys understand how to calculate the actual value of your loss and won’t settle for less than you deserve—whether that’s roof replacement, structural repair, or water remediation.

4. File a Lawsuit if Necessary

If negotiations fail, our expert insurance claim attorneys can take your case to court and hold the insurance company accountable for bad faith or breach of contract.

Has Your Hail Claim Been Denied or Underpaid in Florida?