Navigating Insurance Claims After a DFW Hail Storm: A Step-by-Step Guide
Brandon Fletcher
S&B Roofing & Exteriors
Hail Season in DFW: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex sits squarely in "Hail Alley." Every year, storms roll through causing millions of dollars in roof damage. If your home has been hit, you have rights — and a process to follow to ensure you're made whole.
Step 1: Document Everything Immediately
After a hail event, don't wait. Here's what to do in the first 24-48 hours:
Photograph damage — from the ground — dented gutters, damaged siding, broken screens
Check your attic — for any signs of water intrusion
Save the date — note the exact date and time of the storm
Don't make permanent repairs — yet — temporary tarps are fine, but don't replace anything before the adjuster visits
Step 2: Contact a Professional Roofer FIRST
Many homeowners make the mistake of calling their insurance company first. Here's why you should call us first:
We'll do a free inspection and document all damage with professional photos and measurements. This gives you a complete picture of the damage BEFORE the adjuster arrives. The adjuster works for the insurance company — they're looking to minimize the payout. You need someone in your corner who knows exactly what to look for.
Step 3: File Your Claim
Call your insurance company to open a claim. Important things to know:
Statute of limitations — In Texas, you generally have one year from the date of the storm to file a claim. Don't wait until the last minute.
Deductible — Most homeowner policies have a 1-2% deductible based on the home's insured value. A $300,000 home with a 2% deductible means $6,000 out of pocket.
Depreciation — Insurance companies initially pay the "actual cash value" (ACV), which deducts depreciation. You get the remaining "recoverable depreciation" after the work is completed.
Step 4: The Adjuster Visit
When the insurance adjuster comes to your property:
Be present — or have your contractor present
Point out all damage — don't assume they'll find everything
Get their report — in writing
Don't sign anything — that says "final settlement" unless you're satisfied
Step 5: Review and Supplement
The initial insurance estimate is rarely the final word. Common reasons to supplement:
Missed damage items
Incorrect measurements
Code upgrade requirements (building codes may have changed since your roof was installed)
Matching requirements (if part of your roof needs replacement, the undamaged sections may need to match)
At S&B Roofing, we handle the supplementing process for you. We've recovered thousands of additional dollars for homeowners through proper supplementing.
Step 6: Choose Your Contractor
Texas law gives you the right to choose any licensed contractor — you're not limited to the insurance company's "preferred" vendors. Choose a contractor who:
Is licensed and insured in Texas
Has experience with insurance restoration work
Will work within the insurance estimate
Offers a workmanship warranty
Is local to DFW (avoid storm chasers)
Red Flags to Watch For
Contractors who want you to sign a contract before the adjuster visits
Anyone who offers to "waive your deductible" — this is insurance fraud
Pressure to make immediate decisions
Out-of-state license plates on work trucks
No physical business address in DFW
How S&B Roofing Handles Insurance Claims
We've managed thousands of insurance claims in the DFW area. Our process:
Free comprehensive roof inspection
We meet the adjuster on-site
We review the insurance estimate for accuracy
We supplement for any missed items
We complete the work to insurance specifications
We help you collect your recoverable depreciation
We provide all documentation for your records
Storm damage? Don't navigate the insurance process alone. Contact us for a free inspection and let us handle the heavy lifting.
insurance claims
hail damage
DFW
storm damage
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