Hail causes around $1 billion in damage to property and crops each year. In 2020, Texas had the most wind/hail losses in the U.S. – with 601 hail events (Insurance Information Institute). While hail storms can’t be prevented, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself, your family, your car, and your home from hail damage.
Before a Hail Storm
- Check your insurance policy to see what’s covered in the case of hail damage and what deductible you’ve chosen.
- Consider adding additional coverage such as replacement cost value (RCV) if you don’t already have it.
How to Reduce Hail Damage
- Get your roof regularly inspected to keep it free of defects and in good condition.
- Repair or replace worn, curled, lifted, or missing shingles.
- If your roof is showing signs of age, consider replacing it before hail season begins.
- Install protective shields for equipment, such as air conditioning units. Be sure to consult with the manufacturer prior to installation to ensure that operating efficiencies or equipment warranties will not be compromised.
- Install protective screens over skylights.
- Plan to bring in any outdoor furniture, decorations, or any other items that may suffer hail damage or become missiles in the event of high winds.
- Consider storm shutters or boards to protect your windows.
After a Hail Storm
- If you’ve experienced damage, report it as soon as possible.
- Get your property inspected and get a written estimate. Review any contracts before signing.
- Take photos or videos of damage.
- Hire a qualified and insured contractor to do the repairs.
- Only make emergency repairs before your insurance company’s inspection.
- Keep receipts and records of all communications regarding repairs.
- Double-check that the repairs are completed, then take photos or videos for your records.
*️⃣ To learn more about homeowners insurance, visit The Basics, Shopping Guide, Claims Handling, and Know Your Rights sections of our website.
hail events in Texas in 2020
