Before filing, get a free contractor inspection to confirm damage exists, pull weather data for your date of loss, find your wind/hail deductible, gather past roof records, and review your policy declarations page.
Key facts
- A free inspection confirms whether damage actually meets carrier replacement thresholds.
- Wind/hail deductibles in Texas are commonly higher than the standard deductible — sometimes 1–5% of dwelling coverage.
- Past roof age and any prior claims affect both adjuster expectations and depreciation calculations.
- Your declarations page lists deductible, policy type (ACV vs RCV), and any endorsements.
- Premium impacts of filing vary by carrier — ask your agent before filing if you have concerns.
Step-by-step
- 1
Get a free contractor inspection
Confirms whether documented damage exists at the threshold needed for a claim.
- 2
Pull weather data for date of loss
NWS Storm Events Database for hail/wind reports at your address.
- 3
Locate your declarations page
Confirms deductible, ACV vs RCV, and any wind/hail endorsements.
- 4
Calculate your true deductible
1% of $400,000 dwelling = $4,000 — make sure damage exceeds the deductible.
- 5
Gather past roof records
Install date, prior claims, any warranties — affects depreciation and scope.
Frequently asked questions
Will filing a roof claim raise my insurance rates?+
Premium impact varies by carrier. Legitimate weather-related claims have smaller impact than at-fault claims, but it's not zero. Ask your agent.
Should I file if damage is less than my deductible?+
Typically no — you'd pay out of pocket anyway, and the claim still appears on your insurance history.
Can a contractor file the claim for me?+
A contractor can help you prepare documentation, but the homeowner files. In Texas, contractors are not licensed public adjusters.
How long after a storm can I file?+
Most policies require filing within 1 year of the date of loss, but exact terms vary by policy.