Hailstorms can wreak havoc on rental properties—especially roofs. For landlords, hail damage isn’t just cosmetic; it can impact habitability, insurance claims, and long-term maintenance costs. If you own rental property – especially in hail-prone states like Texas, Colorado, or Oklahoma –here’s what you need to know.
Does Landlord Insurance Cover Hail Damage?
Most landlord insurance policies do cover hail damage to roofs, siding, windows, and other parts of the structure. Coverage typically falls under the dwelling protection portion of your policy. To make sure you’re properly insured, review your policy’s limits and exclusions—or start with our guide to storm and hail damage coverage.
What Counts as Hail Damage?
- Cracked or bruised shingles
- Dented metal flashing, gutters, or vents
- Granule loss on asphalt shingles (accelerates aging)
- Water intrusion from damaged roof surfaces
While some damage is obvious, other issues—like microfractures or weakened sealants—may go unnoticed without an inspection. Over time, these can lead to water damage or even structural deterioration.
How to Spot Roof Damage After a Hailstorm
- Check for visible dents or soft spots on shingles
- Look for granules in downspouts or gutters
- Inspect attic ceilings for leaks or water spots
- Use binoculars or hire a roofer for a closer look
Tip: Always document the date and extent of the storm, and take photos before cleanup or repairs begin.
How to File a Claim for Hail Damage
- Notify your insurer as soon as possible—delays can jeopardize claim approval.
- Get a licensed roofing contractor to inspect and estimate damage.
- Provide detailed documentation: photos, weather reports, tenant communication.
- If necessary, use temporary repairs (e.g., tarps) to prevent further damage.
What Repairs Are Typically Needed?
- Roof shingle or tile replacement
- Flashing or gutter replacement
- Attic insulation or sheetrock repair if water intrusion occurred
- Repainting or siding replacement if affected
Be cautious of contractors pushing full replacements without documentation. Some issues can be spot-treated affordably—others require full replacement to stay compliant with local codes.
When Is a Roof Too Old for Hail Coverage?
Some policies include exclusions or reduced coverage for roofs older than 15–20 years. If your policy uses actual cash value (ACV) instead of replacement cost, you could receive a depreciated payout.
Want full coverage? Make sure your policy uses a replacement cost estimator that reflects current labor and material prices.
Bottom Line: Hail Damage Is Common—Make Sure You’re Covered
Roof damage from hail can lead to major repair bills and tenant complaints. With the right policy and timely action, landlords can protect their investments and avoid out-of-pocket surprises.
Get a quote from Steadily today to make sure your property is covered before the next storm.
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