Hail Damage in Central Wisconsin: What to Know Before Filing a Claim

After the recent hail in Central Wisconsin, many homeowners are checking their roofs, siding, gutters, and vehicles for damage. If your property was affected, it is important to understand how wind and hail claims are handled before filing a claim.

Over the last few years, many insurance companies have changed the way they handle wind and hail damage. A claim today may not work the same way it did several years ago.

Wind and Hail Deductibles May Be Different

Many insurance companies now have a separate deductible for wind and hail claims. This deductible is often higher than your standard deductible.

Depending on your policy, the wind and hail deductible may be a flat amount, such as $2,500, $5,000, or $10,000. It may also be a percentage of your dwelling coverage, commonly 1% or 2%.

For example, if your home is insured for $400,000 and your wind and hail deductible is 1%, your deductible would be $4,000 for a wind or hail claim.

Because every company and policy can be different, it is important to review your deductible before deciding whether to file a claim.

Roof Coverage May Depend on the Age of the Roof

Another major change is how many companies handle roof damage.

Many insurance carriers now use a roof payment schedule based on the age of the roof. This means that an older roof may not be paid at full replacement cost, even if hail damage is confirmed.

The amount paid may depend on the age of the roof, the type of roofing material, and the specific policy language. Some companies may pay replacement cost for newer roofs but apply a schedule or depreciation as the roof gets older.

In simple terms, the older the roof is, the more important it is to understand how your policy will respond before filing a claim.

Siding and Other Exterior Damage

Hail can also damage siding, gutters, windows, screens, trim, and other exterior materials. Coverage for these items can also vary depending on the policy.

Some policies may handle siding differently than roofing. Others may apply depreciation or other limitations depending on the type of damage and the policy terms.

This is why it is important not to assume every part of the home will be handled the same way.

What Should You Do After Hail Damage?

If you think your home may have been damaged by hail, here are a few good first steps:

• Take clear photos of any visible damage.
• Check for damage to siding, gutters, downspouts, window screens, trim, and outdoor items.
• Review your wind and hail deductible.
• Find out whether your roof is covered at replacement cost, actual cash value, or subject to a roof schedule.
• Be cautious about signing contracts with contractors before understanding your coverage.
• Contact your insurance agent before filing if you are unsure whether a claim makes sense.
• Talk With Your Agent First

Storm damage claims are not always as simple as they used to be. Between separate wind and hail deductibles, roof schedules, depreciation, and policy differences, it is worth having a conversation before making a claim decision.

If you were affected by the recent hail in Central Wisconsin and have questions, Marshfield Insurance is here to help. We can review your coverage, explain your deductible, and help you understand what to expect before you decide on next steps.