Oklahoma is one of the most hail-prone states in the country. If your roof has been hit by a hailstorm, knowing how to properly file an insurance claim can mean the difference between a full roof replacement paid by insurance or paying thousands out of pocket. Here’s a step-by-step guide for Oklahoma homeowners.
Step 1: Assess the Situation Safely After the Storm
After a hailstorm passes, do a visual assessment from the ground. Look for obvious signs of damage like dented gutters, damaged window screens, or bruised siding. Do NOT climb on your roof without proper equipment and experience — it’s dangerous, especially when wet.
Step 2: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Call a reputable Oklahoma roofing contractor for a free post-storm inspection. A qualified inspector can identify all hail damage — including damage that isn’t visible from the ground — and document it with photos for your insurance claim. Oklahoma Roofing Experts provides free inspections throughout the state.
Step 3: Document All Damage
Before calling your insurance company, make sure all damage is properly documented. This includes:
- Photos of damaged shingles showing bruising, cracking, or granule loss
- Photos of dented gutters, downspouts, and flashings
- Photos of any damaged siding, window screens, or A/C units
- Date and time of the storm event
- Any weather reports confirming hail in your area
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company’s claims line to report the storm damage. Have your policy number ready. Most Oklahoma policies require you to file your claim within a reasonable timeframe after the storm event. Be honest and thorough when describing the damage.
Step 5: Meet With the Insurance Adjuster
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect your roof. We strongly recommend having your roofing contractor present during this inspection. A knowledgeable roofer can point out all damage to the adjuster and advocate for your full coverage.
Step 6: Review the Claim Settlement
Once the adjuster completes their assessment, your insurance company will provide a claim settlement that lists all covered damage and the approved repair amount. Review this carefully with your roofing contractor to make sure nothing is missing.
Step 7: Supplementing Your Claim If Needed
If your contractor identifies additional damage that wasn’t included in the initial settlement, they can submit a supplement to your insurance company with additional documentation. This is a normal part of the claims process and can result in additional coverage.
What Oklahoma Insurance Policies Typically Cover
- Hail damage to shingles, gutters, flashings, and vents
- Removal of existing roofing materials (tear-off)
- New roofing materials and labor
- Code upgrades required by local building codes
Red Flags to Avoid
Unfortunately, after major storm events in Oklahoma, out-of-state contractors flood the area. Avoid any contractor who:
- Offers to “waive your deductible” (this is insurance fraud and illegal in Oklahoma)
- Asks you to sign over your insurance benefits (Assignment of Benefits)
- Pressures you to sign a contract before the insurance claim is approved
- Cannot provide a local physical address and license information
Need Help With Your Oklahoma Hail Damage Claim?
Oklahoma Roofing Experts has helped hundreds of Oklahoma homeowners navigate the insurance claims process successfully. We provide free inspections, document all damage, and work directly with your adjuster. Call us at (580) 919-1386 for a free inspection anywhere in Oklahoma.