People are currently reading this guide.
Dealing with hail damage to your roof can be a stressful experience, especially when you're trying to figure out what your insurance will cover. If you're an Allstate policyholder, you're likely wondering: how many hail hits does it take for Allstate to replace your roof? The truth is, there isn't a magic number of hail hits that automatically triggers a full roof replacement. Instead, Allstate, like other insurance companies, assesses "functional damage" caused by hail. This guide will walk you through the process, helping you understand what to expect and how to navigate your claim.
Are you ready to dive in and learn how to get your roof replaced after hail damage with Allstate? Let's get started!
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
Step 1: Initial Assessment – Is There Even Damage?
Before you even think about calling Allstate, you need to do your own preliminary assessment. Safety first! Do not climb onto your roof if you are not comfortable or if conditions are unsafe. If possible, inspect your roof from the ground with binoculars.
QuickTip: Scan the start and end of paragraphs.
Sub-heading: What to Look For
- Dented Gutters, Downspouts, and Roof Vents: Hail often leaves visible dents and dings on softer metal surfaces before it causes significant damage to shingles. These are strong indicators of hail impact.
- Missing Granules: Check your gutters and downspouts. If you see an unusually large accumulation of shingle granules, it's a sign your shingles have been impacted and are losing their protective layer.
- Dents on Shingles: Look for circular or irregular indentations on your asphalt shingles. These may expose the darker asphalt layers underneath the protective granules.
- Cracked or Broken Shingles: Severe hail can crack or even break shingles, creating obvious points of vulnerability for water intrusion.
- Damage to Other Exterior Components: Don't forget to check siding, decks, and even outdoor furniture for hail damage. This can further support your claim for roof damage.
Sub-heading: Document Everything
- Photos and Videos: Take clear, well-lit photos and videos of any suspected hail damage. Capture wide shots of your roof and close-ups of specific damaged areas. Date and time-stamp them if possible.
- Date of Occurrence: Note the exact date and approximate time the hailstorm occurred. This is crucial for your claim.
- Weather Conditions: Document any notable weather conditions during and immediately after the storm.
 |
| How Many Hail Hits To Replace Roof Allstate |
Step 2: Contact Allstate and File Your Claim
Once you have a good understanding of the potential damage, it's time to contact Allstate. The sooner you report the damage, the better.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Sub-heading: How to File Your Claim
- Call Allstate's Claims Number: You can typically find this on your policy documents or on the Allstate website. For property claims, you can generally call 1-800-255-7828.
- File Online or via Mobile App: Allstate offers convenient ways to file claims through their website or mobile app. This allows you to upload photos and track your claim's progress.
- Provide Details: Be prepared to provide your policy number, the date of the storm, a description of the damage, and any photos you've taken.
Sub-heading: What Happens After Filing
- You'll receive a claim number to track the progress of your claim.
- Allstate will typically assign a claims adjuster or an inspection vendor to your case.
Step 3: The Allstate Adjuster's Inspection
This is a critical step. An Allstate adjuster or an approved vendor will come to your property to assess the damage.
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
 |
Sub-heading: What the Adjuster Looks For
Allstate adjusters are trained to identify functional damage, meaning damage that compromises the integrity or lifespan of your roof, not just cosmetic imperfections. They will often use a "test square" method.
- Test Squares: Adjusters typically mark off 10-foot by 10-foot "test squares" on different slopes of your roof. Within these squares, they count the number of hail impacts that meet their criteria for functional damage. While there's no official "magic number" published by Allstate, many insurance companies consider 7-10 "functional" hail hits within a 10x10 square foot area to be sufficient for a slope replacement.
- Granule Loss: Significant granule loss that exposes the asphalt matting of the shingle can lead to accelerated aging and compromise the shingle's protective qualities.
- Cracks and Fractures: Hail can cause cracks that weaken the shingle and allow water to penetrate.
- Bruising of Shingle Mat: Even if the shingle isn't visibly cracked, a severe hail impact can "bruise" the underlying mat, reducing its effectiveness.
- Soft Metal Damage: Dents on gutters, downspouts, and other metal components are often used as supporting evidence of significant hail activity.
Sub-heading: Should Your Contractor Be Present?
- It is highly recommended to have a reputable roofing contractor present during the adjuster's inspection. They can point out damage the adjuster might miss and advocate for your best interests. A good contractor will understand insurance claims and can speak the same "language" as the adjuster.
Step 4: Reviewing the Estimate and Understanding Your Policy
After the inspection, Allstate will provide an estimate of the covered damages.
Sub-heading: Understanding Your Policy and Deductible
- Deductible: Your homeowner's insurance policy will have a deductible, which is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before Allstate's coverage kicks in. For hail damage, this is typically a set dollar amount (e.g., $1,000) or a percentage of your dwelling coverage.
- Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV):
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): This pays for the depreciated value of your roof. As your roof ages, its value decreases. If your policy is ACV, you'll receive a payment based on the roof's current worth, and you'll be responsible for the difference to replace it with a new one.
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV): This is generally the more favorable option. With RCV, Allstate will initially pay the ACV, and then once the repairs are completed and you provide proof (e.g., invoices from your contractor), they will release the remaining depreciation, allowing you to replace your roof with new materials of similar kind and quality.
- Endorsements: Some policies have specific endorsements, like a "Roof Surfaces Endorsement," which might provide additional protection or alter how certain roof issues are covered. Review your policy carefully.
Sub-heading: Discrepancies and Negotiations
- If your contractor's estimate differs significantly from Allstate's, or if you believe the adjuster missed damage, don't hesitate to communicate. Your contractor can often provide additional documentation or reasoning to the adjuster.
- You have the right to appeal Allstate's decision if you believe your claim was wrongfully denied or undervalued. This might involve providing more evidence or even seeking legal counsel.
Step 5: Repair or Replacement and Payment
Once the estimate is agreed upon, the repair or replacement process can begin.
Sub-heading: Choosing a Contractor
- Allstate has a "Good Hands® Repair Network" of approved vendors, but you are generally free to choose your own contractor.
- Always get multiple estimates from licensed, bonded, and insured roofing contractors. Check their references and reviews.
- Be wary of contractors who pressure you into signing agreements quickly or offer to waive your deductible (this is often insurance fraud).
Sub-heading: Payment Process
- Allstate will typically issue payments directly to you or, if you choose, to your contractor.
- For RCV policies, the initial payment will be the ACV, and the depreciation holdback will be released after proof of completion.
Step 6: Finalizing Your Claim
Once the work is complete, ensure all documentation is submitted to Allstate.
Sub-heading: Completing the Process
- Provide your adjuster with the certificate of completion from your contractor and any final invoices.
- Confirm that all payments have been received and your claim is closed.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to file a hail damage claim with Allstate?
- You can file a claim by calling Allstate's claims number (e.g., 1-800-255-7828), logging into your account on their website, or using the Allstate mobile app. Have your policy number and the date of loss ready.
How to prepare for an Allstate roof inspection after hail?
- Document all visible damage with photos and videos, clear your property for safe access, and ideally, have your chosen roofing contractor present during the inspection.
How to understand my Allstate home insurance deductible for hail damage?
- Your deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before Allstate covers the rest. It's listed on your policy declarations and can be a fixed amount or a percentage of your dwelling coverage.
How to determine if my roof has enough hail damage for Allstate to cover replacement?
- Allstate adjusters look for "functional damage" that compromises the roof's integrity, often using a "test square" method. While there's no fixed number, evidence of significant impacts that affect the shingle's lifespan (e.g., granule loss, bruising, cracking) across multiple slopes is key.
How to choose a reputable roofing contractor for an Allstate claim?
- Get multiple bids, check for proper licensing, bonding, and insurance, read reviews, and avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront or offer to waive your deductible.
How to appeal an Allstate hail damage claim denial?
- Carefully read the denial letter to understand the reason. Gather additional evidence, get an independent inspection or estimate, and formally appeal the decision with Allstate. Consider seeking advice from a public adjuster or attorney if needed.
How to get full replacement cost for my roof with Allstate?
- This depends on your policy type. If you have Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage, Allstate will initially pay the Actual Cash Value (ACV) and then release the depreciation holdback once repairs are completed and proof is submitted.
How to prevent further damage to my roof after a hailstorm while waiting for Allstate's assessment?
- Make temporary, reasonable repairs to prevent additional damage (e.g., tarping damaged areas). Document these repairs with photos and keep all receipts, as these costs may be reimbursable.
How to track the status of my Allstate hail damage claim?
- You can track your claim's status by logging into your Allstate online account or mobile app using the claim number provided when you filed. You can also call their claims department for updates.
How to ensure my Allstate adjuster and contractor are on the same page?
- Facilitate communication between them. Share your contractor's estimate with your adjuster, and encourage your contractor to be present during the adjuster's inspection to discuss the scope of work directly.
 |
