Texas frequently experiences severe hailstorms, leading to significant property damage and complex insurance claims. In May 2025, a series of devastating hailstorms swept across the state, causing widespread destruction.
Notably, on May 28, Austin faced one of its most severe storms, resulting in baseball-sized hail, extensive property damage, flooding, and power outages affecting over 72,000 homes. The destruction ranked as the city’s third worst storm in history, resulting in emergency water rescues and one confirmed fatality.
After a massive storm causes such widespread hail and wind damage, many insurance carriers may refuse to pay your loss in full or deny your claim entirely. Although it is impossible to avoid a natural disaster, you don’t need to be victimized twice. Consult with the expert wind and hail insurance claim attorneys at Florin|Roebig, who will work tirelessly on your behalf to get the payout you deserve for your property damage insurance claim.
This guide breaks down what Texas residents need to know about hail damage insurance claims—and why having the right Texas storm damage lawyer can make all the difference.
The Effects Of Hail Damage In Texas
Hail is a hazardous form of solid precipitation that can cause significant structural damage and, in some cases, personal injury or loss of life. Large chunks of ice called hailstones can fall at speeds between 25 and 40 miles per hour, leading to immense destruction in just a matter of minutes. The May 28, 2025, storm in Austin, Texas, caused significant damage to the Texas Capitol building and Disch-Falk Field at the University of Texas. Additionally, the Texas Hill Country region experienced lemon-sized hail, causing further destruction.
Hailstorms can cause extensive damage to your home, car, and personal property. Many Texas residents have filed insurance claims for the following types of property damage. As you assess your situation, use this list as a guide to determine where damages have occurred.
Residential and Commercial Structures
Many of these items are often covered under a standard insurance policy.
Roof Damage
- Indentations, fractures, or bruises on asphalt shingles
- Displacement or loss of granules, leading to potential leaks
- Possible need for full roof replacement due to compromised integrity
Windows and Siding
- Cracks, chips, or breaks from fast-falling hailstones
- Particularly vulnerable areas during high-impact storms
Skylights
- Susceptible to breakage from wind-driven hail and falling debris
- May require costly repairs or full replacement after a storm
HVAC Systems
- Outdoor air conditioning units may be dented or damaged
- Damage can impact performance and efficiency
Outdoor Furnishings and Landscaping
- Broken patio furniture, damaged fencing, decks, grills, or ruined landscaping features
- Fallen trees and debris that may cause additional property damage
Other Property Features
- Gutters, downspouts, and exterior decor may also sustain damage
Vehicles
Hail damage to vehicles can lead to repair bills totaling thousands of dollars, making comprehensive auto insurance essential for covering these unexpected expenses.
Dents and Dings
- Body panels (hood, roof, trunk, and doors) can be severely dented
- Multiple impact points often require extensive bodywork
Broken or Cracked Glass
- Windshields, side windows, and rear windows may shatter or crack
- Damage can impair visibility and may require full glass replacement
Unprotected Vehicles at Risk
- Cars left outside during a hailstorm are especially vulnerable
- RVs, boats, personal watercraft, and motorcycles may also have policy inclusions or separate insurance policies that cover hail damage
Infrastructure
Hailstorms can severely impact local infrastructure, causing power outages and damage to public facilities, which may lead to issues like food spoilage from refrigerator and freezer failures, disrupted internet and HVAC systems, and other inconveniences that directly affect your home life.
The best way to determine if you are entitled to compensation is to contact one of our top-rated attorneys to set up an initial consultation and request a free hail damage inspection. The highly credible Texas law experts at Florin|Roebig will help you develop your proof of loss to maximize your settlement value.
Types Of Insurance Policies That Cover Hail Damage
When a hailstorm hits, the resulting damage can impact everything from your roof and windows to your car and business operations. While insurance can provide critical financial relief, the type and extent of coverage largely depend on the policy you hold. Here’s how different types of insurance typically address hail-related damage:
Homeowners Insurance
Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies include coverage for hail damage, especially when it affects the structure of your home, such as the roof, siding, windows, gutters, or exterior paint. Some policies may also cover personal property inside the home if the hail causes openings that allow water or debris to enter.
However, not all hail damage is treated equally. Some insurance companies may deny claims for what they classify as “cosmetic damage,” such as dents or chips that don’t affect the function of a structure. Others might apply separate deductibles for hail and wind damage, especially in hail-prone states like Texas.
Auto Insurance
If your vehicle was damaged by hail, whether it was parked in your driveway or caught in a storm on the road, comprehensive auto insurance is what you’ll need. This type of policy typically covers non-collision-related events, including hailstorms. Damage may include:
- Dents in the body or hood
- Cracked or shattered windshields
- Broken mirrors or lights
It’s important to note that liability-only coverage will not cover hail damage to your vehicle, so comprehensive coverage is a must if you want protection from severe weather events.
Commercial Property Insurance
Businesses can also suffer major setbacks due to hailstorms. Commercial property insurance generally covers:
- Structural damage to buildings
- Equipment or inventory losses caused by storm entry
- Repairs to signage, HVAC systems, or storefronts
In addition, many commercial policies include business interruption insurance, which helps cover lost income if your operations are forced to shut down temporarily due to storm damage. This can be a financial lifesaver for small businesses recovering from a significant weather event.
Know What Your Policy Covers
Because hail damage is so common in Texas, insurers often include specific language in their policies about how hail-related claims are handled. It’s critical to:
- Review your declarations page for exclusions or special deductibles
- Understand whether your policy differentiates between functional and cosmetic damage
- Clarify how your coverage works if multiple parts of your property are affected (e.g., roof and siding)
If you’re unsure about what your policy covers or if your insurance company seems to be minimizing or denying your valid hail damage claim, it may be time to speak with an attorney who can review your case and advocate on your behalf.
What To Do After A Hailstorm
Most standard commercial and homeowners’ insurance policies cover structural damage from hail impact under dwelling coverage. However, the insurance company will often do everything in its power to deny or reduce the value of your claim. After a hailstorm, follow these tips to ensure your insurance claim goes smoothly:
Ensure Safety: Carefully inspect your surroundings for potential hazards such as downed power lines, broken glass, sharp debris, or compromised structures like damaged roofs or collapsed gutters. Never attempt to move or go near fallen power lines, as they can be extremely dangerous or even fatal. If you suspect structural damage to your home, such as sagging ceilings, leaks, or weakened walls, evacuate the area and contact emergency services or utility providers immediately. Prioritizing safety in the aftermath of a storm is essential before beginning any cleanup or damage assessment.
Inspect and Document Damage: After the hailstorm has fully subsided and it is safe to go outside, do an initial assessment to determine whether you need to file an insurance claim. Although it is difficult to detect roof damage from the ground, you can start by checking your gutters. Dents and cracks in the gutters are indicators of probable roof damage caused by falling hail. Inspect your siding, windows, and deck. Evaluate all other property that may have been affected and record your findings appropriately. Take photographs and videos of all damages to support your insurance claim.
Review Your Insurance Policy: Read your insurance policy to determine whether the property damage your home sustained is covered under the policy terms. You will also want to know how much your deductible is, as you will have to pay this amount out of pocket towards the overall loss. You will want to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of your policy before filing a claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the hail damage to your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Acting quickly is essential—not only to preserve your rights under the policy, but also because the true extent of storm damage may take weeks or even months to become fully apparent. In states like Texas, strict statutes of limitations apply to property damage claims, so delays can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
Once your claim is filed, your insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to inspect the damage and determine the estimated cost of repairs. These adjusters are trained professionals, but it’s important to document everything yourself and take detailed photos, gather receipts, and keep records of all storm-related losses. Prompt action ensures you’re positioned for a smoother claims process and a fairer outcome.
Seek Professional Inspections: Hire professionals to assess the extent of the damage accurately. Depending on the amount of the loss, it may be beneficial to hire a contractor or public adjuster to get an unbiased opinion on your property damage before filing a claim. Nobody wants to be underpaid on their hail damage claim. Obtaining an independent estimate can help you accurately determine the total amount of damage and gauge whether the insurance company is trying to undermine the value of your claim.
Get Legal Help With Your Claim: Filing a homeowners’ insurance claim for property damage due to a hailstorm can be a stressful, confusing, and time-consuming process. Most policyholders are not well-versed in insurance laws and do not fully understand their contractual rights under their insurance policy. Unfortunately, in the absence of a skilled property damage attorney, most insurance adjusters will use your lack of knowledge against you to pay out as little as possible.
If you are struggling with the claims process, don’t take your chances by searching for “hail damage lawyer near me”. Contact a qualified attorney who specializes in insurance law and hail damage claims, such as one of the attorneys at Florin|Roebig, to schedule a confidential and free consultation.
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When To Hire A Bad Faith Insurance Attorney
Insurance companies seek to minimize claim payouts as part of their regular practice, and the adjusters they employ are well trained in doing so. Sometimes, it can feel like you are getting the runaround from your insurance provider.
If you encounter any of the following issues, it may be time to consult a bad faith insurance attorney:
- Unjustified Denial: Your claim is denied without a valid reason or legal basis.
- Delays: The insurance company is unreasonably delaying the processing of your claim, or you are unable to reach the insurance adjuster assigned to your claim.
- Undervalued Claims: The settlement offered does not cover the actual damage incurred.
- Unable to Reach an Agreement: When you can’t reach an agreement in settlement negotiations with your insurance company, an experienced attorney can help.
Generally speaking, serious damage to homes and businesses usually warrants attorney involvement. Hail encounters can directly affect the resale value of your property and devalue the overall worth of your home. An experienced attorney can help you navigate these challenges and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Don’t let the insurance company trick you into accepting a lowball settlement offer or unfair denial. The legal team at Florin|Roebig has the resources and experience to handle the most complex and expensive hail damage insurance claims.
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FAQs About Hailstorms and Insurance Coverage
Is hail damage common in Texas?
Yes, Texas frequently experiences severe hailstorms, making hail damage a common issue for property owners.
What should I do immediately after a hailstorm?
Ensure your safety, document all damages, and contact your insurance company promptly.
How long do I have to file a claim?
While Texas law allows up to two years, many insurance policies require claims to be filed within one year of the damage.
What if my claim is denied?
If you believe your claim was unjustly denied, consult with a bad faith insurance attorney to explore your legal options.
Get Experienced Help From Florin|Roebig Attorneys
Navigating hail damage insurance claims can be complex and challenging. Understanding your policy, documenting damages thoroughly, and seeking professional legal assistance when necessary are crucial steps to ensure you receive fair compensation. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you—know your rights and take action to protect your interests.
Florin|Roebig is a law firm with extensive experience in handling hail damage insurance claims in Texas. With a proven track record of securing over $1 billion in case results, our team is dedicated to ensuring clients receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Contact Us Today For A Free Case Review
Since 1985, the law firm Florin|Roebig has collected millions of dollars against bad faith insurance companies. If you’re a Texas home or business owner and have recently sustained property damage caused by wind or hail, you want a dedicated attorney on your side to protect your most valuable asset.
If you’re facing difficulties with your hail damage insurance claim, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Our experienced attorneys are here to provide a free case review and guide you through the process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
With offices in Texas, we are currently serving all policyholders statewide, including those who live in the following cities:
- Houston
- Dallas
- Austin
- San Antonio
- Fort Worth
- McAllen
Call us toll free at the phone number above for real-time assistance, or complete our online contact form for a quick response from the Florin|Roebig team.
