In New York, we see all kinds of weather. From strong winds to hailstorms, the weather can really hurt our homes, especially the roof. One of the most common problems after a big storm is roof damage. Shingles blow off, leaks start, and sometimes the whole roof needs to be replaced.
But here’s the problem: even though roof damage is common, insurance companies don’t always want to pay. They might delay your claim, offer too little money, or even say your damage isn’t covered. That’s why many people in New York need help to fight back and get the money they deserve.
Let’s talk about why hail and wind roof damage are a big deal, and what you can do if your insurance company says “no.”
But here’s the problem: even though roof damage is common, insurance companies don’t always want to pay. They might delay your hail damage claim, offer too little money, or even say your property damage claim isn’t covered. That’s why many homeowners in New York need help to fight back and get the money they deserve.
But here’s the problem: even though roof damage is common, insurance companies don’t always want to pay. They might delay your hail damage claim, offer too little money, or even say your property damage claim isn’t covered. That’s why many homeowners in New York need help to fight back and get the money they deserve.
Let’s talk about why hail and wind roof damage is a big deal, and what you can do if your insurance company says “no.”
What Can Hail and Wind Damage Do to Your Roof?
Severe weather like wind and hail can hit fast and leave behind a mess. When strong winds hit your roof, they can lift or tear off shingles. That leaves parts of your home open to rain, which can lead to leaks and further damage inside.
Hail damage is even worse; it’s like hard ice balls falling from the sky. It can crack shingles, dent metal, and even damage flashing around chimneys or vents. These issues may seem small at first, but if not fixed, they can cause structural damage and mold later on.
Here are some signs your roof might have storm damage:
- Missing or broken shingles
- Leaks or wet spots on your ceiling
- Dents in gutters or vents
- Pieces of roofing found in your yard
Even if the visible damage looks small, it’s important to act fast. Waiting can lead to further damage, such as rot, mold, and even fire damage, if electrical wiring is affected.
Tornado and Flood Damage in New York
While New York isn’t known for tornadoes, they do happen, and when they hit, they can completely destroy roofs. Tornado damage causes massive destruction in a short time. If a tornado damages your home, you’ll likely need a full roof replacement and help with your property damage claim.
Flood damage is also a major issue. When storms bring heavy rain, water can leak through the roof or walls and ruin the inside of your home. Even though flood damage may not affect the roof itself, it’s often tied to storm-related roof damage. Unfortunately, many standard insurance policies don’t automatically cover floods, so you may need extra coverage or legal help.
Hurricane Damage and Roof Trouble in New York
New York doesn’t get hurricanes every year, but when we do, the results can be devastating. Hurricane damage claims are often complex. These storms bring heavy wind and rain, and they can completely lift off sections of roofing, cause widespread leaks, or damage roof structures.
Many property owners find that their insurance adjuster downplays the damage or blames it on something else. If your home suffered hurricane damage, make sure to take photos, save records, and file your storm damage insurance claim as soon as possible.
Isn’t Roof Damage Covered by Insurance?
You would think so, right? After all, that’s why we pay for insurance. Most people believe their homeowners insurance will take care of roof damage after a storm.
And it should. Many policies say they cover wind and hail damage claims. But the claims process is not always easy.
Insurance companies might:
- Say the damage is “just cosmetic.”
- Claim it’s from “old age” or “wear and tear”
- Ask you to wait for another inspection
- Offer less money than needed to repair structural damage
- Deny the claim completely
This is known as a claim denial, and it’s incredibly frustrating—especially when you know the damage came directly from the storm.
Why Do Insurance Companies Deny Roof Damage Claims?
Insurance companies are businesses. That means they try to save money wherever they can. If they can find a reason not to pay your storm damage insurance claim, they will.
Here are some excuses they often use:
- “Your roof was already damaged before the storm.”
- “It’s only a few shingles - no big deal.”
- “The damage is normal wear and tear, not storm related.”
- “The hail didn’t cause enough damage to need a full replacement.”
Sometimes they use tricky language in your policy to confuse you. They might say your roof is “too old,” or argue that your hail damage claim doesn’t qualify unless a leak was visible right away. These tactics are examples of bad faith insurance practices.
That’s why it helps to have a property damage lawyer or public adjuster look at your property damage claim. An attorney can review your policy under New York law, help prove liability, and guide you through the claims process.
Steps to Take After Roof Damage from a Storm
If your roof gets hit by hail or wind, you need to act fast. Follow these steps:
Take Pictures Right Away
Snap photos of all visible damage - missing shingles, dents, leaks, or broken gutters. This is your proof.
Save Everything
Keep receipts for repairs or materials. If you hire someone for temporary fixes, save that paperwork. It strengthens your property damage claim.
Call a Roof Inspector
A professional can spot types of damages you might miss from the ground. This helps build your case and prove structural damage.
Contact Your Insurance Company
File your storm damage insurance claim right away. The longer you wait, the easier it is for them to give you a claim denial.
Talk to a Property Damage Lawyer (Like Us!)
If your insurer delays, lowballs, or denies your hail damage claim, we can help. We understand insurance disputes, and we know how to fight for you.
We Help New Yorkers Fight Unfair Insurance Claims
At Vargas Gonzalez Delombard, LLP, we help New Yorkers stand up to unfair insurance companies. Roof damage from wind, hail, or hurricanes should be covered, but insurers don’t always play fair.
We understand the claims process, know how to read confusing policy language, and are experienced in handling insurance disputes. Whether you’re facing bad faith insurance practices, claim denial, or delays, we’ve got your back.
Our legal team works hard to get you the money you need for repairs or a full roof replacement. And you don’t pay us unless we win.
Need Help with a Roof Damage Claim in NY?
If your home or commercial building was damaged by wind, hail, or another natural disaster, and your hail damage claim or property damage claim is denied or delayed, don’t wait.
Let us help you recover from roof damage, fight back against bad faith insurance practices, and get what you’re owed under New York law. Our team is here to protect your rights and prove the liability where needed.
Call us today or visit vargasgonzalez.com for a free consultation.
