For many homeowners, one of the biggest surprises after storm damage isn’t the damage itself—it’s discovering just how much they’re expected to pay out of pocket.
Over the past several years, insurance policies have changed significantly. Many companies now use percentage-based deductibles for wind and hail claims instead of traditional flat-dollar deductibles. That means your deductible could be thousands of dollars higher than you expected.
The good news? A little preparation today can help prevent an expensive surprise tomorrow.
What Has Changed?
Years ago, many homeowners carried deductibles like:
- $500
- $1,000
- $2,500
Today, it’s becoming increasingly common for policies to include:
- 1% deductible
- 2% deductible
- 3% deductible
- Separate Wind & Hail deductibles
- Percentage deductibles based on your home’s insured value
For example:
If your home is insured for $500,000 and your wind/hail deductible is 2%, your deductible would be:
$10,000
Many homeowners don’t realize this until they file a claim.
Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask Their Insurance Agent
Instead of waiting until after a storm, ask your insurance agent these questions today:
Is it a flat dollar amount or a percentage?
This can make a significant difference in how much your insurance pays.
Some policies cover functional damage but not cosmetic damage.
Many policies have separate deductibles for different types of storms.
Many insurance carriers offer discounts for qualifying Class 4 impact-resistant shingles.
Policy changes often happen at renewal, and many homeowners don’t realize anything has changed.
Don’t panic.
You still have options.
Financing
Many homeowners choose financing options to help manage out-of-pocket home improvement costs.
Upgrade During Replacement
If your roof needs replacing, consider upgrading to Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. There are many more upgrade options as well. Ask about stone-coated steel, Euroshield and metal roofing choices. Besides offering better protection, many insurance companies provide premium discounts that may help offset the investment over time.
The best time to understand your deductible isn’t after a storm—it’s before one happens.
Review your policy annually and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Why a Professional Roof Inspection Still Matters
Not every storm requires an insurance claim.
An experienced roofing contractor can inspect your roof and explain what they’re seeing before you contact your insurance company. In many cases, a minor repair may be all that’s needed.
At A-R Roofing, we believe homeowners deserve honest recommendations—not unnecessary claims. If your roof can be repaired safely and effectively, we’ll tell you. If replacement is truly the best option, we’ll walk you through the process and help you understand what to expect every step of the way.
Superior Residential Roofing Services In Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Missouri
Final Thoughts
Insurance policies continue to evolve, and homeowners are often unaware of changes until they need to file a claim. Taking a few minutes to understand your deductible, your coverage, and your options today can save you thousands of dollars—and a great deal of stress—in the future.
Whether your roof has recently weathered a storm or you simply want peace of mind, a professional inspection and a conversation about your insurance coverage can help you make informed decisions before the next storm arrives.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended as insurance or legal advice. Insurance policies vary by carrier and coverage. Always review your policy and consult your insurance agent regarding your specific coverage and deductible.
