How to File a Hail Damage Insurance Claim in Calgary
Filing a hail damage claim can feel overwhelming — but the process is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Here’s exactly what to do.
Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately
The day after the hail event (or as soon as it’s safe):
- Photograph every side of your home
- Get ground-level photos of your roof from multiple angles
- Photograph siding, windows, eavestroughs, garage door
- Document vehicles, deck, AC unit, yard structures
- Save photos or videos of the storm itself
- Save news articles or weather service bulletins confirming the event
- Note the exact date and approximate time of the storm
Step 2: Review Your Insurance Policy
Before calling, check your policy for:
- Deductible amount (typically $1,000-$5,000 for hail)
- Coverage limits on roof, siding, windows
- Filing deadlines (usually 30-90 days)
- Exclusions (some policies exclude cosmetic damage)
Step 3: Call Your Insurance Provider
When you call, have ready:
- Your policy number
- Date and time of the hail event
- Description of visible damage
- Photos (ready to email)
You’ll receive a claim number — write it down. The insurance company will schedule an adjuster visit, usually within 1-3 weeks.
Step 4: Get a Professional Inspection
Before the adjuster arrives, have a reputable roofer inspect your home. This serves two purposes:
- You know the full scope of damage before the adjuster arrives
- The contractor can attend the adjuster meeting and advocate for complete repairs
A good contractor will provide free inspections during hail season.
Step 5: Meet with the Adjuster
The insurance adjuster will:
- Climb your roof and examine damage
- Document damage with photos
- Measure the severity
- Prepare a scope of work and estimate
Have your contractor present if possible. They can spot damage the adjuster misses.
Step 6: Review the Adjuster’s Report
The adjuster’s report will include:
- Itemized list of damages and repairs
- Estimated cost
- Your deductible
- Depreciation (if ACV policy)
- Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
Don’t sign anything immediately. Review with your contractor first.
Step 7: Choose Your Contractor
Avoid storm-chasers. Choose a contractor who:
- Has a physical Calgary business
- Can work directly with your insurance company
- Provides written estimates and contracts
- Has proper insurance and WCB coverage
- Offers workmanship warranty
Step 8: File Supplementals If Needed
If your contractor finds additional damage during work, they file a supplemental claim with your insurance. This is normal and expected.
Step 9: Receive Payment
Most Calgary insurance companies pay in 2 installments:
- ACV payment: Issued upfront (minus your deductible)
- Depreciation: Released after work is completed and invoiced
Common Claim Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to file — claims can be denied past the deadline
- Settling too quickly — review all damages before signing
- Using storm-chaser contractors — they leave town after the job
- Skipping the contractor at adjuster meeting — you lose an advocate
- Not getting multiple opinions — second contractor inspection is often worthwhile
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