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 On a humid summer evening in Edmond, the Thompsons were finishing dinner when the sound of pounding hail hit their roof like a freight train. By morning, their shingles were dented, their siding was scarred, and the back patio window was cracked. The cleanup was overwhelming, but the bigger question loomed: would their home insurance cover the repairs, or would they be stuck footing the bill? If you live in Oklahoma City or the surrounding area, hailstorms are not a rare event—they’re a regular threat. Oklahoma ranks among the top states for hail damage claims, with storms rolling through each year that leave homes battered and homeowners scrambling. Understanding how your policy works can save you thousands and help you sleep easier when the next round of storms blows in. Why Hail Damage Is Such a Big Deal in OklahomaHail may look harmless once it hits the ground, but when it falls at the speed of 40–50 miles per hour, it can cause devastating destruction. For Oklahoma homeowners, here’s why hail damage is especially concerning:
With Oklahoma’s mix of severe thunderstorms and tornado activity, hail is often part of the package, meaning most homeowners will experience damage at some point. How Home Insurance Covers Hail DamageMost standard homeowners insurance policies in Oklahoma include hail as a covered peril. That means when hail damages your roof, siding, or windows, your policy should help pay for repairs or replacement. But the details matter, and not all coverage is the same. Roof Damage Coverage For many, the roof is the first and hardest-hit area. Insurance generally covers roof repairs or replacement if hail damage is significant. However, some policies distinguish between:
Siding and Exterior Coverage Hail doesn’t just hit roofs—it can batter vinyl siding, chip paint, or dent aluminum. Most home insurance policies cover exterior damage, but some limit how much they’ll pay if only part of the siding is damaged and cannot be matched with the rest. Windows and Skylights Broken windows and skylights are often included, but policies may require immediate steps like boarding up openings to prevent further damage. Common Exclusions and LimitationsWhile hail damage is usually covered, there are a few catches homeowners should watch for. Cosmetic Damage ClausesSome insurers in hail-prone states have added exclusions for cosmetic damage. That means dents or marks that don’t affect the function of your roof or siding may not be covered—even if they hurt your home’s curb appeal or resale value. Roof Age LimitationsIf your roof is older, some policies reduce or deny coverage. For example, roofs over 15 years old may only be covered at actual cash value rather than replacement cost. Deductibles for Wind and HailIn Oklahoma, many policies have separate, higher deductibles for wind and hail damage. Instead of a flat $1,000 deductible, you might face a percentage-based deductible—often 1–2% of your home’s insured value. On a $250,000 home, that could mean $2,500 to $5,000 out of pocket before coverage kicks in. What to Do After a Hailstorm in Oklahoma CityWhen the storm clears, homeowners should act quickly to protect their property and make the claims process smoother. Document the DamageTake photos and videos of your roof, siding, and windows. Include wide shots and close-ups. Prevent Further DamageBoard up windows, cover roof holes with tarps, and clean up any glass or debris that could cause injury. Contact Your Insurance AgentFile your claim promptly, and lean on your agent to walk you through the next steps. Adjusters may be overwhelmed after a major storm, so acting fast matters. Get a Professional InspectionEven if your roof looks fine, hail can cause subtle damage that worsens over time. A professional inspection ensures hidden problems don’t get missed. Why a Policy Review MattersHailstorms in Oklahoma aren’t going away, and construction costs are rising. The last thing you want is to find out during a claim that your deductible is too high or your roof is only covered at actual cash value. That’s why now is the time to review your policy. Ask questions like:
Protecting Your Oklahoma Home from the Next StormEvery hailstorm is a reminder that Oklahoma homeowners live in one of the most weather-challenged parts of the country. While you can’t stop the hail from falling, you can make sure your home insurance is strong enough to cover the damage it leaves behind. Oklahoma Insurance Professionals, based right here in Oklahoma City, works with homeowners to review, adjust, and strengthen their coverage. Whether it’s your roof, siding, or windows at risk, we’ll help you understand what’s in your policy and what changes can keep your finances protected when the next storm arrives. Reach out today for a home insurance review with Oklahoma Insurance Professionals—because peace of mind is worth more than hoping your roof will hold up.
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