When to file (almost always yes)
File the claim if any of these apply:
- Multiple slopes show hail damage (8+ bruises in a 10x10 test square)
- More than a handful of shingles missing or creased from wind
- An interior leak is active
- Soft metal damage is widespread (gutters, AC fins, vent caps all dented)
- The damage estimate from a contractor is more than 2x your deductible
- Storm event was widespread (NOAA-confirmed hail or severe storm in your zip)
When NOT to file
Skip the claim and pay out-of-pocket if:
- Damage is localized to one section and the repair estimate is below or near your deductible
- Your roof is under 5 years old and damage is cosmetic only
- You've filed two or more claims in the past 3 years (a third claim is likely to trigger non-renewal in many markets)
- There's no documented storm event you can tie the damage to (your claim will get denied as 'wear and tear' anyway)
How a claim affects your premium
A single weather-related (non-fault) claim typically does NOT raise your premium directly. But it can affect future eligibility:
- Most carriers don't surcharge for the first weather claim
- Two claims in 3 years often triggers a surcharge or non-renewal review
- Three claims almost always means non-renewal — you'll need to find a new carrier, often at higher rates
- Claim history follows you via CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) — every carrier sees it for 7 years
The deductible math
Run this math first. Get a contractor estimate. Subtract your deductible. If the difference is less than ~$1,500, the claim probably isn't worth filing — the time investment, paperwork, and carrier scrutiny aren't worth a small payout. The math becomes overwhelmingly favorable when the estimate exceeds your deductible by $5,000+.
Public adjuster: yes or no?
A public adjuster works for you (not the insurance company) and typically charges 10-15% of the settlement. They're worth it for: large claims ($20k+), denied claims being appealed, or homeowners who don't have time to manage the process. They're NOT worth it for clear-cut small claims where the carrier's first offer is reasonable.