Why You Need Wind and Hail Coverage in Oklahoma
Written by Joshua Miner, local independent insurance agent at Miner Family Insurance in Edmond, OK.
In Oklahoma, a hailstorm or high wind will hit your home sooner or later. Wind and hail cause more home insurance claims here than almost anything else. That's why wind and hail coverage is one of the most important parts of your policy.
Here's how it works, how your wind and hail deductible affects your claim, and how to protect your home.
What Is Wind and Hail Coverage?
Wind and hail coverage pays to repair damage to your home caused by high winds or hailstones. Most Oklahoma home policies come with it. But some policies exclude it or limit it, so it's important to check.
It can cover damage such as:
- Dented, cracked, or missing roof shingles
- Broken windows and skylights
- Damaged siding and gutters
- Fences, sheds, and other structures
- Trees that fall on your home during a storm
- Interior damage when wind or hail breaks through the roof or windows
How Does a Wind and Hail Deductible Work?
Many Oklahoma policies have a separate wind and hail deductible. Instead of a flat dollar amount, it's often a percentage of your dwelling coverage, like 1%, 2%, or 5%.
Here's an example. Say your home has $300,000 in dwelling coverage and a 2% wind and hail deductible. You would pay the first $6,000 of a hail claim. A flat $1,000 deductible might apply to other claims, like fire or theft.
A higher deductible lowers your premium. But make sure you could pay it after a big storm.
Why Is Oklahoma Hail Insurance So Important?
Oklahoma sees some of the most frequent and severe hailstorms in the country. Large hail can damage a roof in minutes. Strong straight-line winds and tornadoes add even more risk.
Oklahoma hail insurance matters because:
- A new roof can cost $10,000 to $25,000 or more
- Hail damage isn't always easy to see from the ground
- Storms often hit many homes at once, raising repair costs
- Most mortgage lenders require it
How Do You File a Hail Damage Roof Insurance Claim?
If you think hail hit your roof, take these steps for a smooth hail damage roof insurance claim:
- Check for damage safely from the ground. Look for dented gutters, vents, and siding.
- Take photos and videos of any damage.
- Make temporary repairs, like tarping a leak, to prevent more damage.
- Call your agent or carrier to start the claim.
- Meet the adjuster when they inspect your roof.
- Get repair estimates from a trusted local roofer.
Be careful with storm chasers who knock on doors after a hailstorm. Always check that a roofer is local and licensed before signing anything.
How Does Roof Age Affect Your Claim?
Many carriers now pay older roofs differently. Some pay replacement cost for newer roofs but actual cash value for roofs over a certain age. That means a smaller check because the roof has lost value with age.
Ask your agent how your policy pays for roof damage. A newer roof can mean better claim payments and a lower premium.
How Can You Protect Your Home From Wind and Hail?
A few smart steps can reduce damage and may lower your premium:
- Install Class 4 impact-resistant shingles when you replace your roof
- Trim trees and remove dead branches near your home
- Secure patio furniture, grills, and trampolines before storms
- Park cars in a garage when hail is forecast
- Keep gutters clean so water drains away
Frequently Asked Questions
Does homeowners insurance cover hail damage?
Most Oklahoma homeowners policies include wind and hail coverage. But check your policy for exclusions and your wind and hail deductible.
What is a good wind and hail deductible?
Many homeowners choose 1% or 2%. Pick an amount you could pay after a big storm.
How long do I have to file a hail claim?
It depends on your policy. Many carriers require claims within one to two years of the storm, but filing sooner is always better.
Will filing a hail claim raise my rates?
Weather claims usually hurt your rate less than other claims. But it depends on your carrier and your claims history.
Check Your Wind and Hail Coverage With Us
We're Miner Family Insurance, a local, independent agency in Edmond. We'll review your wind and hail coverage and deductible and compare more than 50 carriers. Call (405) 724-2389 or request a home insurance quote online.
