Hail season in Colorado can be stressful for homeowners. If you’ve ever wondered how hail affects your home insurance, you’re not alone. Below, we break down the key things every Colorado homeowner should know about hail damage, deductibles, and coverage gaps.
Why Hail Is Colorado’s Most Common Home Insurance Claim
Hail is the most costly and most frequent claim a homeowner will experience in Colorado. From the Front Range to the Western Slope, severe hailstorms can cause thousands of dollars in roof, siding, and gutter damage in a matter of minutes. Understanding your policy before a storm hits is the best way to avoid surprises.
Rising Wind and Hail Deductibles
Most insurance companies have been increasing wind and hail deductibles in Colorado over the past several years. Often, these changes are buried in the renewal packet you receive each year, which means you may not realize your deductible went up until you file a claim. Review your renewal documents carefully every year, or better yet, have your agent review them with you.
Percent Deductibles vs. Flat Deductibles
Percent-based deductibles are becoming more and more common in Colorado. If you have a 1% wind/hail deductible, that amount changes every year as the reconstruction cost of your home increases. For example, if your home is insured for $500,000 and you have a 1% deductible, you’ll pay $5,000 out of pocket before your coverage kicks in. Some policies now carry 2% or even higher deductibles, so it’s important to know exactly where you stand.
Cosmetic Damage Exclusions
In recent years, many carriers have added exclusions for cosmetic hail damage. Think about your roof vents, downspouts, and gutters. If these items get dinged up by hail but are still functional, they may not be covered under your policy. This is an exclusion that catches many homeowners off guard after a storm.
Ordinance and Law Coverage
Ordinance and law coverage was once standard on most home policies, but it is now becoming optional with many carriers. Building codes have changed significantly since most Colorado homes were originally built. Without this coverage, you could be paying out of pocket for updated code requirements like drip edge, ice and water shields, or upgraded ventilation. Make sure this coverage is included in your policy.
How to Protect Yourself Before Hail Season
The best thing you can do is work with an independent insurance agency that can shop your coverage and rates among multiple top-rated companies. An independent agent will help you understand your deductible structure, identify coverage gaps, and find the best fit for your needs and budget.
Ready to review your home insurance before the next hailstorm? Get a free quote from Premier Mountain Insurance or call us at 303.922.1002 today.
