Denied Commercial Hail Damage Claims

When a hailstorm hits, damage to commercial properties can be immediate and long-lasting, destroying roofs, windows, equipment, and ultimately, your bottom line. Unfortunately, insurance companies often make the recovery process more complicated than it should be by downplaying the extent of the damage or denying valid claims outright.  

At Vishio Watkins & Forry, we help businesses nationwide push back. Focusing on commercial property claims, our attorneys work with independent specialists to develop well-supported cases that reflect the real impact of storm damage, helping your business move forward. 

Helping Your Business Recover After a Hailstorm 

Hailstorms can inflict considerable damage on commercial properties, disrupting operations and costing owners considerable repair costs. At Vishio Watkins & Forry, we specialize in guiding businesses through the complexities of hail damage insurance claims, advocating for fair compensation.  

Our commercial hail damage attorneys collaborate with independent engineers and industry experts to accurately assess your damages and ensure your claim reflects the true extent of your losses. Regardless of your location, we are committed to supporting businesses nationwide in securing the compensation they deserve.​ 

Steps to Take in the Aftermath of Hailstorm 

Acting promptly after a hailstorm is crucial for a successful insurance claim. It allows your business to pursue financial compensation and resume operations as quickly as possible.  

After a storm damages your business, you should:   

1. Document the Damage: Capture detailed photographs and videos of all affected areas, including roofs, windows, and exterior structures.​ 
2. Retain Repair Receipts: Keep all invoices and receipts for immediate, emergency repairs needed to prevent further damage. It’s wise to make several copies of these documents as well.  
3. Review Your Insurance Policy: Understand your coverage, including deductibles, exclusions, and deadlines for filing commercial property hail damage claims.  
4. Consult Professionals: Hire qualified contractors or engineers to inspect the damage and deliver detailed reports outlining how your building and equipment have been impacted. 
5. Consult an attorney: Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts or delay the process. An experienced attorney can help you navigate complex policy language, gather the right evidence, and push back against undervalued or denied claims. Without a legal advisor, you may settle for far less than you are entitled to.  

Prompt documentation, temporary repairs, and timely communication with your insurance provider can help prevent further loss and avoid potential claim disputes. Delays may give insurers reason to question the cause or extent of the damage, putting your recovery at risk. 

Hail Damage Insurance Claims on Commercial Property 

Commercial property insurance typically covers a range of hail-related damage, including harm to windows, siding, and exterior equipment. Shattered windows or damaged siding can compromise both the structural integrity and overall protection of the building. Hail can also severely impact HVAC systems and other outdoor equipment, often requiring costly repairs or full replacements to restore proper function. 

Commercial Roofing Hail Damage 

Roof damage is among the most common and costly consequences of hailstorms. Hail can cause dents, punctures, or cracks in roofing materials, leading to leaks and structural concerns.​ Insurance companies may attempt to deny or undervalue roof damage claims by citing reasons such as pre-existing conditions, insufficient evidence, or cosmetic damage.  

It’s important to take a proactive and informed approach to defending against efforts to undervalue or deny your roofing hail damage claim.  

Start by obtaining an independent assessment from a qualified roofing contractor or engineer who can provide a detailed report on the extent of the damage. Document damage, including photographs, repair estimates, and even weather data to substantiate your claim and demonstrate the storm’s impact. 

Knowing your insurance policy’s terms, including coverage limits, exclusions, and filing deadlines, is crucial to avoid common pitfalls. If your claim is delayed, denied, or undervalued, working with a legal team can help you challenge the decision and pursue the compensation your business is entitled to. 

How Vishio Watkins & Forry Can Assist Your Business 

At Vishio Watkins & Forry, we understand businesses’ challenges when dealing with hail damage insurance claims. Here are the top ways we assist commercial business owners after severe hailstorm damage.  

Detailed Claim Evaluation 

We begin by conducting a detailed review of your hail damage and insurance policy. This includes identifying all visible damage and potential issues that may be hidden or easily overlooked, such as underlying structural problems or water intrusion risks. We aim to ensure nothing is missed in the claim process that could affect your long-term recovery. 

Collaboration with Independent Specialists 

We work with a trusted network of independent engineers, roofing consultants, and contractors to strengthen your claim. These professionals provide objective assessments and detailed reports that help document the true extent of your losses, especially when the insurance company’s evaluation falls short. Their input is often crucial in establishing the credibility and accuracy of your claim. 

Legal Representation in Negotiations and Disputes 

Whether you’re facing delays, a lowball offer, or an outright denial, we advocate for your business. Our team handles negotiations with insurers and, when necessary, is fully prepared to escalate the matter through legal channels. From policy interpretation to courtroom litigation, we work to protect your rights and help you pursue the compensation needed to get your operations back on track. 

If your commercial property has suffered hail damage, legal guidance can positively impact your outcome. Dependable and trustworthy, our legal team helps you understand your rights, evaluate your commercial property claim, and take the proper action to secure your business and restore operations. Contact Vishio Watkins & Forry to schedule a consultation today.