Is it illegal for a roofer to waive my deductible in Texas?

Yes. Under Texas House Bill 2102, it is a criminal offense for a contractor to waive, absorb, or offset an insurance deductible. Homeowners and contractors in DFW must comply with this law to avoid deductible fraud.

How can I tell if my Lewisville home has hail damage?

Common signs of hail damage in North Texas include dark shingle bruising, heavy granule loss in gutters, and dents on metal roof vents or chimney caps. A professional drone inspection is recommended for an accurate assessment.

How long do I have to file a roof claim in DFW?

Most Texas insurance policies allow for 12 to 24 months from the date of the storm to file a claim. However, residents in the DFW metroplex should file as soon as possible to prevent secondary leaks and water damage.

How to Identify Roof Storm Damage in North Texas: A Homeowner’s Guide

Nicholas Brock
Jan 20
3 min read

Whether you are in Lewisville, Houston, or anywhere across the DFW Metroplex, Texas weather is notoriously tough on residential and commercial roofs. Between baseball-sized hail and 70+ mph wind gusts, damage is often inevitable.

But how do you know if your roof needs a simple repair or a full replacement? This guide will help you spot the signs of damage and explain how to navigate the insurance process.

Quick Summary: Signs of Roof Damage

If you suspect storm damage, look for shingle bruising, significant granule loss (black spots), or dented metal vents. In North Texas, the most reliable way to confirm damage is through a professional drone inspection, as many leaks stay hidden behind the decking for months before appearing on your ceiling.

Top 4 Signs of Hail and Wind Damage

Bruising: These are dark, soft spots on shingles that feel like a bruised apple.

Close-up of shingle bruising from hail damage on a Lewisville TX home. — Shingles display bruising marks from hail impact on a roof.

Granule Loss: If you see piles of "sand" in your downspouts, your shingles have lost their UV protection.

Roof granule loss in gutters after a DFW hailstorm, inspected by Stand Up Roofing. — Shingles demonstrating significant granule loss, indicating potential wear and the need for maintenance or replacement.

Dented Soft Metals: Check your chimney caps, vents, and gutters for small dings.

Dented gutters showing storm damage in North Texas. — Visible hail damage on the gutter downspout, highlighting the impact of severe weather on home exteriors.

Lifted or Missing Shingles: High winds break the sealant strip. Even if it isn't "gone," a lifted shingle will leak.

A rooftop shingle has been lifted, exposing the underlayer, likely due to strong winds.

Why Local Expertise Matters in Lewisville & Houston

A "storm chaser" from out of state might not understand the specific building codes in Denton County or the humidity challenges in Harris County.

At Stand Up Roofing, we live and work here. We recommend materials like Owens Corning Duration® shingles specifically because they are designed to withstand the "Triple Threat" of Texas weather: intense UV rays, high humidity, and severe storms.

The 3-Step Storm Recovery Process

Document the Date: Insurance companies require a "Date of Loss."
Get a Professional Inspection: Avoid climbing on a steep roof yourself. We use high-resolution drone technology to capture every angle safely.
File Your Claim with Confidence: We advocate for the homeowner and can be present when the insurance adjuster arrives.

The Law: Paying Your Deductible in Texas

It is important for homeowners to know that Texas law (HB 2102) requires all policyholders to pay their full insurance deductible. Beware of any "storm chaser" who offers to "waive your deductible" or "absorb the cost." In the state of Texas, it is a Class B misdemeanor for a contractor to offer to pay or waive a deductible. Furthermore, insurance companies now frequently require proof of payment (such as a receipt or canceled check) before they will release the final "Recoverable Depreciation" check to finish paying for your roof.

At Stand Up Roofing, we do things the right way. We provide transparent invoicing and can offer financing options if your deductible is a heavy lift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover an older roof for hail damage? Yes. In Texas, insurance typically covers wind and hail damage regardless of the roof's age, depending on your specific policy type (RCV vs. ACV).
How long do I have to file a claim in Texas? Most policies allow for 12 to 24 months, but waiting can lead to mold or interior damage that may not be covered.
Is it illegal for a roofer to cover my deductible? Yes. Per Texas House Bill 2102, both the contractor and the homeowner can face legal penalties for deductible fraud.