I’ve run into the same skepticism with insurance companies, even after upgrading to Class 4 impact shingles. They’ll tout the discounts for “impact-resistant” materials, but when it comes time to file a claim, it’s like they suddenly forget what those ratings mean. Had a client with a metal roof—also Class 4—who still had to jump through hoops after a hailstorm. The adjuster tried to argue that “cosmetic” dents didn’t count as damage, even though the policy didn’t spell that out anywhere.
That said, I’ve noticed some carriers are more straightforward than others. The inspection report seems to carry a lot of weight, especially if you can show before-and-after photos or documentation from the installer. It’s not a magic bullet, but it does help your case.
I wouldn’t say the savings are huge, but every bit helps with rising premiums these days. Just keep all your paperwork handy and don’t be afraid to push back if they start splitting hairs over what counts as “damage.” It’s frustrating, but I guess that’s just part of dealing with insurance...
The adjuster tried to argue that “cosmetic” dents didn’t count as damage, even though the policy didn’t spell that out anywhere.
Yeah, that “cosmetic damage” loophole is a classic. I’ve seen folks with standing seam metal roofs get the same runaround—hail leaves a bunch of dents, but unless it’s leaking or structurally compromised, the adjuster shrugs it off. Meanwhile, the roof looks like it’s been through a war zone. It’s wild how much interpretation goes into what counts as “damage.”
I do agree, documentation is huge. I keep a folder with every inspection report, warranty, and even the receipts for my green roof install. It’s a pain, but when the insurance company starts nitpicking, having that stuff ready makes a difference. Still, I wish the discounts were more than just a token gesture—my “impact-resistant” premium drop barely covered a pizza night.
Guess at the end of the day, insurance is just another game of who’s got the better paperwork. At least my energy bills are lower with the new roof... small wins, right?
- Had the same thing happen with my asphalt shingles after a hailstorm—adjuster called it “cosmetic” and wouldn’t budge.
- I get why they draw the line, but dents are still damage in my book, especially if you’re looking to sell down the line.
- Keeping receipts and inspection notes has helped me once, though—when I pushed back, suddenly they found “minor functional impairment.”
- My impact-resistant shingle discount was maybe $60 a year... not exactly life-changing, but I’ll take what I can get.
- On the bright side, the new roof made the attic way cooler last summer. Small perks, I guess.
I had a similar fight with my insurer after a gnarly storm last year—couldn’t believe they tried to call all the shingle bruising “just visual.” Maybe it’s not leaking today, but dents and dings definitely hurt curb appeal if you’re trying to sell. I kept every inspection note and even snapped my own photos—eventually got them to cover partial replacement. The “impact-resistant” discount feels kind of pointless, honestly, but at least the new shingles seem to keep the attic temp down in summer. Not nothing, I guess.
I get what you mean about the “impact-resistant” discount not feeling like much. I got a similar deal after my last inspection, but honestly, the premium barely budged. I guess every bit helps, but it’s not like it covers the cost of the upgrade. I had to push back on my insurer too—mine tried to say hail dents were just cosmetic, but when I pointed out the resale value drop, they finally agreed to partial coverage.
I do think keeping your own photos and notes is key. I started doing that after a neighbor got burned by their adjuster. It’s a hassle, but it paid off for me when I had to show proof of damage.
Funny enough, I’ve noticed the attic’s a bit cooler too since the new shingles went on. Not sure if it’ll save much on AC, but I’ll take any break I can get with these utility bills. Still, I wish the insurance savings matched the headache of dealing with them...
