Hail damage causes insurance claims to rise

Published: Apr. 21, 2015 at 9:29 PM CDT|Updated: May. 5, 2015 at 10:19 PM CDT
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ARKLATEX (KSLA) - Storms brought rain and hail to the ArkLaTex Sunday, and that has insurance agencies busy this week.

The hail that pummeled areas of the ArkLaTex scared Clayton Ingle and many other people. Across Texas and Louisiana, people reported hail damage to their cars, and homes which that has insurance agencies busy this week.

"We've had several claims and most of them are being repaired right now," said Charles Semon.

Semon owns 360 Insurance in Shreveport. He says most of his claims are coming from the Benton and Greenwood areas where the largest hail fell. He says when people are going through the insurance claim process, they need to be aware of a few things.

"The first thing usually is you want to call a roofing company so they can get an adjuster to come take a look," he explained.

Semon warns after large hail storms, the area may be flooded with companies from out of town, and sometimes those companies aren't the best options.

"Two weeks down the line they're gone, and you won't have anyone to make any repairs if there are any problems with the work done," explains Semon.

He says you want to read up on your policy because often times the damage done, unless in extreme cases, won't match up to your deductible.

"You've only got $200-$300 in damage and your deductible is $1,000. You don't want to make a claim that's going to end up costing you later."

Lastly, Semon says you should always be aware of exactly what type of policy you have. This will prevent confusion if a claim is needed.

Semon also said that home owner's insurance will cover any water leaks caused by hail, but flooding is not covered under the policy. Flood insurance is its own policy, and may be something to consider as the rainy season continues.

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