How long do I have to file a hail claim?

Sources disagree, with figures from six months to one or two years, and your policy controls. Acting within about 30 days is advised so the damage can be tied to a single storm. Read your policy and call your insurer soon.

What is a wind/hail deductible?

Many Colorado policies use a separate deductible for wind and hail, either a percentage of the insured value (an agency guide cites 1 percent to 5 percent) or a flat dollar amount. Check your declarations page for the exact number.

Where can I get help with a claim problem?

The Colorado Division of Insurance publishes consumer advice and takes complaints. Check its website for current contact information.

Hail Damage Insurance Claims for Colorado Springs Gutters

Q: Can a contractor waive or cover my deductible?

Colorado law says roofing contractors may not pay, waive, or rebate an insurance deductible, or advertise that they will. Be cautious of anyone who offers.

Call (719) 628-1885

This is general information to help you prepare, not legal or insurance advice. Policies differ, so your insurer and your policy language are the final word. We are a referral service, not an insurance adviser or a contractor.

Start with documentation

After a storm, insurance guides recommend photographing damage right away. Gutters and downspouts are on the list along with the roof, siding, windows, fences, and vehicles. Take wide shots and close-ups, include a coin or tape measure for scale if you can, and note the date of the storm.

Try to report soon. The agency guide we reviewed advises acting within roughly 30 days, mainly so that damage can be connected to one specific storm instead of blending with older wear.

Filing deadlines

We found conflicting answers, from about six months to one or two years, and a policy sets its own terms. One attorney answer we read suggests a late report does not always bar a claim in Colorado unless the insurer is harmed by the delay, but that is not a promise and we cannot advise on your situation. Read the claims section of your policy and ask your insurer directly.

Your deductible

Many Colorado policies carry a separate wind and hail deductible. An agency guide describes these as either a percentage of insured value, in a range from 1 percent to 5 percent, or a flat dollar amount. On a high-value home a percentage deductible can be substantial, so find your number before you decide whether a claim makes sense. Gutter-only damage may fall below your deductible.

Contractors cannot waive it

Colorado’s Roofing Contractor Act includes a provision that roofing contractors may not pay, waive, or rebate an insurance deductible or advertise that they will. Colorado’s roofing trade association also states that waiving deductibles is illegal. We are not certain how the law applies to a gutter-only job, but treat any offer to cover your deductible as a red flag. This site does not make that offer either.

What the state recommends

The Colorado Division of Insurance advises consumers to contact the insurer promptly, document damage, get a claim number and the adjuster’s contact information, ask for an itemized explanation, and expect a written explanation if a claim is denied. Keep records of every call and email.

Before you sign anything

Get your insurer’s estimate in writing before you commit to a contractor.
Do not sign a contract that assigns your claim or promises particular payouts without reading it.
Read our hiring checklist.

For a quote on repairs or replacement, call (719) 628-1885 or send a request below and we will connect you with a local gutter installer.