How Hail Insurance Claims Work
A simple guide to the hail repair process — from inspection to approval to repair.
Most drivers have never filed a hail claim before. This page explains what happens, what your insurance company will review, and how your repair moves forward once everything is approved.
The Hail Claim Process
Step 1 — Schedule Your Inspection
Bring your vehicle in for a 30-minute Light Booth inspection.
The Light Booth reveals hail dents that are often invisible in normal lighting. This allows us to document the full scope of the damage before the claim moves forward.
Step 2 — File Your Insurance Claim
Once the inspection is complete, you file your claim with your insurance company.
You can file through:
- Your insurance app
- Your agent
- Your carrier’s claims phone line
Your claim is then assigned to an adjuster for review.
Step 3 — Insurance Review & Approval
Your insurance company reviews the damage and the repair plan.
During storm events, approvals can take 7–14 business days, depending on the carrier and storm volume.
If an in-shop inspection is required, we help coordinate that process.
Step 4 — Repair Scheduling
Once approval is confirmed:
- We contact you to schedule your repair
- Your repair type is confirmed
- Rental timing is coordinated if needed
You keep driving your vehicle until it’s time for repairs.
Step 5 — Vehicle Repair
If your vehicle qualifies for Paintless Dent Repair (PDR):
Repairs are completed within 48 hours after scheduled drop-off.
If parts or paint work are required, a confirmed timeline will be provided before repairs begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can insurance tell me where to go?
Many insurance companies will suggest a preferred repair shop when you file a claim.
Preferred shops are simply shops that have agreements with the insurance company.
You are always allowed to choose where your vehicle is repaired.
If you’ve already selected a repair facility, you can simply tell your insurance company:
“I’ve chosen my repair shop.”
Why hail damage estimates can miss dents?
Hail dents can be difficult to see in normal lighting.
Insurance inspections are often done quickly, and smaller dents can be overlooked.
Our Light Booth inspection uses specialized lighting to reveal dents clearly so the full repair plan can be documented from the start.
This helps ensure your vehicle is repaired properly.
What about my deductible?
Hail damage claims typically fall under your comprehensive coverage.
This means:
- The repair is covered based on your policy
- Your deductible may apply
- The repair plan must be approved before work begins
If you have questions about your deductible or coverage, our team can walk you through the process.
What happens while I wait?
While your claim is under review:
- You keep driving your vehicle
- We monitor the approval process
- You’ll be contacted as soon as approval is confirmed
If additional documentation is requested, we help coordinate the next steps.
Ready to Find Out What Damage Your Vehicle Has?
Schedule a Free 30-Minute Hail Damage Inspection.
Our Light Booth inspection will reveal the full extent of the damage and help you move forward with your insurance claim.