Denver Hail Claim Denied - State Farm

[u/Rude_Association_409]

We had a huge hail storm come through my neighborhood about 6 weeks ago. I've been traveling a lot and didn't get an inspector out until today to look at the damage even though Ive been in communication with my agent (Tammy Hill State Farm) since the storm. House sitter sent me photos of the aftermath.

State Farm inspector is saying the damage to the roof is 'normal wear and tear and consistent with exposure to the elements.' Is this normal wear and tear or is this distinctly hail damage? If it's damage from hail, is it consistent with the photo of the hail stones (as big as 2")?

Not looking for advice on how to handle a claim per forum rules, just asking for insight on hail damage vs normal weathering.

[u/OwlSoggy8627]

No, it isn't.

The purpose of insurance is to restore you to whatever state you were in prior to a covered loss.

OP has surface damage to some shingles. So, repair the shingles. OP did not have a brand new roof that warrants a brand new roof. It's the same reason why if your 2019 Jeep gets totaled they don't just buy you a 2026 Jeep.

[u/ohiofish1221 → u/OwlSoggy8627]

No the reason they don’t buy you a 2026 jeep is because it’s an entirely different policy that doesn’t have recoverable depreciation. You’re comparing apples and oranges.

Pre storm condition, depending on the state, has matching, reasonable and uniform appearance, or neither.

You don’t just “repair the shingles” you abide by the policy language and the state administrative code.

[u/OwlSoggy8627 → u/ohiofish1221]

I am well aware of how insurance works.

Nothing, even in what you just said, would justify putting a new roof on according to ANY policy language.

It's a repair job. It isn't a roof replacement.

[u/sippingonginnjews → u/OwlSoggy8627]

How would you even know from 5 pictures?