Hail Season in Greenville SC: Is Your Home and Car Insurance Ready?

Every spring, Greenville County gets hit with severe thunderstorms that bring damaging hail. In recent years, hailstorms in the Upstate have caused millions of dollars in damage to roofs, siding, and vehicles. Is your insurance ready for hail season?

Home Insurance and Hail

Most HO-3 homeowners policies cover hail damage to your roof and exterior, but many SC insurers apply a separate wind/hail deductible. Instead of your standard $1,000 or $2,000 deductible, the wind/hail deductible is typically 1% to 5% of your dwelling coverage amount.

On a home insured for $300,000, a 2% wind/hail deductible means you pay the first $6,000 out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Knowing your deductible before a storm hits avoids unpleasant surprises.

Auto Insurance and Hail

Hail damage to your vehicle is covered under the comprehensive portion of your auto policy, not collision. If you only carry liability coverage, hail damage to your car is not covered at all. Adding comprehensive coverage is relatively inexpensive and protects against hail, falling trees, theft, and vandalism.

What to Do After a Hailstorm

  • Document damage with photos before making any repairs
  • File your claim promptly, as insurers may impose deadlines
  • Get multiple repair estimates from reputable local contractors
  • Be cautious of storm chasers who go door to door after hail events

For more details on protecting your home and vehicle in Greenville, read the Greenville SC Homeowners Insurance Guide and the Auto Insurance Guide for Greenville Drivers.

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