Spring storms continue to bring an increase in hail-related insurance claims, according to Farmers Insurance. Drawing on recent claims experience, the insurer is encouraging consumers to review coverage for homes, vehicles, boats, and motorcycles before severe weather occurs.
Farmers Insurance said hail damage represents a significant share of both homeowners and auto claims activity. The company also noted that policy details, including roof coverage and deductibles, can affect how claims are handled after a storm.
Hailstorms Continue To Cause Significant Property Damage
Farmers Insurance reported a seasonal increase in hail-related losses during the spring months. The company shared the information as storms become more frequent during this time of year.
“Many homeowners may not be fully aware of how their homeowners insurance policy would cover roof damage caused by hail,” said Bobby Massey, Head of Catastrophe Claims at Farmers Insurance. “Our goal is to help customers feel informed and supported before they ever need to file a claim, because reviewing a few key coverage details ahead of time can make a stressful situation easier to navigate.”
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hailstones can range from pea-sized pellets to softball-sized chunks of ice. Larger hailstones can increase the risk of damage to roofs, vehicles, and other property.
In March 2026, scientists from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) confirmed the largest hailstone ever recorded in Illinois. The hailstone measured more than 6.6 inches across at its widest point.
Hail Claims Represent a Large Share of Insurance Activity
Farmers Insurance analyzed hail-related homeowners and automobile comprehensive claims activity from January 2024 through March 2026.
During that period:
- Hail-related homeowners claims accounted for about 20% of claim dollars paid and 31% of total homeowners claims volume.
- Hail-related car comprehensive claims represented roughly 20% of both claim dollars paid and total car claim counts.
The company stated that these figures show how a single hailstorm can damage multiple types of property at the same time.
Key Home Insurance Details To Review
Farmers Insurance said homeowners should review several coverage details before storm season.
Roof Coverage and Roof Age
Roof coverage can vary depending on policy selections and the age of the roof. Older roofs may receive different coverage than newer roofs, which can affect how claims are processed after hail damage.
Roof Information on the Policy
Homeowners who replaced a roof in recent years should review their declarations page to confirm the listed roof age is accurate. Farmers Insurance recommended contacting an insurance agent if updates are needed and providing supporting documentation.
Policy Deductibles
Some homeowners policies include separate wind or hail deductibles. Reviewing deductible amounts ahead of time can help homeowners understand potential out-of-pocket costs after a storm.
Important Car Insurance Coverage Information
Farmers Insurance also encouraged vehicle owners to review comprehensive coverage details before hail season.
Comprehensive Coverage
The company noted that hail damage to vehicles is typically covered under comprehensive coverage rather than liability or collision coverage.
Comprehensive Deductibles
Reviewing the comprehensive deductible can help vehicle owners understand what costs they may be responsible for if hail damages a car.
Farmers Insurance added that coverage for recreational vehicles, including boats and motorcycles, may differ from home and auto policies and could require separate review.
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