Our roof was damaged in the 2020 hail storm — can we still file an insurance claim for shingle replacement now?

Unfortunately, it's very unlikely you can still file a new insurance claim for hail damage from the 2020 storm, as most insurance policies require claims to be reported within one to two years of the damage occurring.

Insurance policies in Alberta typically have strict reporting deadlines for property damage claims. Most standard homeowner's policies require you to report damage "promptly" or within a specific timeframe after discovery — usually 12-24 months maximum. Since the major Calgary hailstorm occurred in June 2020, you're now well beyond any reasonable reporting window that insurers would accept.

However, there are a few scenarios where you might still have options. If you filed a claim in 2020-2021 but it was denied, underpaid, or you're disputing the settlement, you may be able to reopen that existing claim or pursue it through Alberta's dispute resolution process. Some homeowners initially accepted partial settlements or were told damage was "cosmetic only" and later discovered the damage was more extensive than originally assessed. If you have documentation of an original claim, contact your insurance company to discuss whether any aspect remains unresolved.

For Calgary's extreme weather conditions, it's worth having your roof professionally inspected even if insurance won't cover the 2020 damage. Calgary's freeze-thaw cycles, chinook winds, and frequent hailstorms are particularly hard on roofing materials. Asphalt shingles in Calgary typically last 15-20 years rather than the 25-30 years advertised, due to our harsh climate and high UV exposure at altitude. Damaged shingles from 2020 may have allowed water infiltration that could cause interior damage, mold, or structural issues that would be covered under a new claim.

Moving forward, document any current roof issues with photos and get a professional assessment from a licensed roofing contractor. If you discover new damage from recent storms or find that the 2020 damage has led to secondary issues like leaks or interior damage, those might be covered under a new claim. Calgary sits in Canada's "hail belt," so impact-resistant Class 4 shingles are worth considering when you do replace your roof.

Next steps: Contact your insurance company to clarify your policy's reporting requirements and see if any aspect of a previous claim remains open. Get a current roof inspection to assess the condition and plan for replacement if needed. Browse verified roofing contractors in our Calgary directory to get professional assessments and quotes for any necessary repairs or replacement.

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