IBHS Study Shows Smaller Hail May be More Damaging to Roofs Than Once Believed

2025-10-02 · Source: Insurance Journal

Summary in 3 Points • Smaller hailstones cause significant roof damage • Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety study • Potential implications for insurance claims --- A recent study conducted by the **Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety** has revealed that smaller hailstones may cause more significant damage to roofs than previously thought. This finding challenges the conventional understanding of hail damage, which often focused on larger hailstones as the primary threat. The study's results have already been cited by a plaintiffs' lawyer, suggesting that this new information could influence future **insurance claims** and litigation related to hail damage. For the London Insurance Market, this study underscores the need for **underwriters** and **risk managers** to reassess their current models for **hail risk**. The potential for increased claims due to smaller hailstones may lead to adjustments in **policy terms** and **premium calculations**. Additionally, **brokers** might need to advise clients on the importance of roof maintenance and the selection of materials that can better withstand hail impacts. As the industry continues to integrate **artificial intelligence** for risk assessment, this new data could be pivotal in refining predictive models and improving loss prevention strategies.

London market impact

For the London Insurance Market, this study underscores the need for underwriters and risk managers to reassess their current models for hail risk. The potential for increased claims due to smaller hailstones may lead to adjustments in policy terms and premium calculations. Additionally, brokers might need to advise clients on the importance of roof maintenance and the selection of materials that can better withstand hail impacts.