Illinois hail damage, roof claims, and roofer rules (2026)
Last updated . General information, not legal or insurance advice.
Hail is a fact of life for Illinois roofs. Here's what the 2026 storm data shows near our service cities, and the Illinois rules that protect homeowners who hire a roofer after a storm.
2026 hail near Illinois cities
NOAA SPC preliminary reports, March 1 – November 3, 2026:[1]
- Chicago: 73 reports of 1"+ hail within 50 mi (largest 6.10")
Roofers must be state-licensed
Illinois makes it unlawful to provide professional roofing services without a license under the Roofing Industry Licensing Act. You can check a license on IDFPR's License Look Up. [2][3]
Written contract over $1,000
Before starting home repair work over $1,000, an Illinois contractor must give you a written contract or work order stating the total cost and the business name and address. [4]
Contractor license or registration in Illinois: IL 104016967 (Licensed Roofing Contractor). Verify it with the Illinois IDFPR license lookup. Contractor licensing details.
Before you sign anything
Get the license or registration number and proof of insurance. Get a written estimate and contract, and never sign over an insurance check.[5] Your insurer decides what's covered. A contractor can't promise it.
Rather talk to someone? Request a callback
Leave your name and number and a local roofing contractor will call you back about a free estimate and inspection. Available to homeowners in our service markets.
- A local contractor calls you. They confirm your address and a time that works.
- They inspect your roof. Free, in person, no obligation.
- You get a written price. You decide. No pressure.
Local Illinois storm reports
Roof replacement cost in Illinois cities
Frequently asked questions
Can a Illinois roofer pay my deductible?
Ask your insurer and check state law. Several states prohibit it, and offers to "cover your deductible" are a common storm-chaser tactic.
Is a free roof inspection in Illinois really free?
Inspections requested through this site are free, with no strings attached and no obligation, for homeowners in our service markets.
Sources
- NOAA Storm Prediction Center, storm reports (preliminary). www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/reports/
- 225 ILCS 335/9. ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/022503350K9.htm
- IDFPR: Roofing Contractor. idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/roof.html
- 815 ILCS 513/15. www.ilga.gov/documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/081505130K15.htm
- FTC, How to Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters. consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scams-after-weather-emergencies-and-natural-
Sources checked November 4, 2026. Estimates are not quotes. Roofing, insurance, and legal details vary. Confirm with your contractor, insurer, or attorney.