Dahlem Enterprises, Inc. is a third-generation family business specializing in the acquisition, development, leasing, and management of retail shopping centers and office spaces across five states. One of their shopping centers was impacted by a severe hailstorm.

After a severe hailstorm impacted their Louisville property, Dahlem filed a claim for damage but later discovered additional roof issues that had not been addressed. Despite filing an initial claim for damage caused by hailstones exceeding 4 inches in diameter, the settlement covered only minor repairs to HVAC units — leaving the full extent of the damage unaddressed. Five years later, Dahlem partnered with HailSolve to analyze their portfolio for hail damage. 

Initial Claim Misses Extent of Roof Damage

Dahlem Enterprises filed an insurance claim for hail damage at their retail property, Dahlem Center, after a storm impacted the Louisville, Kentucky area. The carrier acknowledged some HVAC-related damage but denied additional coverage, leaving roof systems—including EPDM, TPO, and metal components—unaddressed. At the time, Dahlem was unaware that hail-related damage had also compromised several green metal awnings and allowed water to infiltrate the roof membrane, resulting in gradual deterioration and leaks.

Owner Reconsiders Claim Following HailSolve’s Technical Documentation

Years later, Dahlem engaged HailSolve to determine whether additional hail damage to their portfolio had gone undocumented. HailSolve performed a full inspection, identifying visible and latent damage across multiple roof sections and awnings to the shopping center. Their assessment revealed that prior hail had likely reduced the long-term performance of several systems.

HailSolve initiated a strategic review of the original claim, assembling third-party experts to support the owner's position. A roofing consultant conducted a field evaluation of the affected systems, and a meteorologist reviewed storm data to determine the probable date of loss. Both specialists produced independent reports confirming the likelihood and severity of hail damage from this particular storm. These findings formed the basis for the owner's decision to submit additional documentation to their carrier for further consideration.

Carrier Reassessment and $361k Settlement Outcome

Following the submission, the carrier reassessed the damage and issued an updated scope of $361,000.

Following the updated scope, HailSolve worked closely with Dahlem to implement a comprehensive restoration plan that addressed the full extent of damage without disrupting tenants or retail operations.

Key Takeaways

  • Hidden Damage Can Persist: Water infiltration due to latent hail damage may remain unnoticed for years, impacting asset performance and insurance eligibility.

  • Credible Documentation Matters: Third-party reports from a roofing consultant and meteorologist helped establish consensus on both cause and scope.

  • Owners Can Strategically Reopen Claims: HailSolve’s structured approach enabled the owner to revisit a previously closed claim and recover additional funds.