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What to do after…

What to do after a hailstorm

Hail damage is not always obvious from the ground, and it can take days to show up as a leak. Here is a step-by-step checklist for your home and vehicles, from the first hour to the adjuster's visit.

Step by step

Safety first

  • Stay off the roof. Wet, damaged shingles are slippery, and a professional can inspect safely.
  • Watch for downed power lines and broken glass, and keep children and pets away from both.
  • If water is coming in near light fixtures or outlets, turn off power to that area at the breaker if it is safe to do so.

  1. Photograph everything before anything is moved or fixed

    Take wide shots and close-ups of the roof from the ground, siding, gutters, downspouts, window screens, air conditioner fins, decks, fences, and every vehicle. Put a coin or ruler next to dents for scale. Photograph hailstones with something for size, and note the date and time.

  2. Prevent more damage

    Cover broken windows and roof openings with plywood or a tarp, and move belongings away from leaks. Keep receipts for tarps, boards, and emergency repairs. Policies commonly expect reasonable steps to prevent further damage.

  3. Find your policy information

    Look up your insurer's claims phone number and your policy number on your declarations page or ID card. Check your wind and hail deductible on your homeowners declarations page, and your comprehensive deductible for each vehicle.

  4. Report the claim to your insurance company

    Call your insurer's claims line or use its app as soon as you can. Policies set deadlines for reporting, and some states limit how long after a storm a roof claim can be filed. Write down your claim number and the adjuster's name.

  5. Get a professional inspection

    A licensed roofer can inspect what you cannot see from the ground. Be cautious with contractors who knock on doors after a storm, ask for large payments up front, or offer to pay your deductible, which can be illegal.

  6. Meet the adjuster with your list

    Walk the property with the adjuster and share your photos and list of damage. Ask what the estimate includes, how depreciation applies, and how to recover any withheld amount after repairs are done.

Photograph, write down, and keep

Your record

  • Date and time of the storm
  • Photos and video of the roof, siding, windows, gutters, and vehicles
  • Photos of hailstones next to a coin or ruler
  • Receipts for tarps, boards, and emergency repairs
  • Names, dates, and notes from every call with your insurer and contractors

Common regrets to avoid

  • Signing a contract with a door-to-door roofer before your insurer has inspected
  • Throwing away damaged items before they are photographed
  • Waiting until a leak appears to report roof damage

Keep your claims numbers in one place

Save each policy in a free PolicyChecked account and print a one-page insurance summary with every insurer's claims phone and your policy numbers. Create a free account

Need a hand?

Claims are reported to and decided by your insurance company. If you are not sure who to call or what your policy says, a licensed agent can help you find out: (888) 509-8502.

Questions

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