A hail storm just came through. What should I do now?
Stay safe and check for damage from the ground. Look for dented gutters and downspouts, damaged siding, broken windows or screens, and shingle granules near your downspouts. Take photos of any damage, then schedule a professional roof inspection.
Step 1: Stay safe and check from the ground
Avoid climbing on your roof, since it can be dangerous, especially if the surface is damaged. From the ground, look for dented gutters or downspouts, damaged siding or paint chips, broken windows or screens, damage to outdoor furniture or grills, and shingles or granules on the ground in front of your downspouts.
Step 2: Look for signs of roof damage
Signs of hail damage on a roof include dark spots or bruising on the shingles, cracked or missing shingles, and granule loss, which you may see in your gutters or downspouts. Hail damage is not always easy to spot, and it can weaken your roof and lead to leaks over time.
Step 3: Document everything
Take clear photos of any damage you can see, including the roof from the ground, gutters and downspouts, outdoor furniture, AC units and vehicles. Photos of the hail itself next to something for size can also be helpful. Good documentation will help if you need to file an insurance claim.
Step 4: Schedule a professional roof inspection
A professional roofing company can safely inspect your roof and identify damage that homeowners often miss. A reputable roofer will do a thorough inspection, take detailed photos, explain the findings clearly and help you decide whether to file a claim. Choose a local, trusted company, and be careful with anyone who just showed up in your neighborhood and knocked on your door.
Step 5: Make repairs the right way
If your roof has minor damage, a repair may be enough. More severe damage, such as bruised or compromised shingles, may require a full replacement. Hail damage may not cause leaks right away, but it shortens the life of your roof, so addressing it early can save you money on future repairs.
Related Questions
Does hail damage always cause a leak?
No. Hail damage may not cause a leak right away, but it can weaken the shingles and lead to leaks over time.
How long do I have to file a claim?
It depends on your insurance policy, so check the deadline in your policy. It is best to have your roof inspected soon after the storm.
