What to Do After a Hail Storm: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

Hail storms can strike with little warning and leave behind a trail of damage, ranging from dented cars and shattered windows to damaged roofs and siding. For homeowners, the aftermath of a hail storm can be overwhelming. Knowing what to do immediately after the storm passes is crucial to minimizing damage, protecting your property, and ensuring a smooth insurance process. This comprehensive guide walks you through the steps to take following a hail storm to help you recover safely and efficiently. www.texasroofspecialist.com

1. Ensure Safety First

Wait for the Storm to Pass

The number one priority after a hail storm is safety. Even if the storm seems to have slowed down, remain inside until it has completely passed. Hail can fall at speeds of over 100 miles per hour, and even small hailstones can cause serious injury.

Check for Immediate Dangers

Once it’s safe to go outside, look for any immediate hazards:

• Downed power lines

• Broken glass

• Loose shingles or debris

• Flooding or blocked drainage

Do not attempt to handle any of these issues on your own if they pose a risk. Call emergency services or your utility provider for assistance if necessary.

2. Inspect Your Property

After ensuring your surroundings are safe, begin a thorough inspection of your property. Take notes and pictures of all damage as this will be essential for insurance claims.

Roof Damage

The roof is often the most affected part of your home during a hail storm. Look for:

• Dented or missing shingles

• Cracked tiles

• Exposed underlayment or decking

• Gutter damage or clogging

• Soft spots (indicative of bruised shingles)

Avoid climbing on the roof yourself unless you are trained and equipped. Use binoculars from the ground or hire a professional roofing inspector.

Windows and Siding

Inspect windows for:

• Cracks or shattered glass

• Broken seals or moisture inside panes

• Torn screens

Check siding for:

• Cracks, dents, or holes

• Chipped paint or vinyl

• Detached sections

Vehicles and Outdoor Property

Examine vehicles for dents, broken glass, or scratches. Document any damage with photos from multiple angles. Also inspect outdoor furniture, fencing, air conditioning units, and landscaping for signs of impact.  www.texasroofspecialist.com 

3. Document All Damage

Documentation is key when dealing with insurance claims. Take the following steps:

• Photograph each area of damage from various angles

• Write detailed descriptions of what you observe

• Record the date and time of the storm

• Keep samples of damaged materials (e.g., broken shingles or siding)

• Save local news reports or weather alerts verifying the hail storm occurred

If you need to make temporary repairs (like covering broken windows), document the condition before and after the repair.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you have assessed the damage, contact your homeowner’s insurance provider as soon as possible. Most policies require timely notification of claims.

Understand Your Coverage

Not all insurance policies cover hail damage in the same way. Review your policy or speak with your agent to understand:

• What types of damage are covered

• Your deductible and claim limits

• The timeline for filing a claim

File a Claim

Provide your insurance company with:

• Photos and descriptions of the damage

• A copy of the weather alert or news report

• Any repair estimates if available

• A timeline of events (when the storm happened, when you noticed the damage)

Most insurance companies will send an adjuster to inspect the damage and verify your claim.

5. Schedule Professional Inspections

After contacting your insurer, schedule inspections with qualified professionals. These experts can assess hidden or structural damage that may not be immediately visible.

Roofing Contractors

Hire a licensed, insured roofing contractor who specializes in storm damage. They can:

• Perform a detailed roof inspection

• Provide an estimate for repairs or replacement

• Help document the damage for your insurance claim

Make sure to choose a reputable contractor—preferably one with local references and a strong track record. Beware of “storm chasers” who show up after storms offering fast repairs for cash or with no contract.

Other Specialists

Depending on the severity of the damage, you may also need:

• Window installers

• HVAC technicians

• Siding or general contractors

• Auto body shops for vehicle damage

Get written estimates from at least two different contractors before proceeding with any major repair work.  www.texasroofspecialist.com 

6. Make Temporary Repairs

To prevent further damage, it may be necessary to perform some temporary repairs while waiting for your insurance claim to be processed.

Examples of Temporary Fixes:

• Tarp over damaged sections of the roof

• Board up broken windows

• Clear clogged gutters and downspouts

• Cover broken siding with waterproof sheeting

Keep all receipts for materials and labor used in temporary repairs—many insurance companies will reimburse these expenses.

7. Avoid Common Post-Storm Scams

Hail storms often attract unscrupulous contractors looking to take advantage of homeowners in distress. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Don’t pay upfront for full repairs

• Verify credentials like licenses, insurance, and references

• Get contracts in writing, including scope of work, materials, costs, and timelines

• Beware of high-pressure sales tactics

If someone offers to waive your deductible or demands payment in cash, it’s a red flag. Stick with reputable, local professionals.

8. Plan for Repairs or Replacements

Once the insurance claim is approved, you can begin the full repair or replacement process. Depending on the extent of damage, this may include:

• Replacing sections or the entirety of your roof

• Installing new windows or doors

• Residing the house

• Repairing vehicles and outdoor structures

Coordinate scheduling with your contractors, and keep your insurance adjuster updated on any changes or unforeseen issues that arise during repairs.

9. Check for Structural or Interior Damage

Hail impact can sometimes cause hidden damage inside the home:

• Leaks or water stains on ceilings and walls

• Damp insulation

• Cracks in drywall or ceilings

• Mold growth if water has seeped in

Monitor your interior closely in the days and weeks following the storm. If you notice any issues, contact a water damage specialist or contractor right away.

10. Prepare for Future Storms

After going through a hail storm, it's wise to take preventive measures for the future.

Upgrade Your Roofing Materials

If you need to replace your roof, consider impact-resistant materials like Class 4 asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or concrete tiles. These materials hold up better against hail and may lower your insurance premiums.

Reinforce Vulnerable Areas

• Install hail-resistant window film

• Reinforce siding with higher-grade material

• Upgrade skylights and roof vents

• Install storm shutters or protective covers

Review and Update Insurance

Check your homeowner’s policy annually and make adjustments as needed to ensure you're adequately covered. Consider adding extra coverage if you live in a hail-prone area.  www.texasroofspecialist.com