Steps to Take After a Hailstorm Damages Your Property

Hailstorms can cause significant damage to homes, vehicles, and other property, often leaving homeowners overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. 

According to USAFacts, since 1980, the United States has experienced 395 natural weather disasters with total costs exceeding $1 billion in 2024 dollars. This includes 201 severe storms, which can cause significant damage to properties. 

If your property has been affected by a hailstorm, it’s crucial to take informed steps to mitigate further damage and ensure proper restoration. Consulting a hail damage attorney can also be beneficial if you face disputes with your insurance company regarding claims. 

Here are essential steps to follow after experiencing hail damage.

Conduct a Preliminary Inspection

As soon as it’s safe to do so after a hailstorm, take the time to inspect your property for any damage. Prioritize the exterior, checking the roof, siding, gutters, windows, and air conditioning unit for signs of damage.

Using binoculars can help you examine the roof closely without the need to climb up. Look for signs of granule loss on shingles or visible cracks, which may indicate more serious underlying issues.

According to NBC 5, a common misconception is that the absence of visible leaks in your home means there is no damage. Hail can impact shingles made of asphalt and fiberglass, resulting in hidden damage. Over time, exposure to sunlight and UV rays can degrade these materials, potentially leading to water leaks. 

Regular assessments can help prevent significant issues down the line.

Assess and Document the Damage

Take clear photographs and videos of all visible damages from multiple angles. Capture close-ups of specific areas like missing shingles, dents in gutters, and any other structural issues. 

Be sure to note the date and time of the hailstorm along with any relevant weather reports that may support your claim. Keeping organized records will facilitate a smoother claims process with your insurance company.

Contact Your Insurance Carrier

After thoroughly documenting the hail damage to your property, it’s crucial to promptly contact your insurance carrier to report the incident. 

According to the Democrat & Chronicle, hail damage to your roof, siding, and other parts of your property may be covered by homeowners insurance. However, note that your policy might have a separate deductible for hail-related damage, particularly if you reside in an area prone to hailstorms. 

Dwelling coverage typically pays for damages to your home up to your coverage limit, minus any deductible. Other structures coverage, on the other hand, can address damage to detached structures like garages or sheds.

Additionally, if your home becomes uninhabitable due to hail damage, loss of use coverage may assist with temporary housing and related expenses during repairs. Understanding these aspects will help you navigate the claims process more effectively.

Seek Legal or Professional Help If Needed

If your insurance claim is denied or undervalued after a hailstorm, seeking legal or professional help is essential. A hail damage attorney can assist in negotiating with insurers, ensuring you receive fair compensation. 

For instance, the Des Moines Register reports that Vadim Shapiro, a resident of Clive, Iowa, faced significant challenges when his insurer denied his initial claim after a hailstorm in 2019. Despite his contractor’s belief that the damage warranted a new roof, the insurer disagreed with the assessment.

After a second claim in 2022, the insurance company only agreed to pay $9,600, significantly lower than the $25,000 cost of a new roof. Shapiro, unaware of the terms of his policy, had to cover the $15,000 gap out of pocket.

VandenBout Law emphasizes that you don’t have to go through this complicated process by yourself. Skilled attorneys can advocate for the compensation you deserve and, if needed, represent you in court to obtain the funds necessary for repairs.

Prepare for Future Storms

After addressing immediate repairs, it’s important to prepare your property for future storms. Start by trimming trees near your home to reduce the risk of flying debris during severe weather. Secure outdoor furniture and other items that could become projectiles in high winds. Additionally, reinforce vulnerable areas of your roof and siding to withstand potential damage.

According to WCNC, it’s essential to be proactive about your roof before a hailstorm strikes. Familiarize yourself with the type and age of your roof, and have it inspected for any pre-existing damage. Understanding your insurance coverage is also crucial; check if your roof has an “impact rating” that could affect claims.

Regular maintenance, such as clearing gutters and ensuring proper drainage, will help protect your home from flooding.

FAQs

How can I check if my roof has an “impact rate” for hail storms?

To check your roof’s impact rate for hail storms, consult your roofing contractor or manufacturer. They can provide specific information about your roof’s material, thickness, and ability to withstand hail damage. Additionally, you can review your home insurance policy to determine if it covers hail damage and the specific coverage limits.

What materials are best for hail-resistant roofing?

Hail-resistant roofing materials include impact-resistant asphalt shingles, tiles,  metal roofing, and synthetic options like rubber or polymer shingles. Metal and concrete roofing offer superior durability. Impact-resistant asphalt shingles provide a more affordable yet reliable option for protecting your home from hail damage.

Should I hire a contractor before contacting my insurance company?

It is advisable to document the damage first before hiring a contractor. However, after you have reported the damage, enlisting a professional contractor can provide an accurate assessment of any additional damage. They can also assist in navigating the claims process effectively, ensuring you receive the necessary compensation for repairs.

Experiencing hail damage can be overwhelming, but taking prompt action can help mitigate further issues and facilitate recovery. By following the steps outlined in the article, you can effectively protect your property. Remember that consulting a hail damage attorney can provide additional support if disputes arise during the claims process.