Get a Free Estimate 
When a hailstorm hits, your home can be seriously damaged in a matter of minutes. What you do in the following hours and days will determine the outcome of your repair and insurance claim, which is why every homeowner needs to know what to do after a hailstorm damages your roof.
In this guide, we walk you through every step that you should follow to not only protect your property but also increase the likelihood that your insurance will pay for the repairs.
Safety is Always Priority
Don’t put yourself at risk by trying to inspect the damage before the storm is over. Even if things have calmed down, you need to wait until the sky clears to avoid potential danger from hail, lightning, and high winds.
Stay off the roof because of potential hazards, including wet surfaces and hidden structural damage. It’s dangerous to climb up there, especially if you don’t have the right safety equipment. Wait for a professional inspection and let the experts get up there to assess the damage.
Perform a Ground-Level Inspection
Even from the ground, you might be able to see hailstorm roof damage, such as missing, cracked, or displaced shingles. If you have binoculars, they can be helpful for a visual inspection.
Look at metal surfaces that show the impact of hail, such as gutters, downspouts, vents, and metal flashing. Photos of the metal surfaces and other visible damage can be helpful for showing strong evidence of damage.
Look at the downspout bases to check for granule accumulation. One of the most overlooked signs of hailstorm roof damage is that the shingle granules fall off and start to collect in the downspouts.
Check the Interior for Hidden Damage
If you are wondering what to do after a hailstorm damages your roof, the next step is to look at the interior areas of your home. During the daytime hours, go into the attic and see if you can find any pinpoints of light that are coming through the decking. These points are often an indicator of gaps or punctures.
Look at the wood and insulation to see if you can find any signs of moisture or soft spots. Check all of the upper floor ceilings for wall discoloration or ceiling stains, which likely means that water has already started to penetrate through the roof.
How to Document Hail Roof Damage for Insurance
Thorough documentation can increase the likelihood of receiving a payment through your insurance claim. Before you touch anything, start documenting all of the damage and signs of water. Take both wide-angle photos and close-ups of the specific damage points.
Videos can also be used to show the full scope of damage and the overall context. We recommend using both videos and photos, especially since videos are harder for insurers to dismiss.
Take time to save timestamped weather reports and radar screenshots. Any information that shows the size and track of the storm, as well as hail size, can be helpful evidence. Additionally, keep a written log of what happened, such as what you observed and any steps you took to minimize water damage, etc.
Schedule a Roof Inspection After the Hailstorm
A professional roof inspection is essential after a hailstorm damages your roof. You need a licensed contractor who can identify damage. Our team can help with everything from bruised shingles to compromised structural integrity underneath.
We’ll create a written inspection report with attached photos to document the damage. Our experienced crew is thorough with this report because we understand that it’s the most important supporting document that backs your insurance claim.
Post-storm inspections are typically free. Don’t work with a contractor that is pressuring you into high upfront costs or signing before your claim is approved.
Who to Call After Hailstorm Roof Damage in Texas
Not only do you need to call a local roofing contractor right away, but it’s also important to reach out to your insurance company as soon as possible. Once the damage is documented, then you need to notify your insurer about the situation. In Texas, these insurance policies require timely notice, which is why delays can have a negative impact on your claim.
It’s a good idea to have your roofing contractor on site during the insurance adjuster’s visit. The contractor offers a second set of eyes and can advocate on your behalf if needed.
Also, consider reaching out to a Texas property claims attorney if your claim is underpaid or denied. You have options to appeal or push back on the decision.
Emergency Roof Repair Steps After Hail Damage
Make sure to use temporary tarping if the storm damage created openings in your roof. The goal is to prevent water intrusion and minimize water damage overall. In many situations, insurance providers will reimburse reasonable costs for emergency protection. Document these temporary measures with photos and save copies of all of the related receipts.
Never start working on the permanent repairs before your claim has been approved. If you start the work before approval, then it can result in complications with your reimbursements.
FAQs
How soon should I inspect my roof after a hailstorm?
Ideally, your roof inspection should happen within 24 to 48 hours to strengthen your claim and reduce the risk of further damage.
Will insurance cover hail damage in Texas?
Most homeowner policies cover hail damage. But the amount of reimbursement varies depending on your deductibles and depreciation calculations. File as quickly as possible and always review your policy.
Can I inspect my roof myself?
It’s safe to complete a ground-level inspection on your own, but you need to bring a licensed contractor to perform an on-roof assessment. This professional documentation will strengthen your insurance claim.
Call the Roofing Experts to Assess Your Hailstorm Damage
If you are wondering what to do after a hailstorm damages your roof, then the first phone call should be to our experienced team. At Infinite Roofing, we offer thorough inspections and personalized recommendations based on your unique circumstances.
In addition to roofing services, we are also here to help with other exterior repairs and installations, including gutters, solar installation, windows, and more. Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection and no-obligation consultation.