What to Do After Hail Damage: A Step-by-Step Guide for Property Owners

Hail season has arrived, and for many property owners, that means one thing: unexpected damage and an insurance claim waiting to happen.

Hailstorms can cause significant damage to roofs, siding, HVAC systems, and other exterior components of a property. The challenge is that hail damage isn’t always obvious at first glance, and missing it early can lead to bigger problems later.

If your property was recently hit by a hailstorm, taking the right steps immediately can make a major difference in how quickly your property is restored and how smoothly your insurance claim progresses.

Step 1: Assess Your Property for Hail Damage

After a hailstorm, the first priority is determining whether your property sustained damage and how severe it may be. Assessing your property after experiencing hail damage initiates the claims process in an attempt to ensure that your property is restored promptly and effectively. Documenting the damage thoroughly with photographs and videos from different angles is essential. This documentation will be invaluable when filing an insurance claim.

Check the Exterior

Inspect the outside of your property for visible signs of damage, such as:

• • • Dented siding or metal surfaces

    • Cracked windows or skylights

    • Damaged gutters and downspouts

    • Chipped paint or exterior finishes

These are often the first indicators that hail has impacted your property.

Inspect the Roof

Pay close attention to your roof, as it is particularly susceptible to hail damage. Look for dents, punctures, and missing shingles or tiles. 

Look for signs such as:

• • • Missing shingles or tiles

    • Dents or punctures

    • Granule loss on asphalt shingles

    • Soft spots or bruising

Because roof damage is often difficult to see from the ground, many property owners choose to have a professional inspection conducted after a storm.

Examine HVAC Units and Exterior Equipment

Outdoor mechanical systems can also take a beating during hailstorms. Check HVAC units and other outdoor equipment for any signs of damage, as hail can cause dents and impair functionality.

Check for:

• • • Dents on condenser fins

    • Bent protective grilles

    • Reduced airflow or efficiency

Even minor dents can affect the performance and lifespan of these systems.

Step 2: Document All Hail Damage

Proper documentation is key to a successful insurance claim. Make sure to record the date and time of the hailstorm, as well as any relevant weather reports. Focus your attention on the areas that appear to have the most damage. Include close-up shots to capture the extent of the damage accurately. Keep all documentation organized and easily accessible for when you need to file your claim. 

Take Photos and Videos

Take clear and detailed photographs of all visible damage to your property from multiple angles. Be sure to capture close-up shots as well as wider shots to provide context.

Create Written Records

In addition to photos, write down key details including:

• • • The date and time of the storm

    • Areas of the property that were affected

    • Any visible structural damage

Detailed notes help establish a clear timeline for your claim.

Gather Supporting Documents

Collect any relevant documents such as maintenance records, previous inspection reports, and receipts for repairs or upgrades.

Step 3: Review Your Insurance Policy

Storm damage situations often raise questions about what is covered under an insurance policy. Insurance policies may contain specific provisions that affect how hail damage is handled.

Some important details to review include:

• • • Your hail or wind deductible

    • Replacement cost vs. actual cash value coverage

    • Cosmetic damage exclusions

    • Coverage limits for roofing or exterior components

It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with your insurance policy, ensuring that you comprehend the coverage limits, deductibles, and any specific requirements or exclusions pertaining to hail damage.

To have your policy thoroughly reviewed by our team of licensed professionals, submit your policy here: FREE Policy Review

Step 4: Take Preventive Measures 

While hail damage is often unavoidable, there are some preventative measures you can take to help minimize the impact of future hailstorms on your property. 

Maintain Your Roof

Regularly inspect and maintain your roof to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities or weak spots that may be susceptible to hail damage. 

Install Impact-Resistant Materials

Consider installing protective coverings such as hail-resistant roofing materials, window shutters, or awnings to mitigate the impact of hailstones. 

Trim Trees and Landscaping

Keep trees and shrubs on your property well-trimmed to minimize the risk of falling branches and debris during hailstorms. 

Enlist the Help of a Public Adjuster

Consider enlisting the expertise of a public adjuster to assist you with your insurance claim. Public adjusters are licensed professionals who work on behalf of policyholders to negotiate fair and equitable settlements with insurance companies. At Premier Claims, our team of Licensed Public Adjusters can advocate for your best interests and fight for you to receive the compensation that is rightfully owed to you. 

Ready to take the next steps after a hailstorm? Connect with Premier Claims today to speak with one of our experienced public adjusters and get the support you need to navigate the claims process with confidence. 

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