When hail hits the ground, the first useful record may be right in front of you: the hail itself. Take pictures, then photograph visible dents in downspouts and holes in siding. Those three steps can give you something concrete to show when an adjuster visits.
Start with pictures of the hail
If you see hail hit the ground, take pictures of it. Some homeowners also collect hail and put it in a freezer to show an adjuster later.
Do not take risks while the storm is still active. Be careful if it is still hailing; preserving a sample is not worth getting hurt.
Look beyond the roof
After the storm, do not limit your photos to the roof. Photograph downspouts and any holes in the siding that you can see. These are specific exterior areas to document for a hail claim.
- Hail on the ground: Take pictures when you see it fall.
- Downspouts: Photograph visible damage.
- Siding: Photograph any holes you find.
Choose a contractor who understands hail claims
A contractor can represent you during the claim process, but choose carefully. Check online reviews and ask questions to find out whether the contractor knows how to handle insurance claims.
One important question is whether the contractor knows the difference between blistering and actual hail hits. Ask for an explanation of what the contractor sees on your roof rather than assuming every mark is hail damage.
Look for someone who cares about your project, walks you through the steps, and puts your best interest first. The contractor should help identify what is best suited for your home, rather than what best serves the contractor's bottom line.
Ask how the contractor handles problems
Hail repairs can involve more than roofing. On an American Family homeowner's hail claim, the work included roofing, siding, and gutters. The main supplier did not have the needed siding in stock, showing why material availability can become a project issue.
Ask whether the contractor will be honest if something goes wrong, fix a problem that develops later, and answer the phone. Those answers can matter as much as the initial inspection.
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Source: Hoel Roofing: Debt Free Roofer in Indianapolis Raising Kids and Growing Business
FAQ
What should I photograph after hail hits my home?
Take pictures of the hail on the ground, visible damage to downspouts, and any holes in the siding.
Should I collect hail for an insurance claim?
Some homeowners put hail in a freezer to show an adjuster later. Be careful if it is still hailing and do not risk your safety to collect it.
Why should I photograph downspouts and siding after hail?
Visible downspout damage and holes in siding are exterior conditions to document along with hail on the ground.
What should I ask a contractor about hail damage?
Check the contractor's online reviews and ask whether they understand insurance claims and know the difference between blistering and actual hail hits.
What should I look for in a contractor for a hail project?
Choose someone who cares about your project, walks you through the steps, puts your best interest first, and will address problems if they arise.
