What Should I Do First When Hail Hits the Roof?

Your immediate safety is the most important concern. Do not go outside to check your roof until the hail has completely stopped and the weather is calm. Hailstorms can bring strong winds, lightning, and falling debris that pose serious injury risks. Wait until conditions are safe before you even consider stepping outside for a visual assessment.

Once it is safe, begin your initial inspection from the ground. Use binoculars if you have them to get a closer look. Walking on a hail-damaged roof can be dangerous and may cause further harm to compromised shingles. Your goal at this stage is to spot obvious signs of trouble without putting yourself at risk.

Create a detailed record of what you see. Take clear, date-stamped photographs of any damage from multiple angles. Include close-ups of damaged shingles, dented vents, and granule loss, as well as wider shots that show the roof's overall condition. Also, photograph any damaged personal property, like a dented mailbox or damaged patio furniture.

Write down notes to accompany your photos. Record the date and time of the storm, the approximate size of the hailstones, and the direction the storm came from. This documentation is crucial for communicating with your insurance adjuster and any roofers you contact. It provides a factual baseline before any repairs begin.

• Photograph damaged shingles, flashing, and vents.
• Capture images of granules in gutters and downspouts.
• Take pictures of dents on siding, windows, or AC units.
• Document any water stains on interior ceilings or walls.
• Note the date, time, and observed hail size.
• Keep all receipts for temporary repairs, like tarping.

With the inspection report in hand, you can decide on repairs. The roofer will explain whether repairs or a full replacement is necessary based on the extent of the damage. They should provide a clear scope of work. Remember, delaying needed repairs can lead to leaks, which cause interior water damage, mold growth, and more expensive problems down the line.

If you plan to involve your insurance, contact them to start a claim. Provide them with your documentation and the roofer's report. Be prepared for them to send their own adjuster. Your role is to facilitate communication between the adjuster and your chosen roofer to ensure everyone agrees on the scope and cost of the necessary work to restore your home.