What to Do After Hailstorm Damage

Hailstorms can cause sudden, extensive damage to your home and property. In the chaos and stress of the moment, it’s vital to stay calm, act quickly, and follow a clear plan to safeguard your family, assess the damage, and navigate insurance claims effectively.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for what to do immediately after a hailstorm, what repairs to perform, when to call professionals, and how to maximize your insurance benefits. Keep this information handy — it can make all the difference in protecting your home and your peace of mind.

Immediate Safety Steps (First 24 Hours)

1. Ensure Personal Safety

• Check for injuries: Make sure everyone in your household is safe. Seek medical attention immediately for serious injuries.
• Avoid hazards: Stay indoors until it’s safe. Beware of downed power lines, exposed nails, broken glass, and falling debris.
• Turn off utilities if necessary: If you suspect a gas leak, electrical issues, or water damage, turn off the main utilities.

2. Protect Your Family and Pets

• Keep children and pets away from damaged areas.
• Use flashlights instead of candles if power is out to reduce fire risk.

3. Document the Damage

• Photograph everything: Take clear, timestamped photos of all damage — roofs, windows, siding, vehicles, outdoor structures, and interior damage.
• Make a damage list: Write down what’s damaged, noting severity and location.

4. Contact Emergency Services if Needed

• If you see downed power lines, gas leaks, or structural collapse, call emergency services immediately.
• Do not attempt to handle dangerous situations yourself.

5. Secure Your Property

• Temporary cover: If safe, cover broken windows with plywood or plastic sheeting to prevent further damage.
• Clear debris: Remove hazardous debris from walkways to prevent injury.

Damage Assessment & Documentation (Within the First 48 Hours)

6. Conduct a Thorough Inspection

• Roof: Look for large dents, missing shingles, or holes. Use binoculars from the ground if necessary—climb only if safe.
• Windows & Siding: Check for cracks, shattered glass, or dents.
• Gutters & Downspouts: Look for dents or blockages.
• Vehicles: Document dents, cracked windshields, and paint damage.
• Interior: Check ceilings, walls, and floors for leaks, cracks, or dents caused by hail hitting the roof or exterior.

7. Record Damage Meticulously

• Use your smartphone or camera to take multiple angles.
• Note the date, time, and location for each photo.
• Keep a written log of damages, repairs needed, and any communication with contractors or insurance adjusters.

Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage

8. Prioritize Safety & Damage Control

• Cover broken windows: Use heavy plastic sheeting, plywood, or tarps secured with nails, screws, or duct tape.
• Seal roof leaks: If accessible and safe, patch small holes with tarp or roofing cement to prevent water intrusion.
• Protect interiors: Move valuables away from potential leaks and cover furniture with plastic sheeting if leaks are evident.

9. Avoid Making Permanent Repairs

• Do not make extensive repairs yourself without consulting a professional or your insurer. Temporary fixes are meant to prevent further damage, not to restore the property fully.

10. Prevent Further Damage

• Clear gutters and downspouts of debris.
• Remove fallen branches or large debris from your yard.

When to Call a Professional

11. Determine When Expert Help Is Needed

• Roof damage: Call a licensed roofing contractor if shingles are missing or large dents are visible.
• Structural issues: For compromised walls, ceilings, or foundation concerns, contact a structural engineer or licensed contractor.
• Broken windows or siding: Hire a professional for safe, proper repairs.
• Severe interior damage: Water leaks, mold, or electrical issues require licensed specialists.

12. Find Qualified Contractors

• Use trusted sources like GetFixn.com to find reputable, insured professionals.
• Obtain multiple quotes before work begins.
• Check references and reviews.

Insurance Claim Tips & Practical Advice

13. Document Everything Thoroughly

• Save all photos, videos, receipts, and written records.
• Record the dates and details of all communications with your insurance company.

14. Contact Your Insurance Company Promptly

• Notify your insurer within 24-48 hours of damage.
• Ask about required documentation and claim procedures.
• Keep a record of all correspondence.

15. Prepare Your Claim

• Provide detailed lists of damages, supported by photographs.
• Include estimates from licensed contractors for repairs.
• Keep copies of all reports and receipts.

16. Expect an Insurance Adjuster Visit

• Be available to show damage to the adjuster.
• Present your documentation clearly and professionally.
• Ask questions about coverage limits, deductibles, and next steps.

17. Understand Your Policy

• Know your deductible, coverage limits, and exclusions.
• Clarify whether temporary repairs are covered and how to invoice contractors.

18. Keep Records of Payments & Repairs

• Save all receipts for repairs, temporary fixes, and contractor invoices.
• Document ongoing damage or issues that arise during repairs.

Long-Term Repairs & Restoring Your Home

19. Hire Qualified Contractors

• Use trusted professionals from GetFixn.com or recommendations.
• Ensure they are licensed, insured, and experienced with storm damage.

20. Plan for Permanent Repairs

• Replace damaged roofing, siding, windows, and other exterior elements.
• Consider upgrading to more wind- and hail-resistant materials.
• Address interior repairs, mold mitigation, and repainting as needed.

21. Prevent Future Damage

• Install impact-resistant roofing and windows.
• Reinforce siding and gutters.
• Trim trees near your home to prevent falling branches in future storms.

22. Follow Up & Monitor

• Regularly inspect repaired areas.
• Keep records of ongoing maintenance.
• Stay informed about local weather alerts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Delaying safety or damage assessment: Don’t wait to check for hazards or document damage.
• Making permanent repairs without approval: Temporary fixes are fine, but avoid full repairs before insurance adjusters review damage.
• Ignoring minor damage: Small dents or cracks can worsen over time.
• Failing to contact your insurer promptly: Delays can complicate claims.
• Using unlicensed contractors: Always verify credentials to avoid subpar work or scams.
• Not protecting your property: Failing to cover broken windows or leaks can lead to mold or further damage.

When to Call a Professional

• Structural integrity is compromised.
• You're uncomfortable performing temporary repairs.
• Damage exceeds your skill level or safety comfort.
• You suspect electrical, plumbing, or mold issues.
• The damage is extensive or complex.

Final Words of Advice

Hailstorms can be overwhelming, but swift, informed action minimizes damage and speeds recovery. Always prioritize safety—your home can be repaired, but health and safety come first. Use this guide as your roadmap in those stressful moments, and remember, professional help is just a call away. For trusted local contractors and further assistance, visit GetFixn.com.