The hail just came through. What do I do now?
Stay off the roof and check from the ground. Look for dented gutters and downspouts, damaged siding, broken windows or screens, and shingle granules collecting near the downspouts. Take photos with the date, note the size of the hail if you saw it, and schedule a roof inspection.
Step one: check from the ground
Walk around the house and look for dented gutters or downspouts, damaged siding or chipped paint, broken windows, torn screens and dents in the fins of the air conditioner. Then check the downspouts. Black or gray granules collecting where the water comes out can mean the storm knocked granules off the shingles. Write down the date and, if you saw it, the size of the hail.
Step two: take photos and have the roof inspected
Take photos of any damage you find, with the date, before anything is cleaned up or repaired. Then have your roof inspected. An inspection shows whether the roof was damaged and how badly, which helps you decide whether to file an insurance claim.
Step three: choose a contractor carefully
After a major storm, many roofing companies go door to door. Before you hire one, ask where their office is, whether they belong to a trade association such as the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas, and how long they have been in business. A contractor who offers to cover your deductible should be avoided, since Texas law does not allow it.
Related questions
Does hail damage always cause a leak?
No. Hail can damage shingles without causing a leak right away. Damaged shingles can wear faster and start leaking later.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Filing deadlines depend on your policy, so check it or ask your insurance agent. It is best to have your roof inspected soon after the storm.
