What to Do After a Hailstorm Hits

June 28, 2018

Severe summer weather brings hail, which can cause extensive damage to your home and vehicle.  So what should you do after a hailstorm hits your town?

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Start by focusing on safety.  When it’s safe to venture outside, keep away from downed power lines, broken glass, and debris.  Wear gloves and boots for protection.

For damage to your home:

  • Record the date and time of the storm.
  • Take photos of any hail left on the ground.  Use a tape measure (or an everyday object as a point of reference) to show size of the hail stone.
  • Take photos of damage that occurred to your property.  Look for damage to:
    • Your roof, siding, gutters, windows, window screens, patios, and air conditioning units.  Make sure to include photos of any leaks in your home as a result of the hail damage.
    • Shrubs and trees around your property.
  • Prioritize the damage.  Leaks and exposed wires should be taken care of right away, followed by less critical damage such as window screens and patios.
  • If you’re unsure if there is damage to your home, especially to your roof, you might consider finding a reputable, local roofer to inspect your property prior to submitting an insurance claim.
  • Contact your agent or insurance company to file your claim.  By recording the damage ahead of time, you’ll be prepared with the information your insurance company needs to get your claim moving, helping the process go as smoothly as possible.

For damage to your vehicle:

  • Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and record the date and time of the storm.
  • Report the damage to your agent or insurance company immediately after the storm.  This will start the claim process as soon as possible.
  • Work with your insurance company to determine the severity of your vehicle’s damage and the appropriate repair shop to use.

*Please note that if the hailstorm was widespread and affected a significant amount of homes and vehicles in your area, it could take longer to repair or settle your claim.

Take steps to prevent further damage to your property.  Some hailstorms may be followed by wind and heavy rain.  Try to clean up any debris.  Board up broken windows and doors.  Cover roof damage if possible with tarps or plywood.  Place damaged items in a safe place for later inspection.

When it comes to hail, you never really know what to expect.  Your neighbor could have a lot of damage and you may have none.  The time after a hailstorm can be stressful and overwhelming.  It’s important to remember patience and to focus on the damage that is threatening to your health and safety first.

If you have any questions about hail and your property coverage, contact your agent.

This blog entry is created for informational purposes only.  Any viewpoint or sponsorship of outside parties involved in the blog entry does not necessarily represent Goodville's stance as a company.  The blog should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.