Hail Damage on Your Roof? Here’s What to Do Next.
Living in Austin, hailstorms aren’t just a rare event—they’re a seasonal reality. While a little bit of hail might not seem like a big deal, it can cause serious damage to your roof, sometimes in ways that aren’t obvious right away. Whether you’ve just been through a storm or suspect your roof took a hit, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next.
1. Stay Safe and Do a Quick Visual Check.
Once the storm passes, your first priority should always be safety. Don’t climb on the roof yourself—especially if it’s wet or there are loose shingles. Instead, walk around your home and do a ground-level inspection. Look for:
- Shingles in your yard or driveway.
- Dents or cracks on gutters and downspouts.
- Granules from shingles accumulating in your gutters or near downspouts.
- Broken skylights or windows.
- Damage to siding or fences.
- If you see signs like these, there’s a good chance your roof took some damage too.
2. Check Inside for Signs of Leaks.
Hail can create weak spots in your roof that don’t leak immediately but eventually let water in. Go into your attic or the upper floors of your home and look for:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls.
- Damp insulation.
- Dripping water or puddles after rain.
Catch leaks early, and you can avoid bigger repair bills down the road.
3. Document Everything.
Take photos and videos of all visible damage—both inside and outside. This includes:
- Shingles on the ground.
- Dents on metal surfaces.
- Broken windows.
- Water damage inside the home.
The more documentation you have, the easier the claims process will be with your insurance company.
4. Contact a Local Roofing Contractor for an Inspection.
Even if the damage doesn’t look major, it’s smart to bring in a professional for a full inspection. Hail damage isn’t always visible from the ground—and it can lead to leaks, mold, or structural problems if left unrepaired.
Look for a trusted local roofer in Austin who:
- Offers free inspections.
- Is familiar with hail damage and insurance processes.
- Has positive reviews from homeowners in the area.
- A good roofer will walk your roof, take their own photos, and give you a full damage report.
5. File an Insurance Claim (If Necessary).
If your roofing contractor confirms hail damage, it’s time to contact your homeowners insurance company. Most policies cover hail damage, but you’ll need to:
File your claim promptly (usually within a certain time frame after the storm)
Provide your documentation and your contractor’s report
Schedule a visit from the insurance adjuster
Many roofing companies will work directly with your insurance adjuster to make the process smoother.
6. Make Temporary Repairs if Needed.
If you notice active leaks or exposed areas, cover them with a tarp or waterproof material until repairs can begin. This can prevent additional damage to your home while you’re waiting for the insurance or contractor.
Some roofing contractors will provide emergency patching services—just ask during your inspection.
7. Schedule the Repairs.
Once your claim is approved, your contractor can get started on repairs or a full replacement if needed. Make sure you get everything in writing, including:
The scope of work.
Estimated timeline.
Cost breakdown (if insurance isn’t covering everything).
Warranty details.
Choose a roofer who’s communicative and transparent throughout the process. This isn’t a job you want rushed or done halfway.
Final Thoughts.
Hail damage is stressful—but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. The key is to act quickly, document everything, and work with a contractor you trust. A prompt inspection can save you thousands by catching problems early and making sure your insurance covers what it should.
✅ Call to Action.
Just went through a hailstorm in Austin? Don’t wait for leaks to appear—get a free, no-obligation roof inspection from a trusted local contractor. We’ll assess the damage, help you navigate insurance, and make sure your home stays protected.
👉 Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection Today.