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So, you got hail. What now? You have the right to determine who works on your property’s repairs, but it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced contractor for the job; be cautious of those that appear at your doorstep following a storm. It is advised that you first conduct some research, read reviews, and get recommendations before selecting the contractor you believe best suits what you need. References can usually be obtained from your adjuster or agent. It is also important that they have the necessary certifications and are insured and bonded.

Many factors determine whether hail will cause significant damage to your property; these include, but are not limited to:

• The size and hardness of the hail, harder hail causes greater damage
• The speed and direction of the wind, higher wind causes greater damage
• The slope, age, and condition of your roof, a newer roof generally holds up better than an older roof

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What about all the granules I see in my gutters?

A: Granule loss alone is considered wear and tear. Granules continually loosen from your roofing material. Testing has shown that with even 70% of the granules removed, there was no loss of life or reduction of the water-shedding ability of a roof.

Q: What if I can’t find someone to replace my roof for several months?

A: Unless the hail was large enough to break through your roof sheathing, your roof will likely not leak from hail damage. You should schedule an appointment with the contractor of your choice as soon as possible.

Q: There are differences between my contractor’s estimate and the one you prepared. What now?

A: Have your contractor contact the adjuster before repairs begin. Most differences can be resolved over the phone. Occasionally, a competitive bid from another reputable contractor will be necessary.

Q: What if the damage to my shingles doesn’t show up for several months?

A: Hailstone impact damage does not appear at some point in the future. It occurs at the time of impact and is immediately measurable.