Hail Damage Property Response: Inspection, Documentation and Water Intrusion

Wait until conditions are safe

• Do not walk on a wet, icy or potentially damaged roof.
• Keep people away from broken glass, hanging materials, downed wires and unstable trees.
• Contact emergency services or the utility when there is an immediate electrical or structural hazard.

Document from safe locations

• Photograph the property from multiple sides, including roof edges, siding, windows, gutters, downspouts and outdoor equipment.
• Photograph hail size where possible without preserving unsafe objects indoors.
• Check upper rooms and attics for new water entry, stains or daylight through openings.

Temporary protection and restoration

• Use qualified contractors for tarping, board-up or roof access.
• If water entered the building, document the path, remove standing water and assess insulation, ceilings, walls and contents.
• Keep records separating emergency stabilization, roof repair, interior drying and reconstruction.

Insurance communication

• Notify the insurer or broker promptly and ask about inspection and repair requirements.
• Confirm whether wind, hail and resulting water entry are handled under the policy and deductible.
• Retain photographs, weather information, estimates, invoices and damaged-material records.

Windstorm response

Roof leaks and slow water damage

Water damage insurance claim guide