Hail damage can happen quickly, and you’ll need a licensed contractor to alleviate all damages. Until you call, however, you can fix the damage yourself. That said, you’ll need to check the “damage hot spots” normally birthed from a long hail storm. Before contacting your roofing company, check out the post-storm guide below. Be safe, be careful and remedy any post-hail damage in these areas:
Area One: Windows
Any broken windows should be covered with plywood immediately. Even if the hail has passed, subsequent rainfall can cause water damage. Remember: Wear thick boots, because broken windows can be incredibly dangerous.
Area Two: The Roof
You’d be surprised how many roofs are damaged from hail storms. It’s your responsibility to check the shingles, the gutters and the overhands. Even a small hole can create devastating damages, so treat any lost shingles seriously. Like broken windows, you can cover any problem areas with plywood until a professional provider arrives. Consider covering these areas with tarps, too.
Area Three: The Vehicles
During the claims progress, you’ll need to document any automotive damages. Assuming you don’t have a carport, you should examine each vehicle’s windshield, windows and paint as part of the disaster restoration process. Sometimes, home insurance policies coincide with car insurance policies. You might be able to receive compensation for automotive damages through your home’s comprehensive coverage plan.
Area Four: The Doors
If you have any sliding doors, or doors with windows, you’ll need to examine them for hail damage. Hail can travel sideways in strong winds, so even doors regularly protected by an overhang, a screen porch or a large deck area, can be damaged in a hail storm. If you have a hail damaged roof, you’re likely sporting several hail damaged doors, too.
Area Five: The Garden Area
While not part of the household, any bushes, shrubs and garden areas can sustain hail damage. Hail can pester and uproot plants, creating long-term damage to grown fruits and vegetables. If you can record these damages, you may be able to increase your claim’s covered amounts—if not slightly. Of course, you should discuss coverage options with your provider first. Garden recovery is often inexpensive, but larger gardens serving as landscape accessories may receive decent coverage.
Remember to be safe. Hail is ice: While it may melt, it can be slippery. Just after a storm, tell neighbors to avoid any hail-damaged areas. Also, consider calling emergency services if the damages pose serious threats to your family.