What to do after a hail storm

1. Stay safe and stay off the roof. Wet, damaged roofs are dangerous. Everything below can be done from the ground.
2. Look for signs from the ground. Dented gutters, downspouts, vents or AC units, granules collecting at downspouts, and shingle pieces in the yard all suggest the roof took hits too.
3. Check inside. Look for new ceiling stains, damp spots and drips, especially in the attic and around skylights.
4. Take photos and note the date. Photograph damage to the house, cars and yard, and note when the storm hit.
5. Stop active leaks. Catch water in buckets and move belongings away. Call a roofer for temporary tarping.
6. Get a professional inspection. Hail damage is often invisible from the ground. A free inspection with a photo report tells you what is really there.
7. Call your insurance company. Report the damage and ask about your coverage and deductible. Keep your roofer's report handy.
8. Choose a local roofer. Out-of-town crews often follow storms. Work with a local, accredited company that will be here after the job is done.

Next: how roof insurance claims work →