Should I Get My Roof Inspected After a Hailstorm

After A Hailstorm, Acting Quickly Can Prevent Hidden Damage From Worsening. A professional roof inspection identifies issues with shingles, flashing, and underlayment that are not always visible from the ground and helps with insurance claims and timely repairs.

Quick Answer	When To Inspect	Who To Call
Yes—Get An Inspection If Hail Size Exceeded Pea Size Or You Notice Damaged Vehicles, Siding, Or Gutters.	Within Days For Visible Damage, Within 30 Days For Insurance Documentation.	Licensed Roofing Contractor And Insurance Adjuster

Why A Post‑Hailstorm Roof Inspection Matters

Hail Can Cause Immediate And Progressive Damage That Compromises The Roof’s Weatherproofing. Even small dents can crack shingle granules, shorten shingle life, or damage the underlayment, leading to leaks weeks or months after the storm.

Inspections Document Damage For Insurance Claims And Create A Repair Roadmap. Proper documentation increases the chance of fair claim settlements and helps prioritize repairs to prevent interior water damage and mold growth.

Common Types Of Hail Damage To Look For

Impact Cracks, Bruising, Granule Loss, And Exposed Felt Or Corners Are Frequent Signs Of Hail Damage. Metal flashing, vents, skylights, gutters, and siding are also at risk and should be checked.

• Shingle Bruising Or Granule Loss: Look For Dark Spots Or Smooth Areas Where Granules Are Missing.
• Cracked Or Split Shingles: May Allow Water To Penetrate The Roof Deck.
• Damaged Flashing And Vents: Dents Or Gaps Around Penetrations Increase Leak Risk.
• Gutter And Siding Dents: Indicate Hail Intensity And Help Correlate Roof Damage.

When To Schedule A Roof Inspection

Schedule An Inspection Immediately If You See Visible Damage, Notice Interior Leaks, Or If Hail Size Was Quarter‑Sized Or Larger. A rapid inspection helps prevent secondary damage and preserves evidence for claims.

If Damage Is Not Obvious, Schedule A Professional Inspection Within 30 Days. Many insurers require prompt reporting; waiting can lead to claim denial or increased repair costs when problems worsen.

What A Professional Roof Inspection Involves

A Certified Roofer Performs A Thorough Exterior And Interior Evaluation, Takes Photos, And Provides A Written Report. The process includes roof surface assessment, attic inspection for leaks, and evaluation of flashing, gutters, and skylights.

1. Exterior Roof Surfacing: Close Visual Examination And UV Or Chalk Tests For Granule Loss.
2. Attic Check: Inspect For Damp Spots, Stains, Or Mold That Indicate Leaks.
3. Documentation: High‑Resolution Photos, Notes On Hail Size Correlation, And Repair Recommendations.

DIY Inspection Tips And Safety Considerations

Homeowners Can Do An Initial Assessment From The Ground Using Binoculars And By Checking The Attic For Signs Of Water Entry. Avoid Climbing Ladders Or Walking On A Wet Or Compromised Roof To Prevent Injury and further damage.

Photograph Any Damage To Vehicles, Gutters, Siding, And Roofing Materials—These Photos Help Support Insurance Claims. Record Storm Date, Hail Size Reports, And Any Emergency Repairs Performed.

DIY Versus Professional Inspection: When Pros Are Necessary

Small, Cosmetic Dings May Be Handled With A Visual Ground Inspection, But Structural Or Hidden Damage Requires A Licensed Professional. A roofer’s training identifies subtle indicators like shingle bruising or underlayment failure that a homeowner can miss.

Insurance Companies Often Prefer Or Require Professional Reports For Claim Approval. Using a certified inspector increases credibility and can expedite the claim adjustment process.

How Inspections Affect Insurance Claims

Proper Inspection Documentation Is Crucial For Filing A Successful Hail Damage Claim. Insurers typically require photos, a dated inspection report, and proof that damage resulted from the storm rather than wear and tear.

Homeowners Should Contact Their Insurance Company Promptly, Follow The Company’s Documentation Guidelines, And Avoid Unauthorized Full‑Scale Repairs Before An Adjuster Inspects. Emergency temporary fixes are acceptable when necessary to prevent further damage.

Typical Inspection Costs And Potential Savings

Many Roof Inspections For Storm Damage Are Low‑Cost Or Free When Offered As Part Of A Roofing Contractor’s Services. Paid inspections range based on region and complexity, but the cost is often small compared to potential claim payouts for major repairs.

Early Inspection And Timely Repairs Can Prevent Costly Interior Damage And Mold, Often Saving Thousands Over Time. Proper documentation also improves chances of full insurance reimbursement.

Steps To Take Immediately After A Hailstorm

• Ensure Household Safety: Check For Broken Windows, Downed Power Lines, And Other Hazards Before Inspecting The Roof.
• Document Exterior Damage: Photograph Vehicles, Siding, Gutters, And Any Visible Roof Issues From The Ground.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: Report The Storm Damage And Ask About Their Preferred Next Steps For Inspections And Claims.
• Schedule A Professional Roof Inspection Promptly: Preferably Within Days For Visible Damage, Within 30 Days Otherwise.

Choosing A Qualified Roof Inspector

Select A Licensed, Insured Contractor With Storm‑Damage Experience And Positive Local Reviews. Verify Licenses, Ask For References, And Confirm They Will Provide A Detailed Written Report And Photos.

Avoid Pressure To Sign Contracts Immediately—Get Multiple Estimates If Possible And Ensure The Estimate Breaks Out Material, Labor, And Any Insurance Coordination Services. Beware Of Door‑To‑Door Storm Chasers And High Upfront Demands.

Preventive Measures To Reduce Future Hail Risk

Upgrade To Hail‑Resistant Roofing Materials, Such As Class 4 Impact‑Rated Shingles, To Lower Future Damage And Insurance Premiums. Reinforce Flashing, Use Impact‑Resistant Vents, And Maintain Proper Attic Ventilation To Prolong Roofing System Life.

Landscape Strategically To Protect Exposed Areas And Keep Gutters Clear To Prevent Water Backup During Post‑Storm Rains. Periodic Professional Roof Maintenance Extends Lifespan And Helps Detect Issues Early.

Common Myths About Hail Damage And Inspections

Myth: Small Hail Can’t Harm A Roof. Reality: Repeated Small Impacts Or High‑Velocity Small Hail Can Cause Significant Granule Loss And Bruising.

Myth: If There’s No Leak, There’s No Damage. Reality: Hidden Damage To Shingle Granules Or Underlayment Can Lead To Leaks Later—Inspections Catch These Early.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long After A Hailstorm Should An Inspection Occur?

Ideally Within Days For Visible Damage And Within 30 Days For Documentation Purposes; Sooner If Interior Leaks Appear.

Will Insurance Always Cover Hail Damage?

Coverage Depends On The Policy, Deductible, And Whether Damage Is Storm‑Related Versus Wear And Tear; Proper Inspection Documentation Improves Approval Odds.

Can An Inspector Determine Hail Size From Damage?

Inspectors Correlate Damage Patterns With Hail Size Reports And Nearby Property Damage, But Exact Hail Diameter Is Often Estimated From Multiple Indicators.

Resources And Next Steps

Homeowners Should Keep Storm Photos, Inspection Reports, And Insurance Correspondence Organized. Contact Local Licensed Roofing Contractors For Inspections And Request Detailed Written Estimates That Include Photos And Material Specifications.

Prompt Professional Inspection After A Hailstorm Is A Smart, Cost‑Effective Step To Protect Home Value, Maintain Safety, And Maximize Insurance Recoveries.