Posted on April 18, 2023
ICHQ | Site Author
Even with proper maintenance and upkeep of your home, severe weather is out of your control and can cause significant damage to your roof.
One of the most common types of storm-related property risks is hail damage. After a hailstorm, you should investigate your roof and identify any damage to help prevent further deterioration and ensure timely repairs. You’ll also need to contact your insurance company and make a claim in case you notice significant damages.
Insurance Claim HQ can help you make a hail damage claim. Our homeowners insurance claim attorneys can offer you the needed assistance to get you compensated by your insurer. Contact us to begin.
What Are the Signs of Hail Damage?
The most obvious signs of hail damage to a roof are dents, cracks, and missing shingles. These signs differ with different roof or shingle materials.
For example, dents appear on metal roofs, while cracks and breaks appear on tile, slate, and asphalt shingle roofs.
Hail damage can also cause granule loss on asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying material and making it more vulnerable to further damage. You may also notice dark spots, which means you can see a black asphalt layer under the outer layer of the shingle.
You may notice divots or pockmarks on your roof or gutters. The shingles may also be loose, bruised, or missing. Additionally, if you notice your flashing is damaged or missing, there are high chances your roof is also damaged.
Can You Identify the Age of Hail Damage on a Roof?
Yes, it is possible to determine the age of hail damage on a roof. It’s important to distinguish old damage from new damage. This is because they may have happened outside the covered time period for insurance.
Fresh hail damage has a shiny or reflective appearance, while it may appear dull or weathered if it’s old.
If you have previously had your roof inspected for hail damage, any new damage may be easier to spot. It’s always advisable to document damages as they happen. You can take photos or videos of your roof after hail damage.
What Should Homeowners Do if They Suspect Hail Damage to Their Roofs?
If you suspect your roof has sustained hail damage, it’s important to take action promptly. First, contact a reputable roofing contractor to inspect your roof for damage. The contractor can provide an estimate for repairs or replacement and advise you on the best course of action.
It’s also important to contact your homeowner’s insurance company to report the damage and start the claims process. Documenting the damage with photographs and keeping a record of all repairs and expenses can also be helpful in the claims process.
Contact Our Experienced Hail Damage Attorneys Today
If you have suffered hail damage to your roof and are struggling to get your insurance company to cover the costs, our experienced attorneys at Insurance Claim HQ can help. We will do everything at our disposal to get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s discuss your next steps with your hail damage case.
FAQs About Dealing with Hail Damage
How long do I have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?
The timeframe for filing an insurance claim for hail damage can vary depending on your policy and insurance company, but generally most companies give up to one year from the day of the hailstorm. It’s important to review your policy and contact your insurance company as soon as possible after discovering the damage.
Can hail damage be repaired, or does the roof need to be replaced?
The extent of the damage and the type of roof and shingle materials will determine whether repairs or replacements are necessary. A reputable roofing contractor can provide an estimate for repairs or replacement based on the damage.
