When it comes to home investments, there are very few things as stressful as property damage after a storm. While some storms are just bad weather conditions that pass without causing more than minor cosmetic damage. Other storms, like hailstorms, can cause significant damage to your roof and siding, causing the safety and function of your home to be compromised.

It’s always best to be prepared in the event of such an emergency, which is why it’s important for homeowners to understand how to identify damage from a storm—and more importantly, how to begin the process of remediation. Roof replacement along with siding repair and other services are just some of the possible solutions you will need professional roofers for after your home has been damaged by hail.

At XL Contracting, we know how stressful it can be to suffer property damage after a hailstorm. While the process can be complicated, knowing what to do immediately after the damage is critical to the situation. In this guide, find out what steps you can take to recover right after a storm hits, and how to get started with a smooth and successful recovery.


A Step-by-Step Guide to Storm Remediation

Understanding how to navigate the restoration process after a storm can be tricky. However, when it comes to hail damage, homeowners are in luck. In most states, hail damage is covered by standard home insurance most of the time. In any case, this will depend on the policy and the damage itself.

To help, we have provided a simplified checklist of what to do so you are as equipped as possible to handle the aftermath of a hailstorm.

Get a Visual

The first thing to do is to do a visual inspection of the physical damage to your home. This will give you a very general idea of the damage that’s been done. Some of the problems to look for include:

  • Holes in the Roof
  • Split Seams
  • Missing Shingles or Tiles
  • Dented Shingles or Cracked or Broken Tiles
  • Granules accumulating in gutters and downspouts
  • Leaks in the Attic
  • Water Damage

In addition to these areas, check for any damage to your windows, siding, exterior ducts or fans, or any other area affected by the storm. It is important to document everything with photos and a description. You will need them for step two.

Submit your Reports

It’s true that most homeowner’s insurance includes hail damage in their coverage. However, you won’t get any assistance until you file your report or claim, and it’s approved. That’s why after documentation, you should immediately submit your information to your insurance provider and your county’s emergency management agency.

When it comes to filing your claim, you want to do so as soon as possible for two reasons. Number one, you most likely need the financial assistance to afford all of the repairs, especially if a roof replacement is involved. The second reason is that most providers have a specific window for when claims have to be submitted after a qualifying event. You don’t want to be denied coverage because you waited too long.

The last piece of advice we have for you concerning the claim is to read the policy carefully. You need to know exactly who to contact, so there are no unnecessary delays to the claim process. Also, most providers have the option to deny assistance in the event the damage is deemed cosmetic. If the damage only harms the appearance of your home, but not the function, it’s possible you won’t get approved. Knowing the policy will help you understand what will qualify.

Contact Professional Roofing Contractors

While working with your insurance provider, it’s time to start scouting out your roofers. Get at least three quotes if not more, and verify the roofing contractor’s own insurance, qualification, and services provided. You need a contractor that is experienced, knowledgeable, and provides fair pricing. Make sure the contractors you’re working with provide a full in-home inspection before providing an estimate.

Get an Inspection

This is the step that is often overlooked or not considered at all. It’s also the step that is the most costly to ignore. Make sure to get an actual insurance adjuster inspection. This inspection will help you make sure the insurance provider sees the full damage.

In addition to the inspection itself, this is the time to have your chosen roofing contractor present. Your contractor is responsible for making sure the adjuster inspects your property fairly. Remember, insurance companies have to pay when they approve a claim. Make sure your claim isn’t one that gets denied.

Roofing Specialists and Storm Damage Experts

The team at XL Contracting is proud to be one of the highest rated roofing contractors in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Whether you’re in need of storm damage repairs or replacements, exterior remodeling and renovation, or brand-new installation of windows, gutters, siding, or roofing—our team of qualified, expert roofers are here for you.

If you’re ready to get started with your next exterior remodeling project, we’d love to hear from you. Give us a call to speak with one of our agents about our professional services or fill out our online form to schedule your free, in-home quote.