Home · Blog · Storm Damage
Storm Damage

What to Do After a Hailstorm Damages Your Roof

A hailstorm just tore through your neighborhood. Here's exactly what to do next — in order — to protect your home and your insurance claim.

Step 1: Stay safe and wait for the storm to fully pass

Don't go outside or up on the roof during or immediately after a storm. Wet roofs are dangerous, and downed power lines or debris may still be a hazard. Your first job is simply to stay safe.

Step 2: Document what you can see from the ground

Once it's safe, take photos from the ground of anything you notice — dented gutters, hail on the ground (a coin next to it shows scale), damaged screens, or debris. Note the date and time of the storm. This early documentation can help your claim later.

Step 3: Get a professional inspection before you call your insurer

This is the step most homeowners get backwards. Before you file a claim, have a trusted roofing contractor inspect and document the damage thoroughly. That way you know the full extent of what happened, and you have detailed evidence — not just the adjuster's word for it.

Your adjuster works for the insurance company, whose business model is paying out as little as possible. We've seen homeowners get checks for minor repairs when their roof needed a full replacement. Having your own expert in your corner makes all the difference.

Step 4: File your claim

Contact your insurance company to start the claim. Provide your documentation. Your roofer can often be present for the adjuster's inspection to make sure nothing gets missed.

Step 5: Avoid the storm chasers

After a big storm, out-of-town "storm chaser" contractors flood the area with door-knockers and high-pressure pitches. Many disappear the moment the job is done. Stick with a licensed, local, insured contractor who will still be here next year — and who you can hold accountable.

How Indemnity Roofing helps

We handle storm restoration and insurance claims as our specialty. We inspect, document everything, work directly with your insurer, and restore your roof the right way. Call us for a free inspection after any storm.

Get a free roof inspection

Honest assessment, no pressure. Serving Shreveport, Tyler, Midland & Baton Rouge.

Book My Inspection
Keep Reading

More roofing advice

Insurance

Roof Insurance Claims: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Read more →
Roofing 101

Shingle vs. Metal Roofing: Which Is Best for Louisiana Weather?

Read more →
Roofing 101

How Long Does a Roof Last in the Gulf South?

Read more →

Storm damage doesn't wait. Neither should you.

Get a free, no-pressure roof inspection from a team that actually answers the phone.

Get My Free Inspection