Hail can damage a roof without causing a leak right away, so it's easy to miss until it becomes a bigger problem. Here's what to do in the days after a storm.
1. Stay off the roof
Wet or damaged shingles are slippery, and a fall isn't worth it. You can spot most clues from the ground.
2. Look for clues on the ground
- Dents in gutters, downspouts and metal vents
- Dings on your air conditioner's fins
- Torn window screens or chipped siding and paint
- Dents on cars, mailboxes and outdoor furniture
- Shingle granules piled up where downspouts empty
- Shredded leaves and plants
3. Take photos and write down the date
Photograph anything damaged, plus hailstones next to a coin or ruler if you can. Note the date and time of the storm. Your insurance company will ask for it.
4. Stop any leaks
If water is coming in, protect your belongings and get a temporary tarp on the roof. Most policies expect you to prevent further damage, so keep receipts for anything you spend.
5. Get a free roof inspection from a local roofer
A roofer can get on the roof safely and document the damage with photos. After big storms, out-of-state crews often go door to door. Before you sign anything, check that the roofer:
- has a local address and phone number
- carries liability insurance and will show you proof
- has local reviews and references
- gives you a written contract
A Colorado roofing contract has to list the scope of work, approximate costs and dates, and the roofer's contact and insurance information. You can cancel within 72 hours after your insurance company tells you in writing that the claim was denied in whole or in part. Roofers also can't pay or waive your deductible.
6. File your claim promptly
Your policy sets the deadline for reporting damage, and some are about a year from the storm date. Colorado law gives homeowners certain protections, but waiting only makes things harder: damage gets harder to tie to a specific storm, and new storms can cause new damage. Call your insurance company or file online, and write down your claim number.
7. Have your roofer at the adjuster's inspection
When the insurance adjuster comes out, it helps to have your roofer there to point out damage and make sure nothing is missed. Afterward, ask for a copy of the full estimate. Our guide on how to read your hail damage estimate explains what to look for.
This guide is general information for Colorado homeowners, not legal advice. Your policy's wording controls your coverage, so read it or ask your agent about your specific situation.