Home Insurance

Step-By-Step Guide to Having Your Roof Inspected and Replaced After Hail Damage 

It's that time of year and Colorado hailstorms can cause significant damage to your roof, leading to costly repairs or even the need for a complete replacement. If you're a homeowner dealing with hail damage, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to navigate the process of having your roof inspected and replaced by your insurance company.

1. Assess the Damage

Immediately after the hailstorm:

  • Safety First: Ensure your property is safe to inspect. Look for loose shingles, broken tiles, and other visible damages from the ground.
  • Document the Damage: Take clear, detailed photos of the roof and any other affected areas. This will be crucial evidence for your insurance claim.
  • Check for Leaks: Inspect your attic and ceilings for any signs of water intrusion.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company:

  • File a Claim: Call your insurance company’s claims department to report the damage. Provide them with details of the damage and the date and time of the hailstorm.
  • Claim Number: Get a claim number for reference and write it down for future communications.

3. Hire a Professional Roofer

Find a reputable roofing contractor:

  • Local Experts: Choose a roofer who is experienced in hail damage and familiar with local building codes and regulations.
  • Estimates: Get multiple estimates to understand the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs or replacement.
  • Licensed and Insured: Ensure the contractor is licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability.

4. Schedule an Inspection

Arrange for inspections:

  • Insurance Adjuster: Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Make sure to be present during the inspection.
  • Roofer’s Inspection: Have your roofing contractor present during the insurance adjuster’s visit to ensure all damages are accurately assessed and documented.

5. Review the Insurance Estimate

Compare estimates:

  • Insurance Estimate: Review the estimate provided by the insurance adjuster.
  • Roofer’s Estimate: Compare it with the estimate from your roofing contractor to ensure all necessary repairs are included.
  • Discrepancies: If there are discrepancies, your roofer can help negotiate with the insurance company to get a fair settlement.

6. Repair or Replace the Roof

Proceed with the work:

  • Approval: Once the claim is approved and you receive the payout, you can schedule the repairs or replacement.
  • Contract: Sign a contract with your chosen roofing contractor outlining the scope of work, materials to be used, and the timeline.
  • Permits: Ensure all necessary permits are obtained before starting the work.

7. Final Inspection and Payment

Complete the process:

  • Final Inspection: After the work is completed, inspect the roof to ensure all agreed-upon work has been done to your satisfaction.
  • Payment: Make the final payment to the roofing contractor. Your insurance company may require proof of completion before releasing the final payment.
  • Documentation: Keep all receipts, contracts, and documentation for your records.

8. Prevent Future Damage

Take preventive measures:

  • Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular roof inspections and maintenance to keep your roof in good condition.
  • Impact-Resistant Materials: Consider upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials to minimize future hail damage.

Following these steps can help ensure a smooth process when dealing with hail damage and working with your insurance company to replace your roof. Remember, thorough documentation and choosing the right professionals are key to a successful claim and repair experience.