How do you claim hail storm damage on your roof?
Short answer. Check from the ground for signs of hail such as dented gutters, vents and screens and granules collecting at the downspouts, then have a roofer inspect the shingles up close. If functional damage is confirmed, report the claim with the storm date, have your roofer meet the adjuster, and review the estimate before work begins.
What you can check safely
- Downspout outlets: a fresh pile of shingle granules after the storm.
- Gutters and fascia metal: round dents along the top edge.
- Vents and roof caps: dents visible from the yard or with binoculars.
- Window screens and AC fins: tears and flattened fins.
- Siding and paint: chips, cracks and spatter marks.
These do not prove roof damage by themselves, but they show hail of some size reached your house.
What needs a professional
Shingle bruises are judged by touch and close inspection: a soft spot or cracked mat under missing granules. A roofer should examine every slope, photograph the hits and check the accessories. On steep or high roofs, drone photos add coverage.
Making the claim
- Confirm the date of the storm.
- Report through the app, phone line or your agent, and get a claim number.
- Schedule the adjuster for a time your roofer can attend.
- Ask for the estimate and photo report in writing.
- Compare it with your roofer's scope and request a supplement or reinspection for gaps.
- Sign your roofing contract, complete the work, and send the final invoice.
If the adjuster says no
Ask which slopes were inspected and how many hits were counted. If your roofer's photos show more, a reinspection request with those photos is the next step; see requesting a reinspection and what adjusters look for.