Steps To Take After a Hail Storm

Posted by Roof It Right No Comments on Steps To Take After a Hail Storm Uncategorized

Steps To Take After a Hail Storm

Florida roofs take a pounding during storm season. Local roofs experience more wear and tear due to our region’s susceptibility to storms. If your home or business has been hit by a recent hail storm, this blog will discuss the steps you should take.

Steps To Take After a Florida Hail Storm:   

Step 1: Beware of fly by night roofers

A reputable Florida roofing contractor will never show up at your home without an appointment, or pressure you to sign over your insurance rights. Storm chasing roofers, also known as “fly by night” roofers- canvas neighborhoods hit by recent hail and thunderstorms. A knock on the door, comes with a promise of a free roof, and pressure to sign over your insurance rights. If you encounter a storm chasing roofer, stop immediately and call a trusted local roofing professional. Fly by night roofers are often out of business or operating under a different name when a customer calls to make a warranty claim. Do not sign any paperwork until you have done your research. Remember a reputable roofer will never show up without an appointment.   

Step 2: Document damage

Take pictures and document storm damage and debris within your view. Check windows and skylights. If you find broken glass, cracked glass, dents, or splatter marks around your windows, this could be an indicator of roof damage. Check for downed limbs, missing shingles, or other visible damage to the actual roof. Do you best to document / take pictures from the ground. If shingles or debris came from the neighbors? Let them know about the damage.

Step 3: Call a trusted roofing professional

It’s important to get the job done right the first time. Remember beware of storm chasing roofers. A trusted local Florida roofing contractor will still be in business should you need to make a warranty claim years from now, and additionally offers the quality and care your home or business deserves. Reputable roofing contractors always offer free estimates. Make sure you get a professional opinion before you sign.     

Step 4: Review your insurance policy

Most insurance policies cover hail damage. That said, you will want to review your policy and refresh yourself with the details of your coverage. For instance, some insurance companies have a time limitation for filing a hail damage claim. Remember, DO NOT sign over your insurance rights to a door knocker, or “storm chasing” roofer. If you have questions about filing a clam we’re here to help.

Step 5: Prep for next storm

Ensuring your roofing system is operating at 100% efficiency can help avoid future storm damage. Clean out your gutters. Propper flow and drainage of water away from the home is critical when it comes to protecting your property in a storm. Clogged gutters and overflow can cause serious problems, including mold and foundation damage. Additionally, trim tree limbs over or near the home. Untrimmed trees become projectiles that often damage roofs in severe storms. Check the attic / crawl space for signs of mold, rot, or water damage. If you spot something that doesn’t look right, schedule an inspection with a trusted local roofer.

We hope this blog helps you understand the steps you should take after a Florida hailstorm. If you need further assistance, our professionals at Roof It Right are here to help. Contact us today for Florida’s preeminent roofing experience. Proudly serving Jacksonville, Gainesville, Daytona Beach, and surrounding areas.