Hit by Hail? What to Do After a Hailstorm Damages Your Utah Roof

A sudden hailstorm can be a stressful experience for any homeowner. The sound of ice hammering against your roof is often followed by the worry of potential damage. In cities across Utah, from Salt Lake City to St. George, hail is a serious threat that can cause significant harm to your home's first line of defense.
If you suspect your roof has been damaged by hail, it's crucial to act quickly to prevent small issues from turning into major, costly problems. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take after a storm to ensure your home and family are safe, and you are prepared for the insurance claim process.
Key Takeaways
- Act quickly after a hailstorm to prevent further damage to your home.
- A professional inspection is the best way to identify and document hail damage.
- Partnering with a local, reputable roofer is essential for a successful insurance claim.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
Once the storm has passed, your first priority is to ensure the safety of everyone in your household. Look for immediate hazards like broken windows, downed power lines, or fallen tree branches before you begin assessing property damage.
Step 2: Conduct a Safe, Ground-Level Inspection
Before climbing on your roof—which can be dangerous, especially after a storm—start by inspecting your property from the ground. Use binoculars if you have them. Here’s what to look for:
- Dented Gutters and Downspouts: Metal components like gutters, downspouts, and roof flashing often show the most obvious signs of hail. If these are dented, there's a good chance your shingles are damaged as well.
- Damaged Siding and Windows: Check your home's siding for cracks, chips, or holes. Inspect window sills and frames for any signs of impact.
- Shingle Granules in Gutters: Hail can knock the protective granules off your asphalt shingles. You may see these tiny, sand-like particles collecting in your gutters or at the base of your downspouts.
- Visible Shingle Damage: Look for any shingles that are obviously missing, cracked, or have curled edges.
Step 3: Document Everything
While you should take photos of any obvious damage you see from the ground, our process is designed to handle the critical documentation for you. During our free inspection, we conduct a comprehensive assessment, taking high-resolution photos of all storm-related damage and checking for compliance with local Utah building codes—a step that is often missed but is critical for a successful claim. We compile this into a clear, honest photo report that becomes the foundation of your insurance claim.
Step 4: Get a Professional Utah Roof Inspection
Hail damage can be subtle and is often missed by an untrained eye. What might look like a small dent can be a serious issue that, if left unaddressed, can lead to leaks and structural damage over time. Our process begins with a free, comprehensive roof assessment where we identify all storm-related damage and provide you with a detailed, easy-to-understand photo report.
This no-obligation assessment gives you a complete, factual understanding of your roof's condition. It also helps you avoid "storm chasers"—out-of-town companies that show up after a storm offering quick, cheap repairs with subpar materials. Always choose a licensed, insured, and local contractor with a strong reputation in your community.
Step 5: File Your Claim with Expert Assistance
Navigating insurance claims can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. With our detailed damage report in hand, you have the evidence you need to file a strong claim.
At Robinhood Roofing, our dedicated insurance claim consultants simplify this process for you. We work directly with your insurance company, providing all necessary documentation and advocating on your behalf. We will:
- Handle all communication with the insurance adjuster.
- Meet the adjuster on-site to ensure all damage is documented and accounted for.
- Review the claim summary to ensure it covers all necessary repairs according to local building codes and fight for the maximum coverage you're entitled to.
Don't Wait – Protect Your Home Today
From Farmington to Holladay, Utah homeowners know that severe weather is a part of life. If a hailstorm has impacted your home, don't delay.
Our team is here to provide you with an honest assessment and guide you through every step of the hail damage repair and insurance process. Let us help you protect your most valuable asset.
Call Us Now For an Honest AssessmentWant to see examples of our work? Check out our portfolio of completed projects or read more roofing tips and insights.