Hail damage is a fact of life in Calgary, but handling it doesn’t have to be confusing. Here’s how to get your roof inspected, compare estimates and navigate your insurance claim after a hailstorm, without the guesswork.
When to Book a Roof Inspection After a Hailstorm
After a hailstorm, call a roof inspector right away to check for damage. If there is damage, timing is key because your insurance policy determines reporting deadlines, and you want to file your claim as soon as possible.
If there is damage, timing matters. Every policy sets its own deadline for reporting damage, and some are as short as 30 days, so check yours and file your claim as soon as possible. Waiting too long could put your coverage at risk.
It’s also vital to get a roof inspection after a hailstorm to check for leaks, roof deck damage or other issues that could be costly if left too long. Check your home’s interior for water stains or brown spots on ceilings and walls, and damp spots in the attic.
Get Roof Repair Estimates in Calgary
After an inspection, get a written estimate that details the labour, materials, disposal, and permits. Completing this step makes it easier to compare quotes and gives you a baseline for the adjuster’s assessment. At No Payne Roofing, we provide detailed, written estimates and can work directly with your insurance adjuster.
How to File a Hail Insurance Claim
Storm damage can be stressful, especially if you don’t know where to start. Once you determine your roof has sustained hail damage, follow these three main steps.
Step 1: Review your home insurance policy carefully. Reading your insurance policy’s declarations page is critical to understanding how much you’ll pay for the damage. Look for the terms actual cash value (ACV) and replacement cost value (RCV). RCV covers the cost of a full roof replacement or rebuild (minus your deductible). ACV pays what your roof was worth at the time of the damage: the cost to replace it, minus depreciation based on its age and condition.
Step 2: Keep a record of everything. Take photos and videos of the damage from the ground. For safety, never go up on the roof yourself. If the hail damage isn’t visible, ask the roof inspector for photos and videos. Keep detailed notes of the damage and receipts for temporary repairs. Photograph dents on gutters, vents, and siding to show hail hitting the property. Note the storm date, and photograph hailstones next to a coin for scale if you can.
Step 3: Contact your insurance representative right away. Reporting hail damage early can speed up your claim process and can help prove the damage was from a recent hailstorm. Once you file your claim, you’ll receive a claim number, and an adjuster will contact you to schedule an appointment to assess the damage. You can also ask your roofer to be there when the adjuster visits, so no damage gets missed.
Protect Your Home After the Next Hailstorm
Acting quickly after a hailstorm is the best way to protect your home and your claim. Book a roof inspection, document the damage, know what your policy covers and report the damage to your insurer as soon as possible. Contact No Payne Roofing for damage assessment, roof estimates and help working with your adjuster from start to finish.
