Spring in Northwest Arkansas brings severe storms, and hail is the most common reason homeowners here end up needing a new roof. Here's what to do in the days after a hail storm, in order.
1. Stay Safe and Stay Off the Roof
Wet, damaged roofs are slippery, and hail damage is hard to see from up there anyway. Check for damage from the ground and leave the roof to a professional.
2. Look for Signs of Damage From the Ground
- Dents in gutters, downspouts, metal vents and window wraps
- Dings or spatter marks on your mailbox, grill, car or patio furniture
- Shingle granules collecting at the bottom of downspouts
- Torn window screens or chipped siding paint
- Shingles that look bruised, cracked or missing
If you see dents on the soft metal around your house, your roof very likely took hits too.
3. Document Everything
Take dated photos of damage you can see from the ground, hailstones next to a coin or ruler if you can, and any leaks or ceiling stains inside. Write down the date and time of the storm.
4. Stop Active Leaks
If water is coming in, put a bucket under it, move belongings and call a roofer to tarp the roof. Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage.
5. Get a Free Roof Inspection
A roofer can get up on the roof and check shingles, flashing, vents and ridge caps for hail hits. An honest roofer will also tell you when damage is minor and not worth a claim. Filing for a small amount can still count against you with some insurers.
6. Understand Your Insurance Policy
Before filing, look at your policy for:
- Your deductible. Many policies now carry a separate or percentage deductible for wind and hail.
- Replacement cost vs. actual cash value. This affects how much of the roof's value the insurer pays.
- Filing deadlines. Policies set time limits for reporting damage. Don't wait months.
7. File the Claim and Meet the Adjuster
Your insurer will send an adjuster to inspect the roof. Having your photos, the storm date and your roofer's findings ready makes the process smoother. If your claim is approved, you'll typically pay your deductible and insurance covers the approved repairs or replacement.
8. Watch Out for Storm Chasers
After big hail, out-of-state crews flood Northwest Arkansas knocking on doors. Before you sign anything, check that the contractor:
- Has a real local address and phone number
- Is licensed and insured, and will show you proof
- Has local reviews and references
- Gives you a clear written estimate and doesn't pressure you to sign on the spot
- Will still be around to stand behind the work next year
Shewmaker Roofing is locally owned, based at 701 NW McNelly Rd in Bentonville, commercially licensed and fully insured. If you think hail hit your roof, call us at (479) 372-3622 for a free inspection. If the damage qualifies for a claim, we'll help guide you through the process.