Hail season in North Texas can turn a normal afternoon into a stressful week. The steps you take in the first few days after a storm can make a real difference in how smoothly your repair and any insurance claim go. Here is the checklist we walk homeowners through.
1. Stay safe and stay off the roof
Wet or hail covered shingles are slick, and storm damage can hide weak spots. Look from the ground. If you see a hole, a tree on the roof, or water coming inside, move valuables away from the leak and call for help.
2. Prevent more damage
Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps to keep damage from getting worse. That can mean placing buckets under a leak or having a tarp installed. Keep receipts for anything you spend. Do not make permanent repairs before the damage is documented.
3. Document what you can see
- Take dated photos of hail on the ground, ideally next to a coin or ruler for size
- Photograph dents on gutters, downspouts, vents, AC units, mailboxes, and vehicles
- Note the date and approximate time of the storm
- Photograph any interior water stains
Soft metals like gutters and AC fins often show hail impacts clearly even when roof damage is hard to see from the ground.
4. Get your roof properly investigated
Not all inspections are equal. A quick look and a verbal opinion is not the same as a documented investigation. Hail damage on shingles can be subtle: bruising, granule loss, and fractured mats that are easy to miss. A forensic roof investigation documents the cause and extent of the damage with photos and measurements, so you know the truth about your roof before you decide anything.
5. Read your policy and call your insurance company
Find your declarations page. It shows your coverage and your deductible. Many Texas policies set deadlines for reporting storm damage, so do not wait. If you are not sure what the terms mean, our insurance claim guide explains RCV, ACV, depreciation, and supplements in plain English.
6. Be careful who you hire
Storms bring out door knockers and out of town crews. Before you sign anything, check:
- Is the company local, with a real track record and reviews you can verify?
- What manufacturer certifications do they hold?
- Do they offer to waive or cover your deductible? In Texas, that is illegal, and it is a red flag.
Your deductible is your share of the cost, and it is paid to the contractor who does the work. Our deductible guide explains why.
7. Meet the adjuster with your roofer
Having your contractor on site when the adjuster inspects helps make sure documented damage is seen and discussed. It does not guarantee an outcome, but it helps the conversation start from facts.
We are here when the storm passes
Branded E® is based in Decatur and serves Wise County and North Texas. If a storm just rolled through, schedule a roof inspection or call (940) 255-0972.