Hail Damage Checklist: What Wisconsin Homeowners Should Do After a Storm

Wisconsin weather can be unpredictable, especially during spring and summer storm season. While thunderstorms often pass quickly, hail can leave behind significant damage to your home, roof, siding, gutters, windows, and even vehicles. In some cases, the damage isn’t immediately visible, making it important to know what steps to take after a storm.

If your property has been hit by hail, following a simple checklist can help protect your home and make the insurance claims process smoother.

1. Put Safety First

Before inspecting your property, make sure it is safe to go outside. Downed power lines, broken glass, fallen tree limbs, and other storm-related hazards can pose serious risks.

If you suspect structural damage to your home or notice exposed electrical components, contact the appropriate professionals before attempting any cleanup or repairs.

2. Perform a Visual Inspection

Once conditions are safe, walk around your property and look for obvious signs of hail damage. Common areas to inspect include:

• Roof shingles
• Siding
• Gutters and downspouts
• Windows and screens
• Garage doors
• Outdoor furniture
• Air conditioning units
• Vehicles

Keep in mind that hail damage isn’t always easy to spot from the ground. Even if your roof appears intact, hidden damage can lead to leaks and costly repairs over time.

3. Document Any Damage

Take photos and videos of any visible damage as soon as possible. Be sure to capture multiple angles and wide shots of affected areas.

Documentation can be valuable when filing an insurance claim and helps establish the condition of your property immediately following the storm.

Consider noting:

• Date and time of the storm
• Size of the hail (if known)
• Areas of visible damage
• Any immediate concerns such as leaks or broken windows

4. Prevent Additional Damage

If your home has sustained damage that could worsen, take reasonable steps to protect the property.

Examples may include:

• Covering broken windows
• Placing tarps over exposed areas
• Removing water from affected interior spaces

Be sure to keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary protective measures, as they may be relevant during the claims process.

5. Contact Your Insurance Agent

One of the most important steps after a hailstorm is contacting your insurance agent. Your agent can help explain your coverage, discuss your deductible, and guide you through the claims process.

Every policy is different, so it’s helpful to speak with someone who understands your specific coverage and can answer any questions you may have.

An experienced local insurance agency can also help you understand what information may be needed to support your claim.

6. Schedule a Professional Inspection

Not all hail damage is obvious. Roofing professionals can often identify issues that homeowners may miss, including bruised shingles, granule loss, and other forms of hidden roof damage.

A professional inspection can provide valuable information about the condition of your property and help determine whether repairs are necessary.

When selecting a contractor, work with reputable local companies and be cautious of “storm chasers” who travel into affected areas immediately after severe weather events.

7. Keep Records Throughout the Process

If you decide to file a claim, keep copies of:

• Photos and videos
• Inspection reports
• Estimates
• Invoices
• Communication with contractors
• Correspondence related to your claim

Organized documentation can help streamline the process and ensure you have important information readily available.

Be Prepared Before the Next Storm

While no one can prevent severe weather, reviewing your homeowners insurance coverage before storm season can help you better understand what protection is available if damage occurs.

Knowing your deductible, coverage limits, and claim procedures ahead of time can help reduce stress when severe weather strikes.

If you’re unsure about your current coverage, speaking with a trusted insurance professional can provide peace of mind and help ensure you’re adequately protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does homeowners insurance cover hail damage?

Many homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for hail damage, but coverage details, exclusions, and deductibles can vary. Review your policy or speak with your insurance agent to understand your specific coverage.

How soon should I report hail damage?

It’s generally a good idea to report potential damage as soon as possible. Prompt reporting can help move the claims process forward and prevent additional issues from developing.

Can hail damage cause roof leaks later?

Yes. Even if a roof does not leak immediately after a storm, hail can weaken roofing materials and create problems that may become noticeable months later.

Should I get a roof inspection after a hailstorm?

A professional inspection can help identify hidden damage that may not be visible from the ground. This is especially important after severe storms with larger hail.

What if I don’t see any damage?

Some hail damage can be difficult to detect without a trained eye. If your area experienced a significant hailstorm, it may be worthwhile to schedule an inspection for added peace of mind.

What should I do before filing a claim?

Document the damage, take photos, prevent further damage if possible, and contact your insurance agent to discuss your options and next steps.