Living in beautiful Colorado Springs, nestled in the shadow of Pikes Peak and with stunning views of the Front Range, comes with its share of natural challenges. One of the most common and potentially damaging events we face is a hailstorm. If you’re reading this, chances are your home has just weathered one, and you’re likely staring at the aftermath, wondering what to do next. Take a deep breath; you’re not alone. Many homeowners in neighborhoods like Broadmoor (80906) and Old Colorado City go through this, and there’s a clear path to recovery. This guide will walk you through the immediate next steps to ensure your safety, prevent further damage, and navigate the insurance claim process effectively, right here in the Pikes Peak region.
Safety First: Assessing the Immediate Danger
Your immediate priority after a hailstorm should be ensuring the safety of yourself and your family. Even if the storm has passed, there might be lingering hazards.
Stay Inside: Avoid going outside immediately after the hail stops. There could still be falling debris, and conditions might be slippery.
Check for Electrical Hazards: Look for any downed power lines near your property. If you see any, stay far away and immediately contact Colorado Springs Utilities. Do not attempt to move them yourself.
Listen for Structural Sounds: Be aware of any unusual creaking or cracking sounds in your home, which could indicate structural damage. If you suspect significant structural damage, evacuate the affected areas.
Avoid Touching Puddles: Hailstorms can sometimes damage electrical equipment outdoors, so avoid contact with standing water around your property.
Once the immediate danger has passed and it’s safe to venture outside for a quick assessment, proceed cautiously.
Initial Roof Assessment: What You Can See From the Ground
While a thorough roof inspection will require a professional, you can perform an initial assessment from the ground using binoculars. Look for the following:
Missing or Damaged Shingles: This is the most obvious sign of hail damage. Look for shingles that are cracked, chipped, dented, or completely missing. Pay attention to areas facing the direction the storm came from, as these will likely have sustained the most impact.
Dents or Damage to Roof Vents, Gutters, and Flashing: Hail can dent metal components on your roof, such as vents, gutters, and the flashing around chimneys and other roof penetrations.
Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles have a protective layer of granules. Hail impact can dislodge these granules, which you might see accumulated in your gutters or on the ground around your home in areas like Briargate (80920). Significant granule loss can reduce the lifespan of your shingles.
Damage to Other Property: Check your siding, windows, decks, and vehicles for hail damage as well. This information will be important when filing your insurance claim.
Document Everything: Your Record is Key
Meticulous documentation is crucial when dealing with insurance companies.
Take Photos and Videos: Capture clear photos and videos of any visible damage to your roof and surrounding property. Focus on close-ups of damaged areas and wider shots to provide context. Make sure to note the date and time the photos and videos were taken.
Make Notes: Write down everything you observe, including the extent of the damage, the time the hailstorm occurred, and any initial steps you took.
Keep Samples (If Safe): If you find any loose or damaged shingles or other debris on the ground, collect a few samples if it’s safe to do so. These can be helpful for the insurance adjuster.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Filing Your Claim
Once you’ve assessed the initial damage and documented it thoroughly, your next step is to contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Review Your Policy: Before calling, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand your coverage, deductible, and any specific procedures for filing a claim.
Provide Detailed Information: When you call your insurer, be prepared to provide them with detailed information about the event, including the date and time of the hailstorm, the type of damage you’ve observed, and your policy number.
Ask About the Claims Process: Understand what the next steps will be, including when an adjuster will be assigned to your case and what documentation they will require. Ask for a claim number for your reference.
Inquire About Temporary Repairs: Ask your insurance representative about whether your policy covers temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering a damaged roof with a tarp.
Preventing Further Damage: Temporary Measures
While you wait for the insurance adjuster and a professional roofing contractor, it’s essential to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage to your home, especially if there are breaches in your roof.
Cover Exposed Areas: If you have missing or significantly damaged shingles and it’s safe to do so, you can attempt to cover these areas with a tarp. Secure the tarp properly to prevent it from blowing away. Be extremely cautious if you decide to go on your roof, and ideally, leave this to a professional.
Remove Debris: Clear any loose debris from your gutters and around your foundation to prevent drainage issues.
Protect Interior Belongings: If you notice any leaks inside your home, move furniture and other valuable items away from the affected areas and use buckets or containers to catch the water.
Finding a Reputable Roofing Contractor: Proceed with Caution
Colorado Springs sees an influx of roofing contractors after a significant hailstorm. While many are reputable, there are also those who may try to take advantage of homeowners in a vulnerable situation, particularly in areas like Powers (80923). It’s crucial to choose a local and trustworthy contractor.
Get Multiple Estimates: Don’t rely on the first contractor you speak with. Obtain at least three estimates from different reputable roofing companies in the Colorado Springs area.
Check Credentials and Reviews: Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured. Check online reviews and ask for references from previous clients, preferably in your local area. Look for companies with a strong presence in the Colorado Springs community.
Beware of High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of contractors who pressure you to sign a contract immediately or who offer unusually low bids. These can be red flags.
Understand the Contract: Carefully review the contract before signing. Ensure it clearly outlines the scope of work, materials to be used, payment terms, and warranties.
Don’t Pay Upfront in Full: Avoid paying the full contract amount upfront. A reputable contractor will typically ask for a deposit and the remaining balance upon completion of the work.
The Insurance Adjuster’s Visit: What to Expect
Once you’ve filed your claim, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage.
Be Present: If possible, be present during the adjuster’s inspection. This will allow you to point out the damage you’ve documented and answer any questions they may have.
Share Your Documentation: Provide the adjuster with the photos, videos, and notes you’ve compiled.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the adjuster questions about their assessment, the repair process, and your coverage.
Get a Copy of the Report: Ask for a copy of the adjuster’s report for your records.
Understanding the Insurance Payout:
Your insurance payout will typically be based on the adjuster’s assessment and your policy coverage. Understand the difference between Actual Cash Value (ACV) and Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies, as this will affect the amount you receive.
ACV Policies: These policies pay the current market value of your damaged roof, taking depreciation into account.
RCV Policies: These policies pay the cost to replace your damaged roof with a new one, although you may initially receive the ACV and then the remaining amount once the repairs are completed.
Navigating the Repair Process:
Once your claim is approved and you’ve chosen a contractor, the repair process will begin. Ensure clear communication with your contractor throughout the project.
Key Steps After a Hailstorm:
Staying Informed and Patient:
Dealing with hail damage can be a stressful process. Stay informed, keep detailed records, and don’t hesitate to ask questions of your insurance company and your contractor. Be patient, as the demand for roofing services can be high after a major hailstorm in areas like Security-Widefield (80911). By following these steps, you can navigate the aftermath of a Colorado Springs hailstorm effectively and get your home back in order. Remember the resilience of our community, from the vibrant downtown area to the quiet residential streets, we all work together to recover.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How soon after the hailstorm should I file an insurance claim?
A: As soon as possible, ideally within 24-48 hours of the event.
Q: Can I temporarily repair my roof myself?
A: Yes, you can take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, such as covering leaks with tarps, if it is safe to do so.
Q: How many estimates should I get from roofing contractors?
A: You should aim to get at least three estimates from different reputable local roofing companies.
Q: What if I don’t see any visible damage to my roof from the ground?
A: It’s still advisable to have a professional roofer inspect your roof, as hail damage can sometimes be subtle and not easily visible from the ground.
Q: Will my insurance rates go up if I file a hail damage claim?
A: This can vary depending on your insurance company and policy. It’s best to discuss this directly with your insurance agent.
