The short answer
The Initial Visual Inspection
The process typically starts with a comprehensive walk around your property. The adjuster looks at your roof's surface for visible signs of impact, like circular dents or missing asphalt shingle granules. They also check siding, window screens, and metal fixtures for corresponding dings and pockmarks. This initial survey helps them understand the storm's overall impact on your home's exterior.
After the ground-level review, the adjuster may use binoculars or a drone to safely assess roof damage. They are identifying patterns consistent with hail, which often appear as random, clustered indentations without a directional pattern like wind would cause. The size and density of the dents help them estimate the hailstone size that caused the damage.
Detailed Documentation of Damage
Accurate documentation is a critical part of the inspection. The adjuster takes numerous photographs and sometimes videos of all damaged areas from multiple angles. These images serve as evidence for the insurance claim, capturing the extent and specifics of each dent, crack, or broken component. This visual record is essential for the claims review process.
Measurements are also recorded during this phase. The adjuster may note the dimensions of damaged roof sections, count the number of affected shingles per roofing square, and measure the diameter of dents on soft metal vents. This quantitative data supports the photographic evidence and helps in preparing a detailed repair scope and cost estimate for your insurer.
Checking for Interior and Secondary Damage
Hail can compromise your home's waterproof envelope, leading to water intrusion. The adjuster will check your attic for signs of leaks, such as water stains on the roof decking or damp insulation. They look for daylight visible through roof sheathing, which indicates a puncture. This step determines if the storm caused hidden moisture problems.
They also inspect ceilings, walls, and floors in your living spaces for water stains, peeling paint, or warping. If hail broke a window or skylight, they will examine the surrounding area for water damage. Finding these secondary issues is important because the repair scope must address both the exterior impact and any resulting interior damage to properly restore your home.
- Attic space for wet insulation or stained wood.
- Ceilings, especially under roof valleys or dormers.
- Upper walls near eaves and roof lines.
- Around windows and skylights for moisture.
- Flooding in window wells or against the foundation.
- Electrical fixtures for signs of water exposure.
Understanding the Estimate and Scope
After the inspection, the adjuster creates a detailed report and estimate, often called a scope of loss. This document lists all damaged items and the proposed cost to repair or replace them. It includes line items for materials, labor, and sometimes debris removal. Your insurer uses this scope to determine the payout for your claim.
It is vital you review this estimate carefully. You can ask the adjuster to clarify any item you do not understand. If you believe damage was missed, you have the right to point it out. You may also want to share the scope with your chosen roofing or repair contractor for their review before repairs begin.
What Homeowners Should Do Next
Once you have the adjuster's report, you can start obtaining repair estimates from local contractors. Provide them with a copy of the insurance scope. A reputable contractor can help verify that the scope accurately reflects the necessary work. Choosing a contractor familiar with storm damage is often a prudent step.
Keep all communication with your insurer and adjuster in writing. Document your own photos and notes from the inspection. If disagreements arise about the scope or coverage, you may need to request a re-inspection or consult your policy documents. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. For any significant water intrusion found, a water damage assessment may be needed to prevent mold.
Talk to someone now
Call (941) 352-9167 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (941) 352-9167Frequently asked questions
What if I disagree with the adjuster's findings?
You can dispute the findings by providing your own documentation, like contractor estimates or additional photos. Request a re-inspection with your evidence. For complex disputes, you might hire a public adjuster or seek guidance from your state's department of insurance to understand your options.
When does homeowners insurance cover hail damage?
Most standard policies cover sudden, accidental hail damage. However, some policies have specific exclusions or high deductibles for wind or hail. You must review your policy's declarations page and exclusions. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered based on your specific contract terms.
Can hail damage lead to other problems later?
Yes, compromised shingles or roof penetrations can allow water to seep into your home over time. This hidden moisture can cause wood rot, damaged insulation, and mold growth. It's important to address roof repairs promptly to prevent costly secondary water damage and the need for structural repairs later.