In the first 24 hours after a hailstorm, focus on safety, document what you can see from the ground, prevent further damage with temporary protection where needed, and schedule a professional roof inspection. Most hail damage can’t be confirmed from the ground, so photo-documented inspection is the critical step.
Step 1: Check for Safety Hazards
Look for downed power lines, broken glass, and dangling limbs before walking the property. If windows are broken or water is entering, keep family and pets clear of affected rooms.
Step 2: Document From the Ground
Photograph hailstones next to a coin or tape measure, dents in gutters and downspouts, damaged window screens, and any visible roof debris in the yard. Time-stamped photos help establish when the damage occurred.
Step 3: Prevent Further Damage
If water is entering the home, place containers under active leaks and move belongings out of the way. Temporary protection such as tarping should be handled safely — a contractor can coordinate emergency protection so you don’t need to climb a damaged roof.
Step 4: Schedule a Professional Inspection
Bruising, mat fracture, and soft-metal impacts are rarely visible from the ground. A professional roof inspection documents the conditions with photographs and measurements and gives you a written scope of what the storm actually did. Learn more about hail damage restoration in Richardson and across DFW, or contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I call my insurance company first or get an inspection first?
Many homeowners choose to have the damage professionally documented first so they understand what actually happened. APGC provides photographs, measurements, and repair scopes; decisions about filing a claim always remain with you and your carrier.
Is a hail inspection free?
Yes. APGC provides a no-obligation inspection with photo documentation, then walks you through next steps based on what we find.
What if my roof looks fine from the street?
Hail damage often can’t be confirmed from the ground. Bruising and mat fracture show up on close inspection of shingles, vents, flashing, and soft metals.