What To Do After a Hail Storm

A step-by-step guide for Colorado homeowners and auto owners — from the moment the storm passes to the day your claim is closed.

Important: Most Colorado homeowner policies require you to report storm damage within a reasonable time — typically 30 to 60 days. Do not wait. Document damage now even if you are not sure you will file a claim.

Step 1 — Immediately After the Storm (First 24 Hours)

1

Stay safe first. Do not go on the roof while it is wet or while lightning is still in the area. Wait for the storm to fully pass.
2

Do a quick visual inspection from the ground. Look for obvious damage: dented gutters, broken windows, damaged siding, or debris on the roof. Note the time and date of the storm.
3

Photograph and video everything. Use your phone to document all visible damage before anything is cleaned up or repaired. Include wide shots and close-ups. Photograph hailstones next to a ruler or coin for size reference.
4

Protect against further damage. If there are broken windows or holes in the roof, cover them with tarps or plywood. Keep receipts — temporary repairs are typically reimbursable.
5

Call your insurance agent. Contact RightQuote at (719) 591-2036 or your carrier directly. We can help you decide whether to file and walk you through the process.

Step 2 — Documentation Checklist

Gather as much of this as possible before your adjuster visit.

Date, time, and approximate duration of the storm
Photos and video of all exterior damage (roof, gutters, siding, windows, AC unit, fencing)
Photos of hailstones with size reference (coin, ruler)
Photos of interior damage if any (water intrusion, ceiling stains)
Receipts for any emergency / temporary repairs
Your insurance policy number and carrier contact info
A written list of damaged personal property (for contents claims)
Estimates from at least two licensed contractors
Weather service records confirming the storm (weather.gov or Tomorrow.io)

Step 3 — Do's and Don'ts

DO

File promptly — do not wait weeks
Get multiple contractor estimates
Ask your adjuster to explain every line item
Request a re-inspection if you disagree
Keep copies of all correspondence
Ask about Replacement Cost vs. ACV
Check your deductible before deciding to file

DON'T

Sign anything from a storm chaser contractor before talking to your agent
Let a contractor file the claim on your behalf
Make permanent repairs before the adjuster visits
Accept a settlement without reviewing it
Assume your claim will raise your rates (it may not)
Ignore small damage — it can worsen over time

Hail Size Reference — What It Means for Your Property

Size	Comparison	Typical Damage	Severity
¼" – ½"	Pea to marble	Minimal; may dent soft metals (gutters, AC fins)	Minor
¾"	Penny	Dented gutters, possible soft-metal siding damage; NWS "severe" threshold	Watch
1"	Quarter	Roof shingle bruising, cracked skylights, vehicle dents	Moderate
1¼"	Half dollar	Significant shingle damage, broken windows, vehicle body damage	Significant
1½" – 2"	Ping pong to egg	Severe roof damage, broken windows, major vehicle damage	Severe
2"+"	Baseball and larger	Structural damage, total roof replacement likely, vehicle totals	Extreme

Key Contacts

Your Agent

RightQuote

(719) 591-2036
info@rqthatswho.com

Storm Reports

weather.gov

Local storm reports & NWS warnings

CO Division of Insurance

(303) 894-7499

File a complaint or get help with a denied claim