What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Kansas Hailstorm
The first day after a hailstorm matters more than most people realize. Here's what to do, and what to avoid.
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Free inspection, written report, no sales pitch. We cover Johnson, Douglas, Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties.
A big hailstorm just rolled through. The yard looks like a golf driving range and you're staring up at your roof wondering how bad it is. We get calls like this every spring, and the biggest mistake people make is either panicking or ignoring it. Here's the right move, step by step.
Right away: document everything
Grab your phone and photograph visible damage to your own property from a safe location. Include the hail on the ground and exterior damage. Also capture any interior leaks. Save the date and approximate time of the storm. Do not get on a wet or damaged roof.
Keep the photos with your policy information and any receipts for temporary protection. Your insurer can tell you what documentation it needs for its assessment.
Visible roof patterns after a storm
Possible impact pattern
- Scattered marks
- Localized granule loss
- Soft spots or bruising
- Exposed mat at some marks
Possible age-related pattern
- Broad changes across a slope
- Gradual granule thinning
- Firm surface between marks
- Blisters or raised areas
Report the damage to your insurer
The Kansas Department of Insurance advises homeowners to report loss or damage to their insurer as soon as possible. Follow the notice instructions in your policy and ask the insurer to explain the next steps, including its inspection process.
Get an inspection, but watch out for storm chasers
Within a day or two of a big hailstorm, unfamiliar roofing crews may start knocking on doors. Be cautious when someone makes coverage promises before reading your policy or pressures you to sign immediately. Verify the company's local presence and written construction terms before agreeing to work.
Use a local roofer. Someone with a real address, real reviews, and a reason to care about their reputation in the community. We've been doing this in the KC metro for years and we're not going anywhere. When we do an inspection, we give you a detailed report you can use with your insurance company, whether you hire us or not.
What not to do
The Kansas Department of Insurance recommends protecting the property from further damage and keeping receipts for temporary repairs. Ask the insurer before permanent repairs begin, and do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof.
MCO can inspect the roof, photograph visible conditions, provide a written estimate and answer construction-scope questions. Your insurer controls its inspection, coverage decision and settlement. Call MCO at (913) 954-4501 to schedule a roof inspection.
Questions we get asked
Sources
Primary references used for the specific claims identified in this guide.
- Filing a Home Insurance Claim
Kansas Department of Insurance
Explains prompt loss reporting, damage photographs, temporary protection, policy review and the separate roles of the insurer and a contractor's estimate.
Want a straight answer about your own roof?
Free inspection, written report, no sales pitch. We cover Johnson, Douglas, Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties.
