Hail Damage in Philadelphia PA Area

The Philadelphia area has had several hail storms this year.

Roof hail damage is not always obvious, especially when looking up from the ground. Damage to roof vents and gutters is easy to spot by looking for dents and dings. Shingle damage shows up as random light or dark spots across the expanse of the roof where the hail has impacted and knocked loose the granules covering the shingle, exposing the asphalt layer.

If you think you've got shingle damage from hail, use this checklist as a guide while walking around your house. If you think you've got wind damage, see the wind damage checklist.

Hail Storms Philadelphia PA area (January-October 2010)

(Source: www.storm-finder.com)

(07/25/10) Hail Damage - Chester County
(06/24/10) Hail Damage - Philadelphia
(05/27/10) Hail Damage - Pottstown, South Pottstown


Hail Damage Checklist

• First of all, don't climb on the roof. Leave that to a professional.
• Look for obvious signs of torn, curled or blown-off shingles, dented vents, dented gutters, skylights, etc.
• Are there any tears in your window screens?
• Cracks in the windows, or visible damage to caulking or beading around the windowpanes?
• Check your HVAC unit for damage: dents/dimples to exterior casing, fins, etc.
• Is there any broken glass inside the house? Make a note of where it is located.
• Is there any damage to lawn furniture or outside decorations?
• Any damage to porch screens, hot tub covers, etc.?
• Inspect fences, swing-sets, decks and patios for marks, dents or scuff marks.
• Do you have outside lights? Do they still work?
• Check swimming pool for floating debris or other damage. Did you have to clean out the pool?
• Check trees for broken limbs and/or fallen limbs.
• Did you lose your electricity? Did you have food spoilage?
• Look for water stains on the ceiling, particularly in corners, around light fixtures, and around the chimney.
• Check the attic for water seepage or wet insulation.

Schedule a Roof Estimate

• An experienced roofer with a trained eye can identify hail damage that you might have missed.
• Schedule a time when you can be there for the inspection.
• Ask for feedback about the claims process; share any notes you made during your initial walk-around.
• Get a detailed, written estimate for everything. We provide free estimates with no sales pressure.
• Ask for proof of licensing and liability insurance.
• Verify the name and address of the business.
• Ask for references.

File Your Insurance Claim

• See the page on roof insurance claims for additional information.
• Call your insurance company to report the claim.
• Explain all aspects of the damage by referring to your notes.
• If other homes in your neighborhood are already having roof work done, be sure to mention that.
• Keep detailed notes of whom you talk to, including dates and times and summaries of conversations.
• If possible, ask that the insurance company rep and roofing contractor be there at the same time.
• Let the insurance adjuster and the roofing contractor discuss the claim together.
• If some or all of your claim is denied, you may be able to appeal. Ask your roofer if he can assist.
• If your claim is accepted, clarify when you will receive payment.
• Some insurance companies do not release full payment until all repairs are complete.
• If you have a mortgage, the check might be written jointly to you and your mortgage company.
• Check with your mortgage company to see whether additional paperwork is needed on their end.

When It's Time For The Roof To Be Replaced

• Clear the driveway for materials delivery.
• Discuss with the contractor if and where any roofing trash containers will be placed during the job.
• Remove hanging pictures, and loose items from bookcases and shelves.
• Hammering and vibrations from the repair may damage these items if they are left in place.
• Make sure that the contractor has access to outside electricity for nail guns, air compressors, etc.
• If you have pets, be sure to keep them out of the way during the installation.

When The Job Is Complete

• Walk around to inspect the job. The on-site supervisor should do the walk-around with you.
• Make final payment.
• Request a copy of the manufacturer's warranty.
• Ask whether the company offers a workmanship warranty; if so, ask for a copy.
• Verify that mechanics liens have not been placed against your property.
• File all related paperwork in a safe place in case you need to refer back to it.

Photos of Hail Damage (click pictures to enlarge)