What to Do After Hail Damage in Texas

After a hail storm, do not climb onto your roof to inspect damage. Wet or damaged roofing surfaces are slippery and dangerous. Look for visible damage from the ground — dented gutters, broken windows, damaged siding — and note anything you can see safely.

Use your phone to take photos and video of all visible damage — roof (from ground), siding, gutters, downspouts, windows, window screens, AC/HVAC unit, vehicles, and any interior water damage. Timestamp your photos. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim.

If there is an active roof leak or broken windows, make temporary repairs to prevent further water intrusion — tarps over roof areas, plastic over broken windows. Keep all receipts for these emergency repairs. Many policies cover reasonable emergency repair costs.

File a claim with your insurance company promptly. Texas law generally requires claims to be filed within one year of the event. Have your policy number ready. Write down your claim number, the adjuster's name, and all communication dates.

An insurance adjuster will schedule an inspection. You can have your own contractor or inspector present. Make sure all damage documented in your photos is visible and accessible. Walk the adjuster through everything you documented.

Before agreeing to any settlement, get written repair estimates from licensed contractors. This helps you understand whether the insurance estimate is appropriate. You are not required to accept the first settlement offer.

Do not sign any repair contracts before your insurance claim is reviewed. Be cautious of contractors who offer to 'handle your insurance' or waive your deductible — this is illegal in Texas. Always verify a contractor's license through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.