Safe checklist after a hailstorm
Start with observations that can be made safely from ground level. Climbing onto a roof after a storm can be dangerous and is generally not recommended for homeowners.
- Walk around the property and look for dents in gutters, downspouts, or metal flashing.
- Check siding and window trim for chipped paint or small impact marks.
- Look for granules from asphalt shingles collecting near downspouts.
- Note any damaged outdoor equipment, fencing, or vehicles.
These signs can indicate that hail impacted the property, even when roof damage cannot be seen from the ground.
Document visible damage
Before sweeping debris or repairing anything, it can help to take clear photos of visible impact areas around the property.
- Photograph gutters, siding, and exterior walls.
- Capture wide-angle photos showing the general condition of the roof from the ground.
- Record the date of the storm and estimated hail size if reported locally.
This documentation can help establish when the storm occurred and what areas of the property may have been affected.
Avoid climbing onto the roof
After hailstorms, roofs may be wet, slippery, or structurally stressed. Attempting to climb onto the roof without proper safety equipment can lead to serious falls or injuries.
For this reason, homeowners are generally advised not to attempt their own roof inspections. Professional roof inspectors often use safety equipment, ladders, and sometimes drones to examine roof conditions more safely.
If damage is suspected, many homeowners choose to request a roof inspection rather than attempting to check the roof themselves.
When homeowners request inspections
In areas where hailstorms are common, roof inspections are often requested soon after major storm events. Even when damage is not obvious from the ground, an inspection can help determine whether the roof surface was affected.
If your neighborhood experienced significant hail activity, you may wish to request an inspection rather than attempting to evaluate the roof yourself.