Hailstorms are the reason behind much of the property damage suffered by homeowners in America, leading to billions of dollars in home insurance claims each year. Hail can be as small as the tip of a ballpoint pen or as big as a softball, causing a wide array of home damages from a few broken shingles to uninhabitable destruction.
What can you do about hail? Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do during a hailstorm besides keep yourself and your family safe. Wherever you are, take shelter to avoid being pelted with hailstones, along with the strong winds and lightning that often accompany hailstorms. The best thing you can do is simply wait it out.
After the storm passes, inspect your home and car for signs of damage. If you notice damages, this is the time to call your agent and file a claim. While you wait for the claims adjuster, there are steps you can take to protect your property for further damage. Cover broken/cracked windows with boards or plastic sheeting. Clean up any broken glass both inside and outside of your home, as well as inside of your car. If it’s safe to do so, cover any holes in the roof with a tarp.
After the adjuster assesses the damage, hire a reputable contractor and/or auto mechanic to make the necessary repairs. Save all receipts associated with the hail damage so your insurance provider can reimburse you. Most standard homeowners insurance policies include hail damage coverage and your car is generally covered if you own comprehensive coverage.
Do your policies have this coverage? Call Ed Weeren Insurance Agency at 512.454.5266 for more information on Austin home insurance.