In 2021 alone, it estimated that almost 7 million properties in the United States sustained one or more damaging hail events causing over $14 billion dollars in damages.
We can’t control mother nature
With spring storms on our doorstep there are several factors to consider that can potentially reduce your loss exposure.
Most property owners do not contemplate the effect hail can have on a building until after the storm has passed and left its mark.
The following are a few items to think about before and after these spring storms hit.
Before the Storm
Safely complete roof inspections on a regular basis
- Identify any weak areas/wear and tear that might need maintenance. These areas are more susceptible to damage from hail.
- Remove any debris that could be blown around or cause gutters and drains to clog.
Have a trusted roofing contractor vetted and available
- Having a relationship and/or service agreement in place with a contractor can get you to the front of the line for post-storm inspections, emergency repairs
, and claims processing.
- A roofing contractor is also a good ally for regular roof inspections.
Research and employ hail resistant materials and protections
- Impact-resistant glass (e.g., windows, doors, sunroofs) can reduce or eliminate damage caused by hail and lesson potential insurance claims.
- Equipment screens and guards can also help protect guttering and roof-top mechanical items such as HVAC units.
After the Storm
Safety first
- Confirm all employees are safe and accounted for.
- Complete a safe visual inspection to determine level of damage.
- If damage is located report a claim to your property insurance carrier as soon as possible.
- Safely make any temporary emergency repairs to mitigate further damage.
Let the contractor take it from here
- If you do not feel comfortable making temporary emergency repairs, contact your trusted contractor.
- Have your contractor complete a scope of damages and prepare an estimate to provide to the adjuster during their inspection.
- Ideally, have your contractor available to meet with the adjuster to discuss the scope of damages.
Plan now so you’re ready in the spring. And if you’d like to check that you have the right insurance coverage to cover such an event, advisors at The Miller Group are happy to provide a free assessment.
