Hail damage to a roof: an inspection checklist
Learn what to record after hail and how to arrange a professional roof assessment safely.
Avoid self-inspection on the roof
Hail can leave surfaces slippery or weaken roofing materials. Do not climb a ladder or walk on a roof to look for damage. Use ground-level observations and photographs instead.
Record the event and visible conditions
Note the date of the hailstorm and photograph visible impacts to siding, windows, gutters, or vehicles from safe locations. These observations can help a professional understand the context, but they do not establish roof damage on their own.
- Keep weather reports or event dates with your property records.
- Photograph visible conditions without entering unsafe areas.
- Save estimates and communications in one place.
Compare written inspection details
Ask prospective roofers how their inspection is performed, whether photos are included, and what findings are included in the report. Get the scope and costs in writing before authorizing work.