Wind and hail property damage: what to document

Practical, safety-first ways to record storm damage and compare professionals after severe weather.

Do not climb onto a damaged roof

Stay clear of downed lines, unstable trees, damaged structures, and exposed electrical components. Follow emergency officials and use qualified help for unsafe areas.

Preserve what you can see safely

Photograph exterior and interior conditions from safe locations. Record when the storm occurred, visible openings, water entry, and temporary protection. Keep receipts and written scopes for emergency measures.

Compare scopes, not promises

Ask providers to explain what they inspected, what work is temporary versus permanent, what is excluded, and how changes are approved. Confirm current credentials and insurance directly. A contractor cannot promise an insurer's coverage decision.

Wind, hail, flood, and water damage can be treated differently by a policy. Review your policy and ask your insurer about the loss.

Source references

• National Weather Service — weather safety
• NAIC — consumer insurance resources

Explore related losses

• wind hail
• hurricane
• tornado
• tree impact

Educational information, not legal advice or a coverage determination.