Hail / Wind: Check Your Home for Signs of Permanent Damage

Advice From Marc Lancaric - Public Adjuster & President of Global Patriot Adjuster, LLC.

  • When high winds, tornadoes, or hail hit your home, it’s smart to check for signs of permanent damage. Look for these six signs of wind-related trouble:
    • New cracks in walls, especially walls near windows and doors. Cracks larger than a quarter-inch or more are a sign walls may have shifted or settled.Exterior foundation cracks or changes in the levelness indicate foundation issues have arisen.
    • Plumbing problems like leaks around the water heater or water softener.
    • Flush your toilets and turn on all your water faucets, then check your pipes for leaks.
    • Water stains or yellowing on your ceilings over the next few weeks — clues that the roof was damaged.
    • Gutters that have pulled away or are no longer sloped correctly. If you home was hit by hail:
    • Check patio covers, screens, windows, and soft aluminum roofs for damage.
  • Examine roof shingles (use binoculars if you can’t safely climb a ladder) for holes or dents.
  • Go over vehicles looking for dents and broken or cracked glass. If you find hail or wind damage:
    • Cover any broken windows and holes in your roof, as well as any broken glass on the car, to prevent further damage.
    • Report your insurance claim as soon as possible; no matter what the level of damage.
    • Take pictures before you make any temporary repairs.
    • Keep receipts for any temporary repairs you have to make because your home owners policy may cover those costs.
    • Do a reference check on any contractor you hire to repair your home. Fraudsters working home repair scams typically follow the path of storms.

Call us for a free no obligation consultation or for advice on how to proceed: 800-654-3041.