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What to Do After a Hailstorm in Texas | Roof Damage, Claims & Checklist

by Miguel Caballero

What to Do After a Hailstorm in Texas: A Homeowner’s Checklist


Introduction: Hail Happens—Let’s Be Prepared

If you're reading this, chances are a hailstorm just passed through your area, and you're standing there wondering what to do next. First, take a deep breath. You’re not alone—and you’re in Texas, where hailstorms are part of life. I've seen the damage hail can do to homes, roofs, windows, and peace of mind. I’m Miguel Caballero, the proud owner of Caballero Contracting Texas, and my team and I have helped hundreds of families recover after the storm.

This guide is your personal post-hailstorm checklist. I’m going to walk you through how to assess damage safely, document everything properly, file insurance claims for hail damage, avoid contractor scams, and restore your home the right way.

Let’s dive in—Texan to Texan.


Section 1: First Things First – Safety Comes First

1.1 Stay Inside Until It’s Safe

After the storm, it’s tempting to run outside to check the damage. Don’t. Wait until you’re sure the storm has passed completely. Hail often comes in waves, and it’s not worth risking an injury for a quick peek.

1.2 Watch for Downed Power Lines or Broken Glass

If you see downed power lines, stay clear and call your utility provider immediately. Walk around your property cautiously—broken glass, sharp debris, or water leaks can be hidden hazards.


Section 2: Assessing Hail Damage from the Ground

 

2.1 Walk the Perimeter of Your Home

Grab your phone or camera and walk around your house. You're looking for obvious signs of roof damage from hail, dented gutters, cracked windows, torn window screens, or damage to your siding or fence.

Some key signs of hail damage include:

  • Shingles with dark spots or bruising

  • Dents in metal flashing or gutters

  • Missing granules in shingles

  • Cracked skylights or solar panels

  • Dents in garage doors or AC units

Take clear photos from different angles. Even if you don’t think it’s “that bad,” document everything. It’s crucial for insurance claims for hail damage.


Section 3: The Roof—The Heart of the Damage

3.1 Don’t Climb Up There Yourself

Leave the rooftop inspections to pros like me. Hail damage isn’t always obvious, especially from the ground. Some of the worst leaks I’ve seen started from bruised shingles that looked just fine to the untrained eye.

3.2 Schedule a Free Inspection with a Reputable Contractor

At Caballero Contracting Texas, we offer free roof inspections for homeowners after storms. We know exactly what to look for, from soft spots to missing granules to hidden leaks. We’ll never pressure you—just give you an honest, documented report you can use.


Section 4: Document Everything—Like a Texan Sherlock Holmes

4.1 Take Photos and Videos of:

  • Every area of visible damage

  • Your roof (have a pro do this safely)

  • Broken windows, siding, fencing, or exterior structures

  • Interior water spots or leaks

  • Damaged furniture or floors

4.2 Save the Date and Details

Write down the date and time of the storm, along with any weather alerts you received. These notes can support your Texas hailstorm recovery claim.

4.3 Keep Receipts

If you had to buy a tarp, pay for emergency repairs, or stay at a hotel because your roof was compromised, save every receipt. Your insurance may reimburse you.


Section 5: Filing Your Insurance Claim for Hail Damage

 

5.1 Contact Your Insurance Company ASAP

Most policies require you to report damage quickly—sometimes within 24-48 hours. Call your insurer, explain what happened, and let them know you’ve taken photos and will be getting an inspection.

5.2 Don’t Settle for the First Adjuster’s Word

We’ve helped plenty of homeowners get their claims re-evaluated. Sometimes, insurance adjusters miss damage or underestimate repairs. If your contractor’s report differs from the adjuster’s, you’re allowed to request a second inspection.

5.3 Get Your Own Estimate

Having a trustworthy contractor like Caballero Contracting Texas by your side ensures your estimate is accurate and fair. We’ll walk you through your policy and help you understand your deductible, coverage limits, and what to expect.


Section 6: Avoiding Contractor Scams in Texas

6.1 Watch Out for Storm Chasers

After a big hailstorm, out-of-town “contractors” roll into Texas neighborhoods offering fast, cheap fixes. Some take your deposit and disappear. Others do sloppy work and vanish before the problems start.

6.2 How to Spot a Scam:

  • No local address or phone number

  • Unmarked trucks

  • High-pressure tactics

  • Asking for payment upfront

  • No license or proof of insurance

6.3 Why Choose Caballero Contracting Texas

We’re local, insured, and rooted in the community. We don’t leave after the storm—we stick around to make sure your home is back to pre-storm condition or better.

We also:

  • Handle insurance coordination

  • Offer warranties on all work

  • Use quality materials

  • Provide transparent estimates


Section 7: Your Post-Storm Checklist (Printable Format)

Here’s a quick-reference checklist you can print, bookmark, or share with a neighbor.


✅ After the Storm: Immediate Steps

  • Stay indoors until the storm fully passes

  • Check for hazards like broken glass or power lines

  • Take photos and videos of visible damage

  • Write down the storm’s date/time and any alerts

  • Save all receipts and documentation


✅ Exterior & Roof Assessment

  • Walk your property’s perimeter

  • Look for hail dents, bruised shingles, cracked windows

  • Schedule a professional roof inspection

  • Get a written report from a local contractor

 


✅ Insurance Process

  • File a claim with your insurance company

  • Share all documentation and inspection reports

  • Request a second opinion if the adjuster’s estimate seems low

  • Save all communication with your insurance provider


✅ Choosing the Right Contractor

  • Avoid out-of-town or high-pressure contractors

  • Ask for license, insurance, and local references

  • Never pay everything upfront

  • Trust local, reputable companies like Caballero Contracting


Section 8: Why This Matters—Protecting Your Biggest Investment

For most of us Texans, our home is our greatest investment—financially and emotionally. It’s where we raise our families, build memories, and find comfort. Don’t let a hailstorm take that away from you. With the right steps and the right help, your home can be made whole again.


Section 9: Common Questions from Texas Homeowners

Q: What if I don’t see any leaks—should I still get an inspection?

A: Yes. Hail can cause structural damage you won’t see until months later. A professional inspection helps catch problems before they turn into costly repairs.

Q: Will my insurance premium go up if I file a hail damage claim?

A: Not necessarily. Hailstorms are considered “Acts of God” and usually don’t affect your rates. Talk to your insurer for details.

Q: How long do I have to file a claim after hail damage?

A: It depends on your policy, but many insurers require you to report damage within 1 year—sometimes as little as 30 days. Don’t wait.


Conclusion: We’re Texans—We Rebuild Stronger

I started Caballero Contracting Texas because I wanted to serve this community with integrity. After every storm, I’ve seen how neighbors help neighbors, how we rebuild, and how we come back stronger. If you’ve been hit by a hailstorm, we’re here for you.

Call us for a free inspection. No pressure. Just real help when you need it most.

Stay strong,
Miguel Caballero
Owner, Caballero Contracting Texas
📞 [469-714-8198]
🌐 [www.CaballeroContractingTexas.com]
📍 Proudly serving Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio & all of Central Texas

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