Hail Just Hit Your Roof—Here's What You Need to Do Next
Hailstorms can hit fast and leave serious damage behind. Homeowners in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia know how unpredictable Southern weather can be, especially in spring and summer when hailstorms roll through. From Greenville to Charleston, Charlotte to Savannah, hail damage is a common issue that can lead to leaks, structural problems, and expensive repairs if ignored.
If your roof has been hit by hail, taking the right steps immediately can help prevent further damage and ensure your insurance covers the repairs. Here's what you need to do.
Step 1: Check for Signs of Hail Damage
Not all hail damage is obvious. Even small dents in shingles can weaken your roof over time. After a hailstorm, walk around your home and look for these signs:
- Dented or bruised shingles – Hail can knock off the protective granules, leaving dark spots.
- Missing or cracked shingles – High winds and hail impact can tear shingles off.
- Leaks in your ceiling or attic – Water stains or damp insulation mean your roof has been compromised.
- Dented gutters and downspouts – If hail damaged your gutters, your roof likely took a hit too.
- Damaged siding, windows, or A/C units – If hail dented your siding or outdoor units, check your roof as well.
If you're unsure about damage, don't climb onto the roof yourself. It's easy to miss small dents that a trained professional will catch.
Step 2: Document the Damage
Before making repairs, take clear photos and videos of the hail damage. Capture:
- Close-up shots of bruised or missing shingles
- Dents in gutters, siding, and outdoor A/C units
- Any visible water leaks inside your home
This documentation is crucial for insurance claims and will help you get the coverage you deserve.
Step 3: Call a Professional Roofing Inspector
Some hail damage is hard to spot, and hidden roof problems can lead to expensive leaks down the road. A professional roofer will:
- Assess the full extent of the damage
- Provide a detailed inspection report for your insurance claim
- Recommend whether a repair or full replacement is needed
If a major storm just passed through your area, don't wait. Roofing companies in Atlanta, Raleigh, Columbia, and Savannah get flooded with calls after severe weather, so schedule your inspection fast.
Step 4: Contact Your Homeowners Insurance Provider
Most homeowners insurance policies cover hail damage, but filing a claim correctly is key to getting full coverage.
- Call your insurance company and report the hailstorm that caused the damage.
- Provide the photos and roofing inspection report as evidence.
- Schedule an adjuster visit so they can inspect the damage themselves.
Working with a roofer who has insurance claim experience can help you get the most out of your policy. MTM Roofing Systems specializes in handling insurance claims, making sure you don't get underpaid or denied for necessary repairs.
Step 5: Get Your Roof Repaired or Replaced Quickly
Hail damage may start as a minor issue, but over time, it can lead to:
- Leaks that cause mold and rot
- Higher energy bills from lost insulation
- Structural issues if water seeps into the decking
If your roof is over 15 years old or suffered significant hail damage, a full replacement might be the best option. New roofs in storm-prone areas like Wilmington, Augusta, and Charleston are built with impact-resistant materials that hold up better against future hailstorms.
Major Hailstorms That Have Hit the Southeast
Hail damage is not uncommon in the South. In recent years, major storms have caused millions in roof damage:
- April 2021 – A massive hailstorm in Greensboro, NC, caused widespread roof damage across the Triad.
- June 2022 – A storm in Columbia, SC, produced hailstones as large as golf balls, leading to thousands of insurance claims.
- March 2023 – Severe hailstorms in Atlanta, GA, resulted in over $400 million in roof damage across the metro area.
If your home was in the path of a recent hailstorm, you may qualify for an insurance-covered roof replacement.
Schedule a Free Roof Inspection Today
If your home was hit by hail, don't wait until leaks appear. MTM Roofing Systems provides fast, reliable hail damage inspections, insurance claim assistance, and expert repairs in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.