What to Do After a Tulsa Hailstorm: Your 5-Step Roofing Action Plan

Hailstorm just hit Tulsa? Here’s what you need to do now to protect your home and avoid costly repairs.

1. Ensure Safety First: Check for hazards like broken windows, downed power lines, or gas leaks. Avoid climbing on the roof – leave inspections to professionals.
2. Document All Damage: Take clear photos of your roof, gutters, windows, and outdoor areas. Measure hailstones (use a ruler) and log all damages.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company: File your claim quickly and provide detailed documentation. Understand your policy’s coverage and deductibles.
4. Get a Professional Roof Inspection: Hire certified roofers to identify hidden damage and assist with your insurance claim.
5. Consider Hail-Resistant Roofing: Invest in durable materials like Class 4 impact-resistant shingles to better protect your home in the future.

Quick Tip: Acting fast after a storm is critical to avoid further damage. Call a professional roofing contractor for help with inspections and repairs.

Roof Inspections After A Massive Hail Storm For Insurance Claims

Step 1: Keep Your Family and Property Safe

After a hailstorm, your top priority should be ensuring the safety of your loved ones and securing your property. Before you even think about assessing damage or contacting your insurance company, focus on addressing any immediate dangers that could risk your family’s well-being.

Check for Dangerous Conditions

Start by inspecting your property for hazards like broken windows, fallen branches, flooded areas, downed power lines, or structural damage. Steer clear of downed power lines or anything in contact with them, and report these dangers to both the police and your utility company.

Gas leaks are another serious concern. If you detect the smell of gas, turn off the gas supply, open windows, and evacuate the area immediately. Notify your gas company, local police, or fire department to handle the situation.

It’s worth noting that a study on tornado-related injuries in Marion, Illinois, found that 50% of injuries occurred during cleanup, rescue efforts, and other post-storm activities. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of those injuries were caused by stepping on nails.

If you’re inspecting your home in low light, use a flashlight instead of candles or torches. Gas leaks or fire hazards could turn open flames into a serious threat. Be vigilant for signs like frayed wiring, sparks, or the smell of something burning. If you notice any of these, shut off your home’s electrical system at the main circuit breaker.

Once you’ve addressed these immediate risks, avoid taking unnecessary chances, like climbing onto your roof.

Stay Off Your Roof

Even if your roof looks fine from the ground, resist the urge to climb up for a closer look. Hail can cause damage that isn’t immediately visible, leaving the roof weakened and unsafe to walk on. What might seem like a solid surface could give way under your weight.

Professional roofers are equipped with the right tools, training, and experience to safely inspect storm-damaged roofs. They know how to identify weak spots and navigate damaged areas without endangering themselves or causing further harm to your property. Even for experts, wet and slippery surfaces or damaged shingles can add extra risks after a storm. This is a job best left to professionals.

Stop Water Damage Right Away

Once you’ve ensured overall safety, shift your focus to preventing water damage. Quick action can help minimize further destruction.

Cover damaged areas with tarps until permanent repairs can be made. Make sure the tarps are securely fastened to withstand future wind. For broken windows, board them up to keep water out. Use sealants to temporarily patch minor cracks in siding or roofing materials.

Inside your home, place buckets under leaks to catch dripping water and drain any bulging areas to avoid further structural issues.

Be cautious around floodwater – it can be contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, sharp debris, or even dangerous animals. If you need to work near floodwater, wear a life jacket if the water levels are rising, and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water afterward. If soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer.

Lastly, never use wet electrical devices. If an appliance gets wet while plugged in, turn off power at the main breaker and wait for an electrician to inspect it before attempting to use it again.

Step 2: Record All Storm Damage

Once your family is safe and immediate water damage has been addressed, the next step is to document all the hailstorm damage. This step is essential for your insurance claim and ensures no damage goes unnoticed during repairs. Taking the time to record everything now will make conversations with your insurance company and roofing professionals much smoother later.

Take Photos of All Damage

Begin taking photos as soon as it’s safe to do so. Capture detailed images before making any temporary repairs or changes to your property. Focus on key areas like your roof, gutters, windows, siding, air conditioning units, decks, porches, fences, landscaping, and outdoor furniture. For the roof, look for missing, cracked, or dented shingles, as well as exposed underlayment or roof decking. If you have access to a drone or can safely take aerial shots, use them to highlight concentrated damage areas.

Inspect windows for cracks, broken seals, or frame issues. Check your siding for dents, chipped paint, or punctures – especially if it’s aluminum or vinyl. Also, photograph your air conditioning unit from multiple angles, noting any visible damage.

Take clear, well-lit pictures from various angles, and include a reference for scale, like a ruler or coin, to show the size of the damage. Label each photo with detailed descriptions, and make sure to document serial numbers for major appliances and high-value items. This thorough documentation can be incredibly helpful. For example, in 2022, hail damage claims in Texas reached $510 million in payouts, underscoring the importance of accurate records.

Collect and Measure Hailstones

The size of hailstones plays a big role in the damage they cause, so measuring them is an important part of your insurance assessment. Since hail melts quickly, act fast. Measure the diameter at the widest point using a ruler, measuring tape, or digital caliper. Measure several hailstones to get an average size and photograph each one next to your measuring tool for reference.

If you can’t measure them immediately, store the hailstones in a sealed bag in your freezer.

Understanding hail sizes can also help you assess the extent of the damage. Meteorologists often compare hail sizes to everyday objects, as shown below:

Documenting hail sizes can also help identify which building materials may have been impacted and distinguish this storm’s damage from previous weather events. Combine these measurements with written notes to create a comprehensive damage report.

Make a Complete Damage List

While photos are great for visual evidence, a written damage log ensures you don’t miss anything during repairs or insurance discussions. Create a detailed list describing each damaged item and any immediate actions you took.

Start with your roof, then work your way around the property. Include descriptions, photos, and measurements for all exterior areas. Don’t forget landscaping – take wide shots of your yard and close-ups of damaged trees, plants, or garden structures.

Include the date, time, and serial numbers for each damaged item in your log. Look for spatter marks on surfaces, as these can indicate the size and direction of the hail, providing further proof of the storm’s severity. This organized approach ensures your insurance claim reflects all the damage and speeds up the repair process.

Step 3: Call Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve documented the damage, it’s time to move on to filing your insurance claim. Starting this process quickly is important – delays can complicate or even jeopardize your claim. Most insurance providers expect prompt notification, so don’t wait too long.

Check Your Insurance Policy

Before reaching out to your insurer, take a close look at your policy to understand what’s covered and what isn’t.

For example, wind and hail damage often come with higher deductibles than standard claims. While your typical deductible might be $1,000, wind and hail deductibles could climb to $2,500 or even be calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value.

Pay attention to how your policy handles cosmetic versus functional damage. Some policies exclude purely cosmetic issues, meaning they’ll only cover repairs if the damage affects your roof’s ability to protect your home. This distinction could significantly impact your payout.

Also, check whether your policy offers Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV). RCV covers the cost of replacing damaged items with new ones, while ACV accounts for depreciation, which can result in a smaller payout, especially for older roofing materials.

File Your Claim Fast

Once you’ve reviewed your policy, report the damage to your insurance company. Most insurers allow claims to be filed online, through mobile apps, or over the phone, often with 24/7 availability. Acting quickly ensures you avoid unnecessary delays.

"Your insurance provider will be a great resource of information when filing any type of claim", says Asya Biddle, Angi Expert Review Board member and manager of The Dust Busters janitorial company.

When filing, provide detailed information, including the date and time of the storm, along with any emergency repairs you’ve made. Be sure to include all your documentation – photos, damage lists, and any relevant weather reports. Ask for your claim number and the name of your assigned adjuster for future reference.

Keep a detailed log of every interaction with your insurer. Write down names, dates, and summaries of conversations. These records can be invaluable if disputes arise later.

Timing is critical. For instance, in Texas, you generally have two years from the storm date to file a hail damage claim, but your specific policy might have stricter deadlines.

Set Up an Adjuster Visit

Once your claim is filed, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to inspect the damage. This step is crucial, as the adjuster’s assessment determines how much your insurer will cover for repairs.

Schedule the adjuster’s visit as soon as possible, and come prepared. Print your photos, damage list, and any weather reports to back up your claim. It’s also a good idea to have a trusted local contractor present during the inspection. They can point out damage that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Before the adjuster arrives, walk through your property again to ensure you remember all the damage locations. Be ready to show everything you’ve documented, from visible roof issues to less obvious problems like damaged gutters or HVAC units.

If the adjuster’s estimate seems too low, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. You have the right to understand their calculations and can provide additional evidence if you believe anything has been missed or undervalued.

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Step 4: Get a Professional Roof Inspection

While your insurance adjuster reviews your claim, bringing in a professional for a roof inspection can uncover damage that might otherwise go unnoticed. A skilled roofing contractor can identify issues and provide the expertise needed to ensure your roof is repaired correctly.

Pick a Certified Roofing Contractor

When choosing a roofing contractor, focus on those experienced in assessing storm damage. Start by checking their licenses and insurance. A trustworthy contractor will carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance and have the proper authorization from local or state authorities. Don’t be shy about asking for proof – your safety and home’s value depend on it.

Look for contractors with manufacturer accreditations, which often reflect their quality and expertise. For instance, GAF Master Elite contractors represent a small percentage of roofing companies nationwide and can offer exclusive warranties like the Golden Pledge Limited Warranty. Similarly, Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors are among the top tier and are the only ones authorized to provide the Owens Corning Platinum Protection System Roofing Limited Warranty.

For storm damage specifically, consider contractors with Haag Certified Inspector (HCI) certification. As Haag Education explains, “In the roofing and insurance industries, the phrase ‘Haag Certified’ carries a lot of weight. It indicates that you can effectively and efficiently inspect and assess damage”.

Also, confirm that your contractor is trained in Xactimate software – the same program used by most insurance companies for damage estimates. This ensures accurate assessments. Check online reviews (Google Reviews is a reliable source) and look for an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau as additional signs of credibility.

"To be a reputable and successful roofer, several credentials are essential. Each credential serves a unique purpose, contributing to professionalism, trustworthiness, and competence in the roofing industry."
– Roofing Force

Ask for a Full Inspection Report

Schedule the inspection within 48–72 hours after the storm to document the damage before weather conditions change. The inspector should provide a detailed written report, complete with high-quality photos, explanations of the damage, and clear repair recommendations. This report is essential for your insurance claim and helps ensure no damage is overlooked.

A thorough inspection covers multiple areas. For asphalt shingles, inspectors look for black-colored hits, granule loss, shiny exposed asphalt, and soft spots that indicate impact damage. For wood shingles, they check for splits with sharp edges, minimal wear around the damage, and distinct impact marks.

Beyond shingles, the inspection should include an assessment of the roof deck for structural issues, checks for underlayment damage, and an evaluation of sealant wear around vents and skylights. Flashing around chimneys and vent stacks, which is especially vulnerable to hail, should also be examined closely. For commercial properties, advanced techniques like moisture scans or infrared inspections may be used to detect hidden water intrusion.

Make sure the inspection report is thorough and well-documented.

Work with Insurance-Experienced Roofers

Navigating insurance claims after storm damage can be overwhelming. Hiring a roofer with extensive insurance claim experience can make the process much smoother.

"However, hiring a roofing company with insurance claim experience makes things much easier."
– Bill Ragan Roofing

Experienced roofers understand how insurance companies operate, from payout structures to the required documentation. They can identify damage that adjusters might miss and back it up with detailed photos and measurements. They also advocate on your behalf, helping you secure fair compensation. Many of these contractors use the same estimating software as insurance companies, which minimizes pricing discrepancies and speeds up approvals. They also know how to request additional coverage if the initial estimate falls short.

"When you hire a roofer who understands storm insurance, you’re hiring someone who can explain every step and help you avoid the pitfalls that lead to denied or underpaid claims."
– Precision Roofing

Most importantly, these roofers know how to follow the scope of work provided by your insurance company, ensuring the repairs align with the approved estimate. This attention to detail reduces the chances of delays, disputes, or unexpected expenses. With their expertise, you’ll benefit from clear documentation, smooth claims processing, and a properly restored roof.

Once you have your inspection report, you can start exploring advanced, hail-resistant roofing options.

Step 5: Consider Hail-Resistant Roofing Materials

In Tulsa, where hailstorms are a common threat, many homeowners look for durable solutions to protect their homes. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there were 6,962 significant hail events across the U.S. in 2023. Opting for hail-resistant roofing materials not only safeguards your home but could also lower your insurance premiums and energy bills. Here’s a closer look at materials and features that can help fortify your roof against future storms.

Impact-Resistant Shingles: A Smart Choice

When it comes to hail protection, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are the top-tier option. These shingles are specifically designed to withstand the impact of a 2-inch steel ball, making them far more durable than standard shingles. In hailstorms where stones can hit your roof at speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour, this added durability becomes a game-changer.

The benefits don’t stop at storm protection. Class 4 shingles also reduce the need for frequent repairs, extend the life of your roof, and handle winds up to 130 mph – well above the 110 mph threshold for standard shingles. On top of that, many insurance companies offer discounts of up to 33% for homes equipped with these materials.

This is especially relevant for Oklahoma homeowners, where roofs in hail-prone areas often need replacement every 7 to 10 years. Starting in early 2025, the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Act will provide grants to help cover the cost of hail-resistant roofs, including Class 4 shingles. This program, running through November 2027, could also help you qualify for insurance discounts as high as 42%.

"I’m looking forward to helping Oklahomans make their homes more resilient to disasters and bringing some relief amid rising prices through this pivotal new program launching next year", said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready.

Energy Efficiency Matters Too

Hail-resistant roofing materials often come with energy-saving advantages. For example, metal roofs can reduce energy costs by up to 25% while providing excellent hail resistance. These roofs reflect sunlight more effectively, keeping your home cooler during Tulsa’s sweltering summers.

Choosing lighter-colored materials can further enhance energy efficiency by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat absorption. While impact-resistant shingles may cost 50% to 100% more upfront than standard shingles, the long-term savings from lower energy bills, reduced repair costs, and potential insurance discounts can make the investment worthwhile.

Compare Warranties and Material Options

Understanding warranties and material options is key to making an informed decision. Here’s a quick comparison of popular roofing materials:

Metal roofing stands out for its longevity, lasting 40 to 70 years compared to the 15 to 25 years of standard asphalt shingles. While the initial cost is higher, the reduced need for maintenance and longer replacement intervals often make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

The Importance of Proper Installation

Regardless of the material you choose, proper installation is critical to maximizing hail protection. Always work with certified contractors who are familiar with manufacturer guidelines and local building codes. Many roofing companies also offer extended warranties when you use their recommended materials and installation methods.

"With impact-resistant roofing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your roof looks great and is designed to protect your home and possessions", notes CertainTeed.

As Oklahoma’s oldest GAF Master Elite® Roofing Contractor, Arrowhead Roofing specializes in helping Tulsa homeowners choose the best hail-resistant options for their needs. Our team understands the area’s challenging weather and can recommend materials that balance durability, energy efficiency, and long-term value. With expert installation, your investment will stand strong against Tulsa’s toughest storms.

Conclusion: Get Expert Help to Protect Your Home

Taking swift action after a hailstorm is essential to safeguard your home and family. By following these five steps and enlisting professional help, you can address hail damage effectively, ensuring your property’s value is preserved and that you receive the necessary insurance coverage for repairs. Proper documentation and thorough inspections lay the groundwork, but expert guidance is what truly streamlines the recovery process.

Once safety measures and initial documentation are in place, the focus shifts to restoring your home with the help of local professionals. Partnering with a trusted roofing contractor in your area can make all the difference. Local experts understand Tulsa’s unique weather conditions and building codes, enabling them to identify storm damage accurately – even the subtle issues that others might miss. Their detailed assessments and documentation are invaluable for filing successful insurance claims.

Beyond just repairs, safety remains a top priority. Professional roofers have the tools and experience to inspect damaged rooftops safely, minimizing injury risks while uncovering structural problems that may go unnoticed by untrained eyes. Their evaluations and cost estimates are often trusted by insurance adjusters, which can lead to quicker claim approvals and fair compensation for repairs.

When it comes to storm recovery, Arrowhead Roofing stands out with decades of proven expertise. As Oklahoma’s oldest GAF Master Elite® Roofing Contractor, they bring nearly 40 years of experience to Tulsa homeowners. After securing your home and documenting the damage, their team ensures a seamless restoration process. Offering free roof inspections within 24 hours, they provide prompt evaluations and assist with everything from damage assessments to working directly with your insurance company.

Don’t let minor damage turn into a major problem. Call Arrowhead Roofing at (918) 743-9257 or visit their website to schedule a free inspection. With their expert support, you can restore your roof’s integrity and gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home and family are well-protected.

FAQs

How can I check for hidden roof damage after a hailstorm, and why should I hire a professional inspector?

After a hailstorm, your roof might have damage that’s not easy to spot right away. From the ground, keep an eye out for missing or cracked shingles, granule buildup in gutters, or dents in gutters and downspouts. But some issues, like tiny cracks or weakened flashing, are harder to see and require a closer look. Acting quickly is key because even small problems can turn into bigger headaches like leaks, mold growth, or structural damage if ignored.

Bringing in a professional for a roof inspection is the safest way to catch hidden damage. Experts have the tools and know-how to find things you might miss, such as bruised shingles or areas where the roof’s integrity is compromised. Plus, a professional inspection can provide accurate documentation for insurance claims, helping you avoid surprise repair bills down the line.

What details should I document after a hailstorm for my insurance claim?

After a hailstorm, it’s important to document the damage thoroughly to ensure a smoother insurance claim process. Start by recording the date and time of the storm to establish a clear timeline. Capture photos and videos of the damage, paying close attention to your roof, siding, windows, and any other impacted areas. For added context, include a common object like a coin in the photos to show the size of the hailstones.

Create a detailed written account describing the damage, specifying the affected areas and the severity of the impact. Save local weather reports that confirm the storm occurred and keep all communication records with your insurance company. Lastly, collect repair estimates from reliable local contractors to back up your claim. Taking these steps can make the insurance process much more straightforward.

Can I save money or get insurance benefits by upgrading to hail-resistant roofing in Tulsa?

Upgrading to hail-resistant roofing in Tulsa can bring financial perks and insurance discounts. Starting in 2025, homeowners might be eligible for grants that cover 10–15% of the installation costs for hail-resistant roofs. On top of that, many insurance providers reward homeowners with discounts for using impact-resistant materials, potentially saving up to 42% on premiums. For instance, roofs with a Class 4 impact-resistant rating often receive average discounts of about 26%.

Choosing hail-resistant roofing not only shields your home from harsh weather but also offers long-term savings through fewer repairs and lower insurance costs.

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