What to Do After a Hailstorm: A Homeowner’s Guide to Insurance Claims
Between spring and monsoon season, the Albuquerque metro typically sees 6 to 8 significant hail events a year. If your roof just took a hit, what you do in the next few days can make a real difference in both the condition of your home and how smoothly your insurance claim goes.
1. Document Before You Touch Anything
Take photos and video of visible damage from the ground — dented gutters, downspouts, siding, and any debris in the yard are often the easiest evidence to capture safely without getting on the roof yourself.
2. Get a Professional Inspection Quickly
Hail damage is not always visible from the ground. Bruised or fractured shingles can look fine until they start leaking months later. A prompt inspection creates a paper trail that supports your claim and catches damage before it worsens.
3. Understand the NM Attorney General’s Storm Chaser Warnings
After every major hailstorm, out-of-state crews flood the Albuquerque market going door to door. The New Mexico Attorney General has issued specific warnings about these storm chaser scams. Verify any contractor’s NM GB-2 license before signing anything or handing over a deposit.
4. Filing the Claim
Contact your insurance company to open a claim, and ask your roofing contractor to provide a written estimate and be present when the adjuster inspects the roof if possible. A local contractor who documents damage thoroughly and can speak the adjuster’s language typically leads to a fairer settlement.
5. We Can Help With the Whole Process
Our insurance claims assistance service covers documentation, adjuster meetings, and detailed estimates, and our storm damage and hail repair team can get temporary protection in place the same day if needed.
