Hail damage is extremely common in Colorado. In fact, Colorado ranked fourth nationally for homeowner’s insurance claims in 2017. One insurer alone paid $271 million in hail damage claims. Texas led the nation at $610 million, with Illinois and Minnesota also among the highest-claim states.

If your home has been damaged by hail, here are the steps you should take:

• Check your deductible. Review your policy details carefully. Many policies in Colorado, especially on the eastern plains, have separate roof deductibles that may be higher than your standard deductible.
• Contact your insurance company promptly. File your claim as soon as possible. If you have trouble with your claim, you can escalate to the Colorado Department of Insurance for assistance.
• Verify contractor licensing. Before hiring anyone for repairs, make sure the contractor is properly licensed in your county. This protects you from substandard work and potential liability.

If your vehicle has been damaged by hail, keep these points in mind:

• Comprehensive coverage is required. Hail damage to your vehicle is covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision. Make sure you have this coverage before a storm hits.
• Hail claims typically do not increase your premiums. Comprehensive claims are generally not held against you the way at-fault collision claims are.
• Work with your insurer on assessments and repairs. Your insurance company will assess the damage and may recommend approved repair facilities. Consult with them about the repair process.
• Allow adequate time for repairs. Depending on the severity of the storm, repair shops may be backed up. Be patient and plan accordingly.
• Inspect repairs before leaving the shop. Before you accept the vehicle back, carefully inspect all repairs to make sure they meet your expectations.
• Get written guarantees. Obtain written warranties and guarantees for all repair work performed on your vehicle.

If hail has caused flooding or water damage to your home, follow these guidelines:

• Use qualified contractors. Verify contractors through the Better Business Bureau before hiring them for water damage restoration.
• Avoid door-to-door solicitors. Be cautious of contractors who show up uninvited after a storm. These solicitors may not be reputable.
• Obtain references. Ask for and check references before committing to any contractor for repair work.
• Understand your mitigation responsibilities. As a policyholder, you have a duty to mitigate further damage. Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage to your property.
• Expect joint checks with your mortgage lender. Insurance payouts for home damage are often issued as joint checks with your mortgage company. Be prepared for this process.
• Allow time for the repair process. Major repairs take time. Set realistic expectations for the timeline.
• Do not pay the full amount upfront. Never pay a contractor the full amount before work is completed. A reasonable deposit is normal, but withhold final payment until you are satisfied with the work.
• Review contracts carefully. Read all contracts thoroughly, paying special attention to cancellation fees and other clauses before signing.
• Keep thorough documentation. Document everything related to the damage and repairs, including photos, receipts, correspondence, and contracts.

If your business has been damaged by hail, contact All Access Insurance to discuss your commercial property claim. Our team can help guide you through the process.