A Hailstorm Hit Ballwin — Now What? Your Guide to Post-Storm Action

A hailstorm hits Ballwin; here are the next steps for homeowners

BALLWIN, Mo. – A hailstorm can cause significant damage to a home’s exterior, leaving homeowners with questions about how to proceed. Experts advise a methodical approach focusing on safety, documentation and professional assessment.

Following these steps can help residents navigate the aftermath of a storm.

1. Ensure safety

After a storm passes, homeowners should first survey their property for immediate hazards like downed power lines, broken glass or unstable tree limbs. A preliminary inspection for property damage should be done from the ground.

Professionals advise against climbing on a roof, which can be slippery and dangerous after a storm.

2. Document the damage

Thorough documentation is critical for an insurance claim.

Take clear photographs and videos of all damaged areas, including the roof, siding, gutters and windows.
Note the date and time of the storm.
If possible, photograph hailstones next to a ruler or coin to indicate their size.

3. Inspect the home’s exterior

While a professional contractor should conduct a detailed assessment, homeowners can look for obvious signs of damage from the ground.

Roofing: Look for missing or cracked shingles. Hail impacts on asphalt shingles often appear as dark, circular bruises where the protective granules have been knocked away. An accumulation of these granules in gutters is another sign of damage.

Siding: Check for dents, cracks or chips.

Gutters and downspouts: Dents in metal gutters and downspouts are a clear indication of hail.

Windows: Inspect screens for tears and window sills for dents or cracks.

4. Contact the insurance company

Homeowners should promptly notify their insurance provider of the potential damage. The company will assign a claim number and an adjuster to assess the property.

It is important for homeowners to understand their policy, including the deductible and whether the coverage is for replacement cost value or actual cash value.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV) covers the cost to replace the damaged property with new materials of a similar kind and quality, without a deduction for depreciation.

Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays for the replacement cost minus depreciation.

5. Choose a reputable contractor

After the insurance adjuster’s assessment, homeowners will need to select a contractor for repairs.

“It is critical to choose a company that is properly licensed, insured and has a history of quality work in the area,” said a spokesperson for Family First Exteriors, a local contracting company.

Homeowners should get a detailed written estimate that outlines the scope of work, materials and total cost. Asking for and checking references is also recommended.