The storm passed, the ice melted off the lawn, and now there’s a roofing flyer wedged in your door. Before you sign anything — here’s the level-headed playbook San Antonio homeowners should follow after hail.
Step 1: Check What You Can See Safely
From the ground, look for dented gutters and downspouts, damaged window screens, pockmarked AC fins, and shingle granules piled at downspout exits. These are strong indicators your roof took hits too — but their absence doesn’t clear the roof. Shingle bruising is usually invisible from below.
Step 2: Get a Professional Inspection — a Free One
A reputable local roofer will inspect free of charge and document everything with dated photos. That documentation matters even if you don’t file now: Texas policies typically give you one year from the storm date, and damage documented early is far easier to attribute. Book a free inspection here.
Step 3: Know the Storm-Chaser Red Flags
- Pressure to sign a contract or “letter of intent” at your door
- Offers to waive or “absorb” your deductible — illegal in Texas under HB 2102
- Out-of-state plates and no verifiable local address
- A demand for full payment up front
Step 4: File Smart, Not Fast
If the inspection finds legitimate damage, file with photo evidence attached and have your roofer meet the adjuster on the roof. If the inspection finds nothing claim-worthy, don’t file — a weak claim wastes everyone’s time. That’s the honest verdict we give at Trident’s storm inspections every week.
Step 5: Consider the Upgrade
If insurance does buy you a new roof, consider paying the difference for Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. Many carriers discount premiums for them, and you may break the every-three-years claim cycle entirely.