Calgary sits in one of the most hail-prone regions in Canada, and major storms here have caused more than a billion dollars in insured damage in a single day. If your home was hit, acting quickly and keeping good records makes the claim process much smoother.
1. Stay safe and check from the ground
Don't climb onto your roof after a storm. Wet or damaged shingles are slippery, and hail damage is often hard to see up close anyway. From the ground, look for:
- Dents in eavestroughs, downspouts, roof vents and metal flashing
- Cracked, chipped or holed vinyl siding
- Dents or chipped paint on fibre cement or aluminum
- Torn window screens and damaged window capping
- Shingle granules washing out of your downspouts
Take dated photos of anything you notice, plus the hailstones themselves if you can, next to a coin or ruler for scale.
2. Prevent further damage
If water is getting in, take reasonable steps to limit it, such as a bucket under a drip or a tarp over a broken window, and keep receipts. Most policies expect you to prevent additional damage where you safely can.
3. Get a professional inspection
A roofing contractor can safely inspect your roof and document damage you can't see from the ground: bruised shingles, fractured mats and granule loss. A good contractor will also tell you honestly if the damage is minor and not worth a claim, since claims can affect your premiums.
Free inspection: Red Star Renovations is an insurance-preferred contractor. We'll inspect and photograph the damage at no cost. How our claim process works.
4. File your claim promptly
Contact your insurer as soon as possible. Most home insurance policies have time limits for reporting damage, so check your policy. Have ready:
- Your policy number and the date of the storm
- Your photos and any inspection report
- A list of damaged areas: roof, siding, eavestrough, windows, fences, vehicles
5. Meet the adjuster
Your insurer will send an adjuster to assess the damage. It helps to have your contractor there too, so nothing gets missed and both sides agree on the scope of repairs.
6. Review the scope and choose your contractor
In most cases you can choose your own contractor. Check your policy or ask your adjuster. When comparing contractors, look for:
- A local, established business with a real phone number and address
- Memberships and accreditations, such as the AARA and the BBB
- A written workmanship warranty
- An itemized quote that matches the approved insurance scope
Be cautious of storm chasers: out-of-town crews who knock on doors after big storms, ask for large deposits or pressure you to sign on the spot.
7. Understand what you'll pay
You'll typically pay your deductible, plus the cost of any upgrades beyond like-for-like replacement. Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles, for example, are a popular upgrade in Calgary, and some insurers offer premium discounts for them.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my roof has hail damage?
Common signs include dented vents and eavestroughs, granules in your downspouts, and dark bruises or soft spots on shingles. A professional inspection is the most reliable way to confirm damage.
Will a hail claim raise my premiums?
It can, depending on your insurer and claims history. That's why an honest inspection first is worthwhile. Ask your insurer or broker about your specific policy.
Can I choose my own contractor for an insurance repair?
In most cases, yes. Confirm with your policy or adjuster.
