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admin 25 April 2023 Comments (0)

Roof Damage After a Hail Storm on 4/25/2023 – You live in Clermont, FL 34714: Now What?

by Benjamin Goss, MBA

Sometimes, the sky turns angry and hails down as if the gods themselves were angry. Massive balls of ice pounding on the rooftops of Clermont, Florida just like it did on the afternoon of April 25th, 2023 … Whether it was an army of sky trolls with hammers of ice or not … ice from the heavens inflicts damage and the aftermath can be quite daunting.

Hail, even when small, can inflict significant damage to your roof, leading to leaks, structural issues, and a host of other problems. So, if you find yourself surveying a hail-battered roof, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next.

lightning strikes
Photo by Frank Cone on Pexels.com
  1. Stay Safe and Document: Your first instinct might be to climb onto your roof for an inspection. However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Hail can make your roof slippery and unstable. Instead, do a visual check from the ground or through upper-story windows. Document the date of the storm and take photos of the hailstones alongside a ruler for size reference. These photos can serve as evidence when you file an insurance claim.
  2. Contact Your Insurance Company: As a homeowner in Clermont, FL 34714, you likely have homeowners insurance that covers hail damage. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage. They’ll guide you through the claim process and arrange for an adjuster to inspect your roof. Remember to provide your documentation and be present during the adjuster’s visit to ensure all damages are accounted for.
  3. Hire a Licensed, Local Roofing Contractor: The next step is finding a reputable, licensed roofing contractor with experience in hail damage repairs. A local contractor familiar with Clermont’s building codes and weather conditions will be your best bet. They can provide a thorough roof inspection, identify hidden damages, and give a detailed estimate for repairs. Make sure to cross-verify their license and insurance details before signing any contract.
  4. Get a Detailed Estimate and Plan: Once you’ve chosen a contractor, they should provide a detailed written estimate. This includes the scope of work, materials required, estimated costs, and a timeline for completion. Ensure you understand this plan, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. A reliable contractor will welcome your queries and explain any technical details in layman’s terms.
  5. Communicate with Your Contractor and Insurance Company: It’s vital to facilitate communication between your contractor and insurance company. The contractor can advocate for necessary repairs that an insurance adjuster might overlook. This open line of communication can lead to a more accurate claim approval, ensuring you receive the coverage you need.
  6. Commence Repairs: With the estimate approved and insurance settled, it’s time for the actual repairs. A good contractor will keep you informed about the progress, address any issues that arise, and work efficiently to minimize disruption to your life.
  7. Prevent Future Hail Damage: While you can’t control the weather, certain measures can make your roof more hail-resistant. Discuss these options with your contractor. This could include impact-resistant roofing materials or protective roof coatings. Investing in a hail-resistant roof now can save you time, money, and stress in the future.

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed when dealing with roof damage post a hail storm. But remember, you’re not alone in this process. Utilize the expertise of professionals – from your insurance provider to your local roofing contractor – and know that your home will be back to normal soon.

Finally, it’s worth noting that, while hail damage is a nuisance, it also provides an opportunity. It’s a chance to upgrade your roof, bolster your home’s defense against the whims of the weather, and ultimately, enhance your peace of mind knowing that you’re better prepared for the next storm. Stay safe, Clermont!

RdyBenGoss

I am intimately familiar with feeling like my hair is on fire while I try to slow things down and focus on the person (or people) I am with. Sometimes I fail miserably to be present. I have had deals stolen from me, customers refuse to pay, and employer/market partners renege on agreements and promises.

As an author, I have self-published several guides and two books. Prior to engaging in my current projects which include books on sales, management, storm restoration contracting and politics I read more than 150 books on sales & business topics, attended hundreds of hours of seminars, and watched thousands of hours of videos regarding the same.
I earned a master’s in business administration (MBA) from Regis University in Denver, Colorado.

I recruited and trained hundreds of salespeople, made thousands of cold calls, knocked on thousands of doors, and successfully completed thousands of sales presentations that resulted in revenue for the companies I have represented. Because I find it hard to sit still, I have worked in 15+ major metro markets across America, and I have moved my family and lived in seven of them (Philadelphia, Orlando, Phoenix, Denver, Kansas City, Omaha and Richmond).

With more than 25 years of experience in various phases and market verticals within the construction industry, this also includes nearly 15 years of experience in the storm restoration industry with an emphasis on roofing. I have personal experience with storm damage inspections (~10,000+), Xactimate estimating (~4,000+) and completing restoration projects including those for complex historic and/or commercial projects [i.e. Natural Slate and Ludowici Clay Tile].

My certifications include, but are not limited to FLIR Level 1, flat roof certifications (EPDM, TPO, and PVC), roof coatings systems, and tile roof certification in all 50 states, including Florida High Wind Tile Installation certification. Finally, I was licensed as the qualifying party as a Class A general contractor with no heigh restrictions in multiple states and jurisdictions.

I trust it’s abundantly clear that I love to talk and engage in conversation. Surprisingly, I also enjoy writing. Surprising, at least to me because I hated English as a subject in school - too many rules. Ha!

What I am most proud of is continuing to help my wife of more than 26 years raise 6 amazing children (3 boys and 3 girls). Our two Doberman Pinschers are pretty cool as well. (If anyone has tips on how to write a better bio - please email me! ;-).

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