Most people don’t know what to do after a storm. If you’ve just had one roll through your area, it can be hard to tell what sort of storm damage might be concealed under all that debris and if your insurance policy will cover the cost to repair.

One of the most common types of storm damage is hail damage. Hailstones can range in size from pea-sized to softball-sized rocks. They can break windows, dent the roof, and cause serious structural damage to the exterior of your home. If you have a hole in your roof, all your shingles are cracked, or your gutters have been damaged by hail, you will most likely need to file roof insurance claims in Jackson MS, Byram MS, and Clinton MS. These types of damages can cost thousands of dollars and depending on the extent of the damage and what is covered by your policy and deductible, you may want to get your insurance company involved.

Severe high winds can uproot trees and cause them to fall onto homes and property. In addition to causing physical damage to the structure itself, strong winds can also rip shingles off roofs, which can cause significant roof damage and roof leaks.

After a storm has passed, check for any water leaks in your attic or the upper floors of your home. If it appears that rainwater has begun to seep through the ceiling or walls, you should file roof insurance claims in Jackson MS, as soon as possible, as water can weaken roofing materials and cause structural problems over time.

If you’re unsure of what to look for, consider hiring a reputable roofing contractor from Watkins Construction & Roofing that services areas in Clinton, Jackson, and Ridgeland, MS to do an inspection. A professional roofing contractor can inspect your roof, identify specific types of damage, even subtle ones, and prepare a damage report that includes photos and other documentation for an insurance adjuster.

An inspection by a contractor will tell you whether the damage is significant enough to file a claim and require an inspection by an adjuster from your roofing company. It could also save your insurance company money on unnecessary claims – which could have much impact on future premium costs.