Severe hailstorms are a seasonal concern in Fort Collins, Colorado. With its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, this region is particularly vulnerable to sudden shifts in weather that can bring intense hail. The average diameter of hailstones in this area frequently exceeds 1 inch, large enough to cause serious damage to rooftops, vehicles, and property. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Colorado ranks among the top five states for hail events annually, with more than 300 hail days reported across its counties in a typical year.
For homeowners and business owners, especially in storm-prone areas like Fort Collins, the aftermath of a hailstorm can be stressful and confusing. That’s why understanding what to do immediately after a storm hits—from inspecting your property to filing a roof insurance claim—is critical to minimizing long-term damage and financial loss. New Heights Construction, LLC is committed to helping Fort Collins residents through this process with empathy, expertise, and local trust.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Document Damage
Once the hailstorm has passed, your first responsibility is to ensure everyone in your household is safe. Avoid going outside until the storm has fully cleared, as follow-up weather cells are common in Colorado’s Front Range.
After confirming safety, start carefully documenting any property damage. This will be crucial for filing a storm damage claim.
Use your smartphone or camera to capture images of:
- Dented gutters and downspouts
- Damaged siding or cracked windows
- Loose, curled, or missing shingles
- Hailstones on the ground with a ruler for size reference
- Any signs of leaks or ceiling stains indoors
What to avoid:
- Climbing onto your roof is dangerous and potentially unstable
- Disposing of damaged roofing material before it’s assessed
- Delaying documentation, as weather and time can obscure damage
According to the Insurance Information Institute, “Keeping detailed records increases the likelihood of a successful claim and can expedite the process.” Aim for time-stamped photos and videos whenever possible.
Step 2: Schedule a Professional Storm Roof Inspection
Roof damage caused by hail isn’t always visible from the ground. You may see granules in the gutter or a few cracked shingles, but the true extent often requires a trained expert.
A professional storm roof inspection will assess:
- Surface damage to shingles, tiles, or metal panels
- Underlayment breaches and membrane punctures
- Flashings, vents, and seals for cracking or uplift
- Gutter alignment and water drainage function
New Heights Construction, LLC provides free, no-obligation roof inspections to Fort Collins homeowners. Their inspectors are certified, local, and familiar with the climate-specific wear-and-tear common to northern Colorado homes. A full inspection report with photos and recommendations can serve as official documentation for your insurance claim.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Provider
With your inspection report and photo evidence in hand, contact your homeowner’s insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies impose strict timeframes for storm claim filings—some as short as 180 days.
When contacting your insurer:
- Provide your policy number and home address
- Describe the storm event and the date it occurred
- Share your documentation, including the contractor’s assessment
- Clarify coverage specifics, including your deductible and exclusions
Be proactive. The Colorado Division of Insurance urges homeowners to notify their insurer promptly and retain all communication records. You may also request your contractor to be present during the adjuster’s visit—this ensures a fair evaluation. New Heights Construction, LLC can coordinate with your adjuster directly to verify that no damage is overlooked or under-scoped.
Step 4: Choose a Local Roofer You Can Trust
Once your claim is approved, it’s time to begin repairs. Be cautious—storm-chasing contractors often descend on Fort Collins neighborhoods after a hail event, offering quick services and disappearing before warranty issues arise.
Hiring a local, licensed contractor like New Heights Construction, LLC ensures:
- Compliance with Fort Collins building codes and zoning
- Workmanship backed by warranties and insurance
- Ongoing support if problems arise post-installation
- Trusted reviews and community involvement
High-quality repairs begin with high-quality materials. Impact-resistant shingles rated UL 2218 Class 4 can protect your home from future storms and may even reduce your insurance premiums. Ask your contractor about these options, and consider comprehensive exterior restoration if gutters, fascia, or siding were also damaged.
New Heights Construction, LLC offers complete exterior repair solutions tailored for Fort Collins homeowners. Whether it’s roofing, gutters, or storm damage repair, their approach is rooted in transparency and accountability.
The Emotional Aftermath and Rebuilding with Confidence
Storm damage is more than just physical—it’s emotional. A hailstorm can shake your sense of security, especially when the damage isn’t immediately obvious. Your roof protects everything inside your home, and the idea of it being compromised can create anxiety, especially with unpredictable Colorado weather on the horizon.
That’s why empathy, honesty, and clear communication matter as much as technical skill. New Heights Construction, LLC is more than a contractor—they’re your neighbor. Their team walks every client through the process with patience and professionalism, offering support at each step: from inspection and filing to final cleanup. You’re never just a job number.
Peace of Mind Starts with a Single Step
Hailstorms are a reality of life in Fort Collins, but knowing how to respond can turn a stressful event into a manageable one. Prompt inspections, accurate documentation, and working with the right contractor can mean the difference between a drawn-out insurance process and swift resolution.
If your home was impacted by a recent hailstorm, don’t wait for the damage to spread.
Schedule your free storm damage inspection with New Heights Construction, LLC today. With local roots, professional integrity, and a proven track record, they’ll help you protect your most valuable asset—your home.