Hail damage? Here is what you need to do get repairs done quickly

DENVER – Monday’shail storm caused extensive damage to homes and vehiclesin the Denver area. If you were one of the unlucky ones, there are steps you need to take in order to get your repairs made quickly.

What’s your next move?

According to the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association, assess the damage by checking trees and plants around your house. If you don’t see any foliage on the branches, there is a possibility your roof is damaged. Check your car for damage as well.

Once you have assessed the damage on your property, contact your home or auto insurance company to discuss filing a claim. Hail damage falls under the comprehensive coverage provision of your auto insurance policies, but your deductible still applies. Liability coverage does not cover weather damage. Virtually all homeowners policies cover hail damage.

After contacting your insurance company, select a reputable roofing company or auto body shop to make repairs. But be patient, most shops will be making appointments weeks out as they try to get through a deluge of repair claims.

Avoid scams

The Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association offers the following tips to avoid being scammed:

• Be wary of out-of-town roofers who move into an area and set up shop following a storm. While most of these firms are reputable, some have collected money from homeowners and moved on to the next storm site without paying suppliers or leaving work unfinished. This can leave homeowners holding the bag for those additional costs. It's a good idea to select a company with established credibility and local references. Word of mouth is still your best guide.
• Be sure roofers have workers compensation and liability insurance. If they don't, you may be held liable if one of the workers is injured or if they damage a neighbor's property.
• Don't make final payment to the roofing company until your roof has been inspected and you are satisfied.