When a major storm rolls through Oklahoma, the first 24–72 hours matter. What you do right after hail or high winds can impact how smoothly — and how quickly — your claim is handled.
Step one: protect the property from further damage. Insurance policies require you to mitigate damage. If shingles are blown off and water is coming in, get a tarp on the roof as soon as it’s safe. If windows are broken, board them up. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs. Carriers expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent additional loss.
Step two: document everything. Before temporary repairs are made, take clear photos and video of roof damage, siding, fencing, interior leaks, and fallen trees. Walk the entire perimeter of the home. Photograph gutters, AC units, vehicles, and outbuildings. The more documentation you have, the easier the claim process becomes.
Step three: call us if you’re unsure. Not every storm means you should automatically file a claim. Sometimes the damage falls below your deductible. If you’re not sure, have a conversation first. We can help you think through whether it makes financial sense to turn it in. Plus we have come vetted roofers we can refer out that have achieved a good reputation helping our clients so you are sure to get a quality professional to come out.
But if there is obvious major damage — file the claim quickly. After widespread hail events, adjuster schedules back up fast. Claims are generally handled in the order received. Waiting two weeks can put you thousands of spots back in line. Getting to the front of the queue helps you secure repairs faster.
Use a quality, insured roofer. After big storms, out-of-town contractors flood neighborhoods. Always verify the contractor is insured and established. Ask for a certificate of insurance. Check references. A poor installation can create claim issues later, and the insurance company will not warranty your contractor’s work. Storm recovery is stressful enough. The goal is simple: stop further damage, document thoroughly, file promptly when appropriate, and work with reputable professionals. Taking steady, smart steps right away keeps a bad storm from becoming a long-term financial headache.
If you ever have questions after a storm, call before you guess.
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