If a significant storm just rolled through your area — Boerne, San Antonio, Stone Oak, Bulverde, anywhere in Central Texas — there's a 72-hour window where the right actions set up a successful claim and the wrong ones cost you money.
Here's the checklist we walk our customers through.
Hour 0–6: Safety and immediate documentation
- Don't go on the roof. Wet, possibly damaged surfaces are dangerous. Inspect from the ground.
- Photograph everything. Walk the perimeter of your home with a phone camera. Time-stamped photos are gold for claims.
- Document collateral damage. AC condenser fins, gutters, screens, fence tops, outdoor furniture, vehicles. Hail leaves marks on metal that prove the size and density of the event.
- Look for missing shingles in the yard. Don't dispose of them — they're evidence.
- Check for active interior leaks. If water is coming in, place buckets and document where it's coming from.
Hour 6–24: Get a real inspection
Here's where the storm chasers show up. Your priorities:
- Don't sign anything with a door-knocker. Especially anyone who's not from your area.
- Call a local, established roofer. BBB accredited, real address, real reviews. Get them out within 24–48 hours.
- Get a written inspection report with photos. This is your evidence if the carrier disputes anything.
Hour 24–48: File the claim (if damage is real)
Once you have an independent inspection confirming damage:
- Call your insurance carrier's claims line (have your policy number ready)
- Provide the date and time of the storm
- Briefly describe the damage observed
- Get a claim number in writing
- Schedule the adjuster — push for an in-person inspection, not a "drone-only" or virtual review
Hour 48–72: Prep for the adjuster
- Schedule your roofer to be present at the adjuster appointment if possible
- Pull together your inspection report and photos
- Have your declarations page handy to confirm coverage
- Note your wind/hail deductible — most Texas policies are 1–2% of dwelling coverage
What to do if the carrier denies or partially approves
This happens often. Steps:
- Request a written explanation of what was denied and why
- Have your roofer file a supplement with photos and code references
- If still denied, request a re-inspection (your right under most policies)
- If still denied and you believe damage is real, consider a public adjuster
Common 72-hour mistakes
The two biggest mistakes: signing with the first door-knocker who shows up, and waiting too long to file. Both cost homeowners thousands every storm season.
Save this number
If you're in our service area, save us in your phone now. After a storm hits, response times stretch fast. Existing customers and pre-storm-inspected homes always get priority.
