Published by Blue Bear · Updated October 24, 2026
Your first steps after a hailstorm
- Wait until conditions are safe. Keep your assessment at ground level. Do not climb onto a wet or storm-damaged roof. If there is an immediate danger, use the appropriate emergency service.
- Make a simple record. Note the storm date, visible changes and leaks. Take photos only from safe locations and keep receipts for necessary temporary protection.
- Speak with your insurer or agent. Ask about reporting requirements, deadlines, your deductible and documentation. Avoid assuming coverage from the storm alone.
- Arrange a roof inspection. Explain what you observed and ask for the findings, recommended work and reasons in writing.
- Review the scope before agreeing to work. Compare materials, removal, decking allowances, cleanup, permits, payment terms and written warranty terms.
The Colorado Division of Insurance recommends documenting damage, contacting your insurer and carefully checking contractors and written agreements. See its hail-storm consumer guidance and insurance questions after hail.
What can I tell from the ground?
You can record visible changes and explain when you first noticed them. Ground-level photos and a storm date are starting information, not a roof diagnosis. Tell the inspector about leaks, previous repairs and any areas you cannot see. Ask which findings support the recommendation and which conditions need further evaluation.
If my roof is not leaking, should I still ask for an inspection?
If you are concerned after hail, an inspection can help establish the roof's condition. The absence of a reported leak does not establish that the roof needs no work, and hail nearby does not establish that replacement is needed. Blue Bear offers free roof inspections; contact Rick to confirm access and scheduling.
Does hail mean I need a whole new roof?
No automatic conclusion should be made from the storm alone. Ask what is affected, whether a limited repair is reasonable, and why replacement is recommended if that is the proposed scope. Request an itemized explanation so you can distinguish necessary work, options and unresolved conditions. Confirm any repair scope available through Blue Bear with Rick.
Should I call a roofer or my insurer first?
You can contact your insurer about the policy while arranging an inspection to understand the construction condition. Ask your insurer about deadlines and the information it needs. Blue Bear can discuss construction documentation; your insurer makes coverage and claim decisions. An inspection, estimate or contractor recommendation does not guarantee insurance payment.
What should a replacement estimate explain?
- The roof areas and work included, with options and exclusions.
- Material selection and any proposed change to roof details.
- Existing-material removal, decking findings and how unforeseen work is approved.
- Access, protection, cleanup, permits and inspection responsibilities.
- Schedule assumptions, payment terms and the actual material and workmanship warranties offered.
Roof size, slope, access, layers, material and underlying conditions affect the proposal. A reliable cost or completion date needs a property-specific scope. Ask about impact-resistant options and any insurer requirements before choosing; no discount or particular product performance is promised here.
What changes by city or HOA?
Check the property address and current requirements before ordering material. Our local resource covers Aurora permits and decking questions, Castle Pines permits and HOA review, and Arvada reroofing and wildfire-zone checks. A mailing city alone does not establish the permitting authority.
How do I compare roofing contractors?
Ask for applicable licensing information, insurance evidence, relevant references and a written agreement. Verify those details rather than relying on a door-to-door promise. Compare what each proposal includes and ask who will communicate with you about changes, scheduling and the final inspection.
Request your free Blue Bear roof inspection
Send your city, property type, callback information, storm date if known and a short description of the concern. Mention an active leak, solar equipment or HOA restrictions. Avoid sending policy numbers or sensitive insurance documents through the initial form.
Request a free roof inspection
Call Rick Nieto at 303-805-8000, Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Mountain time. Inspection timing and access are confirmed individually. Blue Bear is operated by Phoenix Coatings and Contracting LLC.