Sometimes learning the hard way leads you to the right choice

From Crisis to Confidence: How I Helped a Homeowner Navigate Their Hail Claim During a Family Emergency

Life doesn’t wait for the perfect moment to throw challenges our way. Recently, I worked with a homeowner juggling the aftermath of a severe Colorado Springs hailstorm, the lingering frustration from a previous contractor, and a family emergency. Overwhelmed and stretched thin, they turned to me for support.

The Scene

When I first met this homeowner, they were navigating the aftermath of a major hailstorm. I inspected their roof, laid out a detailed plan, and explained exactly what they could expect throughout the process. But in the end, they decided to go with another contractor who promised faster results and a smoother process.

It wasn’t long before that decision turned into months of frustration—delayed timelines, poor communication, and a project that never seemed to reach completion. Overwhelmed and disappointed, they turned back to me to address their mother’s roof, determined to have the job done right this time.

The Challenge

This project presented multiple hurdles:

Completing the roof replacement efficiently so the home could be listed and sold as quickly as possible.This wasn’t just about fixing a roof—it was about restoring trust. The homeowner was dealing with the stress of the previous contractor’s failure while also managing a family emergency. They needed someone who could:

Managing the initial adjuster meeting with an unreliable adjuster while the homeowner was out of town.

Ensuring all damage, including the interior drywall leak, was documented and accounted for in the insurance claim.

Coordinating with other trades for estimates on the additional repairs needed to prepare the house for market.

1. Provide an accurate, thorough assessment of the damage.
2. Navigate the insurance process with minimal involvement from them.
3. Execute the job efficiently, respecting their mother’s home and schedule.

My Step-by-Step Approach (Solution)

1. Taking Charge of the Adjuster Meeting:
   With the homeowner out of town, I stepped in to handle the adjuster meeting. I presented a thorough inspection report, advocated for the homeowner, and ensured the flaky adjuster didn’t overlook any of the damage, including the interior leak that had caused drywall issues.
2. Coordinating Repairs Beyond the Roof:
   Knowing the homeowner’s urgency to list the property, I helped gather estimates from trusted trades for the interior drywall repair. This not only ensured the repairs were completed quickly but also guaranteed the insurance covered the additional work.
3. Streamlined Communication:
   While the homeowner managed their family emergency, I kept them updated at every step. From the adjuster’s decisions to coordinating with contractors, I made sure they knew exactly what was happening without needing to micromanage from afar.
4. Efficient Roof Replacement:
   My crew got to work immediately, replacing the roof quickly while respecting the property and ensuring minimal disruption.
5. Final Touch Service:
   Once the roof was installed, Petrali Roofing sent their Final Touch team returned to make sure the property was immaculate—no debris, no mess, just a stunning new roof that added curb appeal.

The Outcome

The results were better than anyone expected. The new roof and repaired interior not only restored the home’s value but also elevated its market readiness. Incredibly, the house sold just a day or two after the roof was installed—a win-win for the homeowner.

They told me later that the process was nothing like their previous experience with a different contractor. This time, they felt supported, informed, and confident, even during one of the most stressful times of their life.

My Perspective:

I don’t just fix roofs—I solve problems. When this homeowner trusted me to take the reins, I made it my mission to handle every detail as if it were my own home. From dealing with the adjuster to ensuring every repair was completed efficiently, I worked to deliver a result that exceeded their expectations.

“If you’re dealing with storm damage, selling your home, or simply want someone who takes care of the details so you don’t have to, Contact me today.”

“What a great experience!
Confession… I first met Gerry last summer after a big hail storm. He did everything right, but after getting multiple bids, I went with another company who promised the moon. It was a long, drawn-out headache, and I regret that decision.
When I suspected damage to my mother’s roof, I called Gerry. It was a completely different experience. The whole staff has been very kind. Communication has been on point. The crew were efficient and very respectful of the property. Gerry was able to work directly with my insurance company when needed, and he was able to accommodate my schedule when I was called away for a family emergency.
There was even a Final Touch team who came out to make sure there was no debris left after the job was completed.
The new roof is beautiful, and I will recommend Petrali in the future.”

Traveler Hawk,
Colorado Springs, CO