Your First 24 Hours Determine Whether You Get $28,000 or $0
Last May, Mike Thompson from Briargate watched golf ball-sized hail pummel his home for 11 minutes. The next morning, he looked at his roof from the ground, saw no obvious damage, and made the same mistake 73% of Colorado Springs homeowners make: he waited.
Eighteen months later, Mike discovered massive water damage throughout his attic. The repair bill? $47,000. His insurance claim? Denied—filed too late.
The difference between Mike’s outcome and a successful $28,000 insurance claim? The actions taken in the first 24 hours.
This guide ensures you’ll never become another Mike Thompson.
Why the First 24 Hours Are Critical
In Colorado Springs, hail damage documentation is time-sensitive for three reasons:
1. Evidence Disappears Quickly
In Colorado Springs, hail damage documentation is time-sensitive for three reasons:
- Wind redistributes debris
- Rain washes away loose granules, making hail damage look more like normal wear and tear
- UV exposure darkens fresh hail impacts, giving adjusters room to claim the damage is old
2. Insurance Company Deadlines Start Immediately
Most homeowners insurance policies require “prompt notification” of loss—a deliberately vague term insurers use to their advantage. While your policy may technically allow up to a year for formal claims, waiting even a few weeks before initial contact gives adjusters leverage to deny coverage, claiming the damage went “unreported” or questioning whether it’s storm-related.
Filing deadlines vary significantly by carrier and policy, so review your specific coverage. Here are common timeframes among major insurers:
- State Farm: 2-year filing window, but delays weaken claims
- Allstate: 1-year deadline with strict “prompt notification” language
- Farmers: 180-day preferred window for best claim outcomes
- USAA: “Reasonable time” from date of discovery—lets them dispute when you should have noticed
After 30 days without contact, claim approval rates drop from 67% to 43%. After 90 days, they plummet to 18%.
3. Secondary Damage Begins Immediately
Compromised shingles allow water intrusion with the first rainfall after hail impact. Colorado Springs’ unique Front Range climate accelerates this deterioration through multiple environmental stressors:
- Frequent summer storms: Afternoon thunderstorms strike 3-4 times weekly during June through August, each bringing potential water intrusion
- Extreme temperature cycling: 50°F+ temperature swings occur several times annually, expanding and contracting damaged materials and widening cracks
- Intense high-altitude UV: At 6,035 feet elevation, UV radiation is approximately 25% more intense than sea level, rapidly degrading exposed asphalt and adhesives
Every day you wait, your roof gets worse—and your claim gets harder to prove.
Hour 0-2: Safety & Emergency Protection
Immediate Safety Assessment
Before documenting anything, ensure your family’s safety:
Check for immediate dangers:
- Downed power lines near your property
- Broken windows with exposed glass
- Buckets and plastic sheeting for active leaks ($20-$50)
- Structural damage to walls or ceiling
- Gas leaks (smell of natural gas)
- Water actively pouring into your home
If you discover any of these, evacuate and call:
- 911 for emergencies
- Colorado Springs Utilities: (719) 448-4800
- Your insurance 24-hour emergency line
Emergency Protection (Insurance Covers This)
Critical: Your policy requires you to prevent further damage. Take these steps and save all receipts:
Temporary repairs insurance covers:
- Tarps to cover exposed roof areas ($50-$200)
- Plywood to board broken windows ($30-$100 per window)
- Buckets and plastic sheeting for active leaks ($20-$50)
- Emergency roof leak repair (up to $500-$1,000)
Important Rules:
- Do NOT authorize permanent repairs yet
- Do NOT sign any contractor agreements
- Do NOT let fly-by-night roofers on your roof—even for “emergency” tarping
- DO save all receipts (insurance reimburses these costs)
Colorado Springs Emergency Tarping Services
If you need immediate help securing your property, local contractors can provide emergency tarping services.
- “I’m not sure if there’s actual damage”
- “The roof was pretty old anyway”
- “It might have been damaged before”
- “I can’t see much from the ground”
- “Maybe it’s just cosmetic”
- “When can I expect the adjuster inspection?”
What to expect from legitimate contractors:
- Professional assessment of emergency needs
- Clear explanation of temporary vs. permanent repairs
- Documentation for your insurance claim
- No pressure to sign repair contracts during emergency visit
- Time to review their inspection findings and insurance adjuster’s assessment before making repair decisions
Red flags that indicate problems:
- Demanding you sign repair contracts before the insurance adjuster inspects
- Offering to “waive your deductible” (illegal in Colorado)
- Pressure to commit to full roof replacement before claim approval
- No local office or verifiable references
- Refusing to provide written estimates
- Asking for large upfront payments before insurance settlement
The right approach: Legitimate professionals will secure your property immediately, document damage for your claim, and wait for insurance adjuster results before discussing repair contracts. You should never feel pressured to commit to a full roof replacement within hours of storm damage.
Hour 2-6: The Critical Documentation Window
This is the most important section. Professional documentation in the first 6 hours can mean the difference between claim approval and denial.
Exterior Photo Documentation Checklist
Take minimum 40 photos covering:
Roof damage (from ground level if unsafe to climb):
- All four sides of your home (north, south, east, west)
- Close-ups of visible shingle damage
- Missing or lifted shingles
- Roof vents, skylights, and flashing
- Chimney (if applicable)
- Multiple angles of each damaged area
Gutters and downspouts:
- Dents in gutters (use a coin for scale)
- Damaged gutter guards
- Detached or bent downspouts
- Accumulated granules in gutters (indicates shingle deterioration)
Soft metal indicators (proves hail occurrence):
- Air conditioning units (top and condenser fins)
- Window flashing
- Metal furnace caps
- Roof vents and turbines
- Chimney Flashing
- Metal siding or trim
- Skylights
Collateral Damage:
- Vehicles (separate claim)
- Deck railings
- Outdoor furniture
- Fence damage
- Siding cracks or dents
- Window screens
- Skylights
Context photos:
- Your house number/address (proves location)
- Street view showing neighboring homes
- Storm debris in yard
- Hail accumulation (if still present)
Interior Documentation
Attic inspection:
- Water stains on rafters
- Wet insulation
- Daylight visible through roof deck
- Condensation or moisture
Ceilings and walls:
- Water stains
- Bubbling paint
- Cracks or sagging drywall
- Discoloration
Windows:
- Cracked glass
- Water intrusion around frames
- Damaged screens
- Dented or cracked window frames
- cracked glazing beads
Video Documentation (3-5 Minutes)
Walk around your property recording:
- Slow 360-degree pan of entire roof
- Close-up walk along each side
- Gutter and downspout damage
- Soft metal damage with narration (“This is the AC unit on the north side, showing multiple hail impacts”)
- Interior attic conditions
Pro tip: Narrate while filming:
- “This is [Your Address], Colorado Springs, 80920”
- “Today’s date is [Date], approximately [Time] after the hailstorm”
- “This damage is on the [direction] side of the home”
Weather Verification Documentation
Screenshot and save:
- NOAA Storm Reports: weather.gov/pub/
- National Weather Service Boulder: weather.gov/bou
- Hail Size Reports: Colorado Springs local news stations
- Your Ring/Nest doorbell footage (if available)
- Neighbor’s security camera footage (ask permission)
Colorado Springs-specific weather resources:
- KKTV 11 Weather
- KRDO NewsRadio Storm Tracker
- Colorado Springs Weather Facebook groups
Hour 6-12: Making the Critical First Call
Before You Call: Gather This Information
Have ready:
- Name of roofing company who inspected your roof
- Policy number
- Date and time of storm
- Your claim documentation organized
- List of visible damage
- Notebook for notes
What to Say (Script)
Information they’ll request:
Opening: “I’m calling to report hail damage to my home at [Address] that occurred on [Date] at approximately [Time]. I’d like to file a claim.”
Information they’ll request:
- Policy number
- Date and approximate time of storm
- Description of damage observed
- Whether emergency repairs were made
- If you had a professional roofer inspect your roof
- Your availability for inspection
Questions to ask:
- “What is my claim number?”
- “Who is my assigned adjuster and their direct contact?”
- “What is the exact deadline for filing my formal claim?”
- “Does my policy have any special requirements for hail claims?”
- “What documentation do you need from me?”
- “When can I expect the adjuster inspection?”
NEVER Say These Phrases
Insurance companies train adjusters to listen for specific statements they can use to deny claims
Avoid saying:
- “I’m not sure if there’s actual damage”
- “The roof was pretty old anyway”
- “It might have been damaged before”
- “I can’t see much from the ground”
- “Maybe it’s just cosmetic”
Instead say:
- “I observed hail damage to my roof and property”
- “Multiple impacts are visible on soft metals”
- “I’ve documented the damage with photos”
- “I need a professional inspection to assess the full extent”
Get Everything in Writing
Request:
- Email confirmation of your call
- Claim number in writing
- Adjuster contact information
- Written timeline for inspection
Follow-up email (send within 1 hour):
Subject: Claim #[NUMBER] – Hail Damage Report – [Your Address]
Dear [Insurance Company],
This email confirms my phone call today at [Time] regarding hail damage to my property at [Address], Colorado Springs, CO [ZIP].
Claim Number: [NUMBER]
Date of Loss: [Date]
Adjuster Assigned (Can take up to 72 hours for an assigned adjuster): [Name]
I have documented the damage with photographs and video, which I will provide during the inspection.
Please confirm receipt of this claim and the scheduled inspection date.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Policy Number]
[Phone Number]
Hour 12-24: Getting Expert Documentation
Why You Need Professional Documentation
Insurance adjusters handle thousands of claims. You’re handling one or two in your lifetime. That experience gap costs Colorado Springs homeowners an average of $3,000-$8,000 in missed coverage.
Professional inspectors provide:
- Carrier-specific documentation methods
- Impact density measurements (hits per test square)
- Code compliance assessment
- Xactimate estimates (insurance industry standard for fair market pricing)
- Written reports with professional photography
- Thermal imaging (detects hidden moisture)
Finding the Right Inspector in Colorado Springs
Look for:
- Local Colorado Springs address and established reputation
- Licensed and insured
- Experience with YOUR insurance carrier
- Knowledge of Pikes Peak Regional Building Department codes
- Written inspection reports included
- Willingness to let you review findings before any commitments
- Willingness to attend the adjuster meeting before any commitments
Red flags that indicate problems:
- High-pressure tactics demanding immediate contract signatures
- Offering to “waive your deductible” (illegal in Colorado)
- Unwilling to wait for insurance adjuster’s assessment
- No verifiable local references or portfolio
- Pushing for repair contracts before claim approval
- Demanding large deposits before insurance settlement
The difference: A professional consultant or contractor will help you document damage and navigate the claims process. They understand that smart homeowners want to see the insurance adjuster’s assessment before committing to repairs. Scammers push for immediate signatures because they know informed homeowners rarely choose them after doing proper due diligence.
Questions to Ask Inspectors
- “How many claims have you documented with [Your Carrier]?”
- “What’s your success rate for claim approvals?”
- “Do you provide a written report I can submit to insurance?”
- “Are you familiar with Pikes Peak building codes?”
- “What does your inspection include?”
- “Is there any cost if my claim is denied?”
- “Can you attend the insurance adjuster’s inspection?”
- “Will you be my point of contact from beginning to end?”
Independent Consulting vs. Contractor Inspections
Independent Roof Consultant:
- No conflict of interest
- Advocates for YOUR claim, not their bid
- Typically no upfront cost (contractor partnerships)
- Expertise in carrier-specific requirements
- Can attend adjuster meetings
Contractor “Free” Inspection:
- Potential conflict of interest (wants repair contract)
- May have incentive to find damage
- Documentation quality varies
- Variable expertise with insurance processes
Gerald Winik’s approach: Independent consulting with vetted contractor partnerships—giving you unbiased expertise at no upfront cost. Assessment and documentation first, repair decisions after insurance adjuster review.
What Happens Next: The Road to Settlement
Professional Inspection (Days 2-3)
Your professional inspector will:
- Conduct 21-point roof assessment
- Document impact density (minimum 8 hits per 10×10 test square for most carriers)
- Photograph damage with professional equipment
- Check code compliance requirements
- Provide written report within 24-48 hours
Formal Claim Submission (Days 4-7)
Submit your complete package:
- Insurance claim forms (completed)
- Your initial photo/video documentation
- Professional inspection report
- Weather verification screenshots
- Receipts for emergency repairs
- Inventory of all damaged property
Submit via three channels:
- Certified mail (creates legal record)
- Insurance company online portal
- Email to adjuster (with read receipt)
Insurance Adjuster Inspection (Days 8-14)
Critical: Have your professional inspector attend this meeting if possible.
During the inspection:
- Point out all damage documented in your report
- Don’t let adjuster inspect alone
- Take photos of the adjuster’s inspection
- Request copy of their findings before they leave
- Get timeline for settlement decision in writing
Settlement Review (Days 15-21)
You’ll receive an estimate showing:
- RCV (Replacement Cost Value): Full replacement cost
- ACV (Actual Cash Value): RCV minus depreciation
- Your Deductible: Your out-of-pocket cost
- Depreciation Holdback: Paid after work completion
If the settlement is too low: Read our complete guide on how to file a roof insurance claim in Colorado Springs.
Colorado Springs-Specific Storm Considerations
High-Altitude Hail Impact
At 6,035 feet elevation, hail falls faster and hits harder:
- Terminal velocity increases 15% vs. sea level
- Even 1-inch hail can cause functional damage
- Cumulative damage from multiple storms common
Documentation tip: Emphasize functional damage (broken seal integrity, granule loss compromising UV protection) over cosmetic concerns.
Pikes Peak Regional Building Department Requirements
Insurance estimates often exclude required code upgrades:
Insurance estimates often exclude required code upgrades:
- Enhanced ice and water shield
- Wind uplift specifications for our wind zones
- Proper ventilation for Colorado climate
- Code-compliant sheathing
Common Storm Patterns by Area
Briargate (80920):
- North-facing damage most common
- Average claim: $28,500
- Wind + hail combination typical
Black Forest (80908):
- Large hail events (golf ball+)
- Average claim: $32,000
- Wildfire mitigation requirements affect roof specs
Broadmoor (80906):
- Severe hail corridors
- Average claim: $45,000
- Historic preservation considerations for some homes
Powers Corridor (80922):
- Frequent smaller hail
- Average claim: $22,000
- Cumulative damage claims common
Frequently Asked Questions
What size hail causes roof damage in Colorado Springs?
Can I wait until morning to document damage from an evening storm?
Should I call my insurance agent or the claims department?
What if I don’t see any obvious damage?
Will filing a claim raise my insurance rates in Colorado?
How long do I really have to file a claim?
Check your specific policy—deadlines vary by carrier.
Most Colorado homeowner policies require notification within 1 year of the date of loss, though some carriers allow up to 2 years. A few policies have shorter windows (180-365 days).
However, the legal deadline is irrelevant compared to the practical deadline:
- Within 30 days: 67% approval rate
- 30-90 days: 43% approval rate
- 90+ days: 18% approval rate
- 6+ months: Nearly impossible to prove storm causation
Why waiting kills claims:
- Evidence disappears (hail melts, marks fade, debris is cleaned)
- Adjusters question why you waited
- Can’t prove which storm caused damage
- Multiple storms make attribution impossible
Best practice: Report damage within 24-72 hours of the storm, even if you’re unsure of the severity. You can always withdraw a claim if damage is minimal, but you can’t file a late claim for severe damage.
Find your deadline: Look in your policy under “Duties After Loss” or “Notice of Claim Requirements.”
Can I choose my own contractor?
What if my roof is 15+ years old?
Should I get multiple inspections?
What happens if it rains before my inspection?
Your 24-Hour Action Checklist
Print this checklist and check off each item:
Hours 0-2: Safety & Protection
- Check for immediate safety hazards
- Call 911 if emergencies exist
- Cover exposed areas with tarps
- Save all emergency repair receipts
- Document emergency measures with photos
Hours 2-6: Documentation
- Take 40+ exterior photos (all angles)
- Document soft metal damage with coin for scale
- Check and photograph attic/interior
- Record 3-5 minute video walkthrough
- Screenshot NOAA weather reports
- Save local news storm coverage
- Request neighbor security camera footage
Hours 6-12: Insurance Contact
- Call insurance 24-hour claim line
- Get claim number in writing
- Check and photograph attic/interior
- Note adjuster name and contact
- Ask about filing deadlines
- Request email confirmation
- Send follow-up email documenting call
- Avoid phrases that damage claims
Hours 12-24: Professional Help
- Research local roof consultants
- Verify credentials and local address
- Schedule professional inspection within 72 hours
- Request written inspection report
- Ask about attending adjuster meeting
- Confirm no-cost assessment terms
Next Steps
- Read complete insurance claim filing guide
- Organize all documentation in digital folder
- Create backup copies of all photos/videos
- Prepare questions for adjuster meeting
- Review policy coverage details
Get Expert Help for Your Colorado Springs Hail Claim
You’ve taken the critical first steps. Now ensure your documentation leads to maximum settlement.
Gerald Winik provides:
- Free professional roof inspection within 24-48 hours
- Carrier-specific documentation expertise
- Pikes Peak building code compliance assessment
- Attendance at insurance adjuster meetings
- Written reports insurance companies can’t dispute
- Zero upfront cost (contractor partnerships)
You need expert help if:
- Storm occurred in the last 30 days (time is critical)
- Your roof is 10+ years old (increased scrutiny)
- You have State Farm, Allstate, or USAA (challenging carriers)
- You’re concerned about depreciation or age restrictions
- You want unbiased assessment before filing
- Previous claims were denied or undervalued
Schedule your free inspection:
- Call or Text: (719) 210-8699
- Online: Schedule Free Inspection
- Emergency Contact: Available 7 days/week
Colorado Springs homeowners trust Gerald Winik:
- $2.3M+ recovered in claims
- 92% claim approval success rate
- 10+ years Colorado Springs experience
- Relationships with all major carriers
- Zero upfront cost
Don’t Wait—Every Hour Counts
Your roof damage won’t improve on its own. In Colorado Springs’ extreme climate, every day you wait:
- Evidence disappears (hail melts, marks fade)
- Secondary damage worsens (water intrusion begins)
- Claim approval rates drop (2.3% per day on average)
The difference between a denied claim and full replacement comes down to three factors:
- Speed – Acting within 24-72 hours of damage
- Documentation – Professional-quality evidence
- Expertise – Understanding carrier-specific requirements
You’ve now got the roadmap. The question is: will you act on it?
Just Experienced a Hailstorm?
Call now for free emergency assessment: (719) 210-8699
Available 7 days/week • Zero upfront cost • Colorado Springs local
About This Guide: Written by Gerald Winik, independent roof consultant serving Colorado Springs since 2013. Updated monthly with latest insurance carrier changes and Colorado storm patterns. Last updated: January 2026.
Next Steps: Once you’ve completed these immediate actions, read our comprehensive How to File a Roof Insurance Claim in Colorado Springs guide for the complete claims process.
