Hail Damage in Calgary: What to Do When Your Home Gets Hit
Calgary sits in Canada’s “Hailstorm Alley” — we average multiple significant hail events every summer. If your home has been hit, this guide walks you through what to do, how to file an insurance claim, and what to expect from the restoration process.
Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately
As soon as it’s safe to go outside:
- Photograph every side of your house
- Photograph your roof (ground-level shots from multiple angles)
- Check siding for dents, cracks, or punctures
- Check windows for broken glass or frame damage
- Document eavestroughs, soffit, and fascia damage
- Check skylights, satellite dishes, air conditioners
- Take photos of the hail itself (with a ruler or coin for scale)
- Save weather alerts and news coverage of the storm (date stamping)
Step 2: File Your Insurance Claim
Most insurance policies require you to file within 30-90 days of the event. Don’t wait.
When you call your insurance provider:
- Report the date of the hail event
- Describe the damage you’ve observed
- Get your claim number
- Ask what’s covered (most policies cover roof, siding, eavestroughs, windows, HVAC units)
- Ask about your deductible
- Schedule the insurance adjuster’s visit
Step 3: Get a Professional Inspection
Before the adjuster arrives (or in parallel), have a reputable contractor inspect your home. A professional inspection:
- Documents ALL damage (adjusters can miss things)
- Gives you a detailed scope of work
- Advocates for the full replacement when warranted
- Identifies upgrades that insurance might cover
Step 4: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
Have your contractor present during the adjuster’s inspection if possible. They can speak the same technical language and advocate for complete repairs.
After inspection, the adjuster provides an estimate. This isn’t always the final payout — reputable contractors can often negotiate supplementals for additional damage.
Step 5: Choose Your Contractor
Be cautious of “storm chaser” contractors who arrive in Calgary after major hail events. Look for:
- Local Calgary business with physical address
- Active BBB profile and reviews
- Proper insurance and WCB coverage
- Detailed written estimates
- Willingness to work directly with your insurance company
- Written warranty on workmanship
Step 6: The Restoration Process
Typical hail restoration timeline:
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Insurance approval | 2-4 weeks |
| Contractor scheduling | 2-8 weeks (peak season) |
| Roof replacement | 1-3 days |
| Siding replacement | 1-2 weeks |
| Window replacement | 1-3 days |
| Eavestroughs/soffit/fascia | 1-3 days |
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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.
Upgrade Opportunities During Restoration
While you’re replacing anyway, consider:
- Class 4 impact-resistant shingles — better hail performance, insurance discounts
- James Hardie fiber cement siding — harder to damage than vinyl
- Triple-pane impact windows — Calgary-appropriate upgrade
- Leaf guards on eavestroughs — while they’re off anyway
Common Insurance Questions
Will my premium go up after a hail claim?
Hail is an “act of God” — most Calgary insurers don’t raise rates for weather claims. Always confirm with your provider.
What if the adjuster’s estimate seems low?
Your contractor can file a supplemental for additional damage found during work. This is normal.
Can I get a discount for hail-resistant upgrades?
Yes — many Calgary insurers offer 10-25% discounts for Class 4 roofing.
Hit by Hail? Let’s Help
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