Hail hit your roof? Do this first.
These steps come from the Texas Department of Insurance. Do them in this order, before you sign anything with anyone.
1. Take pictures and video
Photograph the damage. Don't throw anything away until your insurance adjuster tells you to.
2. Stop more damage
Make temporary repairs so it doesn't get worse: cover holes and broken windows to keep rain out, and remove standing water.
3. Call your insurance company
Report the damage to your agent or insurance company as soon as you can. Try to be there when the adjuster visits and point out all the damage.
4. Get at least three written bids
Three bids help you spot a price that is too high or too good to be true. Compare them with the adjuster's report before you settle the claim. Hire local, and check references.
5. Read every page before you sign
- Never sign a contract with blank spaces. They can be filled in later.
- Watch for "Homeowner agrees to the listed repairs for the value of insurance proceeds". That wording hands the contractor your whole insurance payment.
- Be wary of a large or full down payment. After a disaster, it is against the law for out-of-town contractors to ask for a down payment before they start.
- Keep a copy of everything you sign, including the warranty.
6. Know who to call
Texas Department of Insurance Help Line: 800-252-3439, Monday to Friday. To report a contractor scam: Texas Attorney General, 800-621-0508.
Questions homeowners ask
What should I do first after hail damages my roof?
Take pictures and video of the damage, make temporary repairs to stop more damage, and call your insurance agent or company as soon as possible. That is the Texas Department of Insurance's advice.
Can a roofer pay or waive my insurance deductible in Texas?
No. The Texas Department of Insurance says it is illegal for a contractor or roofer to offer to waive a deductible, promise a rebate for it, or work the deductible amount into a bid.
How many roofing bids should I get?
The Texas Department of Insurance says getting at least three bids helps you spot offers that are too high or too good to be true. Compare them with your adjuster's report before you settle the claim.
Should I hire a roofer who knocks on my door after a storm?
Be careful. The Texas Department of Insurance advises hiring local contractors, getting written bids and checking references. After a disaster it is against the law for out-of-town contractors to ask for a down payment before they start.
What should I never sign?
A contract with blank spaces, or one that says you agree to the repairs "for the value of insurance proceeds". The Texas Department of Insurance warns that wording gives the contractor your whole insurance payment.
Who can I call for help?
The Texas Department of Insurance Help Line is 800-252-3439, Monday to Friday. To report a contractor scam you can also call the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508.
Sources
- Texas Department of Insurance: Help after a storm
- Texas Department of Insurance: How to avoid contracting scams
- Texas Department of Insurance: New state law cracks down on roof scams
This is general information, not legal advice. Checked Sep 25, 2026.