Severe weather is a reality for homeowners and business owners across Nebraska. From spring supercells to late-summer hailstorms, storms moving across the Plains can produce hail large enough to cause significant property damage in just minutes.
While not every hailstone is record-breaking, hail commonly ranges from ½ inch to 2+ inches in Nebraska storms, and it can strike roofs, siding, windows, and gutters at speeds exceeding 40–70 mph depending on storm conditions. That impact is essentially like rocks being thrown at your property.
If a storm has recently moved through your area, knowing what to do immediately after hail hits your home or business can help protect your property and make the insurance process smoother.
Below are the most important steps Nebraska property owners should take after a hailstorm.
1. Make Safety the First Priority
Before inspecting anything, make sure everyone inside your home or business is safe.
After severe weather passes:
-
Check on family members, employees, and pets
-
Watch for broken glass from windows or skylights
-
Be cautious of exposed nails, damaged roofing materials, or fallen debris
-
Avoid areas where ceilings may be leaking or sagging
If you notice structural damage or major leaks, it may be safest to temporarily avoid those areas until repairs can be made.
Safety should always come before property inspection.
2. Document Any Visible Storm Damage
Once it’s safe, start documenting what you can see from the ground.
Take clear photos and videos of any damage such as:
-
Dented gutters or downspouts
-
Damaged siding
-
Broken windows or screens
-
Shingle debris in the yard
-
Fallen tree limbs
-
Roof granules collecting near downspouts
It’s also helpful to note:
-
The date and time of the storm
-
How long the storm lasted
-
Any hail size reports in your area
This documentation can be extremely helpful when filing an insurance claim.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
If you suspect hail damage, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Many Nebraska homeowners policies cover hail damage, but the process often requires:
-
Documentation of damage
-
A professional inspection
-
An adjuster evaluation
Starting your claim early helps prevent delays and ensures your property is properly assessed.
4. Prevent Additional Damage
After severe weather, it’s important to limit further damage to your home or building.
This may include:
-
Covering broken windows
-
Removing loose debris around your property
-
Placing temporary coverings over damaged areas
-
Scheduling emergency roof tarping if leaks are present
Temporary mitigation steps can help protect your interior from water intrusion and additional storm damage.
Be sure to save receipts and document any temporary repairs, as insurance companies may reimburse these costs.
5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Hail damage isn’t always obvious from the ground. In many cases, roof damage can go unnoticed for months, eventually leading to leaks, mold, or structural issues.
A professional roof inspection can identify hidden damage such as:
-
Bruised or cracked asphalt shingles
-
Granule loss from hail impact
-
Damaged flashing around vents and chimneys
-
Compromised roofing seals
-
Impact damage to metal roofing systems
For both homes and commercial buildings in Nebraska, a professional inspection ensures nothing is overlooked.
Why Hail Damage Inspections Matter in Nebraska
Nebraska consistently ranks among the top states for hail claims each year. Even small hailstones can weaken roofing materials, reducing the lifespan of your roof.
Catching damage early can help:
-
Prevent costly water damage
-
Extend the life of your roof
-
Ensure insurance claims are properly documented
-
Protect the value of your home or commercial property
Local Help When Nebraska Storms Hit
When severe weather moves through the region, local experience matters. Working with a Nebraska roofing contractor who understands storm damage and insurance documentation can make the process much easier.
At Stonebrook Exterior, our team helps homeowners and business owners across Nebraska with:
-
Storm damage roof inspections
-
Emergency roof tarping
-
Hail damage assessments
-
Insurance-ready documentation
-
Residential and commercial roof repairs
If a recent storm passed through your area and you’re unsure about the condition of your roof, a professional inspection can provide peace of mind.
Need a Roof Inspection After the Storm?
If your home or business may have been impacted by hail or severe weather, Stonebrook Exterior is here to help Nebraska property owners protect their roofs and buildings.
📞 402-438-5559
🌐 https://stonebrookexterior.com/quote/

Hailstorm Recovery Steps for Home & Business Owners

