Hail season in Colorado runs from mid-April through mid-September. While many storms produce just small pebbles, still others can drop golf ball and baseball-size hail (in Denver, the largest stone to date was a whopping 5.25 inches in diameter) Remaining vigilant with maintenance can help minimize any damage you may sustain during one of the many hail storms Coloradoans are likely to experience each year. Here are a few things you can do this hail season:
Proactive Tips for Protecting Your Property from Hail
- Inspect and maintain your roof, gutters and downspouts – An already damaged roof will not stand up well to another pummeling. Have your roof inspected regularly and take care of any damaged or vulnerable areas. Be sure also to clean out gutters and ensure downspouts are draining out and away from your home.
- Protect outdoor furniture and equipment – You don’t need to store outdoor equipment all the time, but you should have a place where they can go quickly if a storm is on the horizon. And if they can’t be covered or protected, at least try to anchor them down as many storms also come with strong winds and you don’t want any furniture blowing into the house and potentially breaking a window.
- Consider your garden – A strong hailstorm will damage your trees and shrubs; trimming trees and shrubs beforehand will reduce damage from hail and wind, and consider moving plants indoors or under a shelter before hail comes through.
- Protect your vehicles – If you can’t park in a garage, research potential parking options so you can get your vehicles under cover prior to a storm.
- Review your insurance policy – This is a big one. Some insurance companies have added policy exclusions to limit or deny coverage on hail claims. Others also require a separate wind and hail deductible before coverage kicks in. Read through your policy, ask questions, and make sure you have adequate home and auto coverage to protect your property during a hail storm. If you have questions about your policy or insurance law in Colorado, contact us at KK&P Law Firm.
- Pay attention to the weather – Lastly, stay attuned to local forecasts and consider signing up for weather alerts. Weather patterns can change quickly. If a storm is coming, you’ll want to be able to act fast to protect your vehicle, any exposed property that can be sheltered, and yourself!
Taking proactive steps to protect your property during hail season can save you from significant damage and costly repairs, but if you do sustain hail damage, take these steps and call us at Kandell, Kandell & Petrie Law Firm for help navigating the insurance claims process in Colorado.
