What to Do After Hail or Wind Impacts your Car or Home

If your car was hit: 5 next steps after hail or wind damage

1. Take photos before you move it. Snap wide shots and close-ups of every dent, crack, broken mirror and window — including the roof, hood and trunk.

2. Check your auto insurance. Hail and wind damage is usually covered under a comprehensive policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, call your insurer to start a claim. If you only have liability coverage, repairs may be your responsibility. Ask your insurance company about:

   • Your comprehensive deductible
   • Preferred repair shops in your area
   • How a claim could affect your premium

3. Get an estimate from a shop you trust. Your insurer may send an adjuster or point you to a preferred repair facility. You can also get your own estimate. For hail dents (when paint isn't broken), paintless dent repair is often a cost-effective option.

4. Take your time with a settlement. If your car is declared a total loss, review the offer and compare it to your car's current market value (for example, using Kelley Blue Book) before you agree.

5. If you need a replacement vehicle, know your options. If your car is totaled and you owe more than it's worth, find out if you have gap coverage that can help cover the difference. And when you're ready for your next vehicle, UW Credit Union can help with competitive auto loan rates and gap coverage so you can get back on the road with a payment that fits.

If your home was hit: 6 next steps after hail or wind damage

1. Document everything. Take photos and videos before anything is moved, covered or repaired. Get wide shots and close-ups of your roof, siding, gutters, windows and any damaged belongings.

2. Prevent more damage (if it's safe). If a window is broken or part of your roof is exposed, cover it temporarily with a tarp or boards. Save receipts — supply costs may be reimbursable.

3. Call your homeowners insurance company. Report the damage as soon as you can and ask when an adjuster can take a look.

   Have this ready:

   • Date and time of the storm
   • A quick description of the damage
   • Photos and videos
   • Ask about your deductible, coverage limits and claim timeline.

4. Get a few estimates. After the adjuster's visit, get 2–3 estimates from licensed, reputable local contractors. Be cautious with door-to-door offers after a storm — unfortunately, scams do happen. Look for local references, verified credentials and solid reviews.

5. Understand your settlement. Review your payout carefully and make sure it covers the full scope of the damage. If something doesn't look right, ask questions and see if you can negotiate or dispute the amount. If needed, a public adjuster can help advocate for you.

6. Know your backup plan. If your deductible is higher than expected, or repairs go beyond coverage, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or personal loan may help you cover costs and keep your budget on track.

If you'd like to talk it through, our loan experts can help you compare options. Schedule an appointment to chat in person, by phone or on video.

We're here when you need us

Storm damage is hard enough — money worries shouldn't make it harder. If you'd like help thinking through next steps, or you need a way to cover repair costs, UW Credit Union is here to help you move forward.