In Alberta, hail damage isn’t rare — it’s expected. And when it hits, it often affects more than just your roof. Siding, soffits, windows, garage doors, fences, and more can all be compromised in a single storm. The key to a smooth recovery? Knowing what to do right away.
At Ritz Exteriors, we’ve supported hundreds of Alberta homeowners through their insurance repairs — from the first photo to the final inspection. Let us walk you through it.
Step 1: Assess and Document the Damage
Before you clean up or call your provider, document everything. Take clear photos and videos of:
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Shingles – look for dents, cracks, or granule loss
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Siding – check for punctures, warping, or fractures (especially aluminum or vinyl)
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Garage doors – note dents, buckling, or scratched finishes
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Front/exterior doors and trim – check for impact damage or water staining
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Fencing – look for snapped boards, leaning posts, or hail bruising
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Windows, vents, and skylights – broken glass, screen damage, or cracks
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Gutters, fascia, and soffits – inspect for dents, sagging, or detachment
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Interior ceilings or attic – spot water stains or leaks that could signal roof failure
Pro tip: Include wide shots for context and close-ups for clarity. Screenshot the weather radar or Environment Canada alert from the storm date — it helps validate your timeline.
Step 2: Understand What’s in Your Insurance Policy
While only your insurer can walk you through your specific coverage, it helps to know what to ask about:
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Deductible: What amount will come out of your pocket before coverage kicks in?
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Depreciation: Are you covered for full replacement cost, or actual cash value (ACV)?
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Cosmetic vs. functional damage: Does your policy cover visual hail damage (like metal dings) or only structural issues?
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Matching materials: Will your provider pay to replace undamaged areas to match new materials (e.g., full siding wall instead of patchwork)?
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Claim deadline: How soon do you need to report the storm? Some companies allow 90 days — others less.
Pro tip: Ask your insurer to send you a copy of your policy and a claims process outline for your records.
Step 3: File Your Claim Promptly
Call your insurance company and file your claim as soon as you’re able. Provide:
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Your policy number
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The date and time of the storm
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A brief overview of the damage
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Mention that you’ve taken photos/videos and are arranging a contractor quote
You’ll be assigned a claims adjuster who will schedule a site visit. Be polite, thorough, and take notes on all conversations.
Step 4: Get an Independent Contractor Estimate (Before the Adjuster Visit)
This is one of the most important steps — and where many homeowners go wrong.
While insurance adjusters work hard to be fair, they represent the insurance company, not you. Their goal is to assess damage and cost based on general industry averages — but they don’t always catch everything, and often underestimate material upgrades, regional pricing, or long-term repair needs.
Here’s why getting a professional quote from Ritz Exteriors matters:
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We work for you, not your insurance company
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We catch subtle damage adjusters may overlook (hail impacts on soft metals, warped flashing, underlay exposure)
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We provide detailed photo reports and written scopes that make your case clear
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We use current Alberta market rates, not outdated averages, so your claim is accurate and up to date
Pro tip: Get the contractor’s estimate before the adjuster arrives so you’re armed with evidence and pricing you can compare.
Step 5: Be Present for the Adjuster’s Inspection (and Invite Us Too)
You don’t need to go through this alone. You can request that your contractor be present for the adjuster’s visit — and we highly recommend it.
When Ritz Exteriors is there:
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We walk the adjuster through every area of damage, ensuring nothing is overlooked
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We explain material and labour requirements clearly, including underlayment, vents, or custom features
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We help prevent quick-fix approvals that ignore long-term integrity
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We advocate for you professionally — you stay informed, but never have to argue or push
Pro tip: Adjusters are more thorough when they know a contractor is involved. We speak their language — and that matters.
Step 6: Review the Claim Settlement Carefully
Once the adjuster submits their report, your insurance provider will issue a scope of work and coverage summary. This outlines:
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What’s approved
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What’s excluded
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What they’re holding back as depreciation (if any)
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What’s required from you before they release final funds
Before signing off, compare their scope with your contractor’s quote. If anything’s missing — such as full-wall siding replacement, drip edge, or code upgrades — we’ll help you identify those gaps so you can request a supplement.
Why Alberta Homeowners Choose Ritz Exteriors
We’ve been on the front lines of hail recovery in Calgary, Edmonton, and across Alberta. Our team brings:
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20+ years of storm restoration expertise
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A deep understanding of insurance processes
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A reputation for clear communication and professional project execution
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A commitment to using quality, long-lasting materials built for Alberta’s extremes
We don’t “work the system” — we make sure it works for you.
Final Thoughts
When hail hits, timing is everything — but so is having the right people on your side. With proper documentation, a knowledgeable contractor, and a clear strategy, your home can be restored fully, safely, and with the coverage you deserve.
Think you might have storm damage? Don’t wait.
📞 [Contact Ritz Exteriors Today] from Ritz Exteriors today — and take the first step toward protecting your home and peace of mind.
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