On the evening of August 27, 2024, Woodstock, IL, and the surrounding areas were hit by severe storms that caused significant damage, primarily due to baseball-sized hail and intense flash flooding. Hailstones, some as large as 2.5 inches in diameter, wreaked havoc on roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles throughout the region. These storms were also accompanied by high winds, with gusts reaching up to 70 mph, which further exacerbated the damage. The combination of large hail and powerful winds led to widespread destruction, making insurance claims particularly complex due to the variety of damages involved.
In Woodstock and nearby areas, both residential and commercial properties suffered extensive structural damage, including dented metal roofs, shattered windows, and torn siding. Additionally, the storms downed trees and power lines, causing power outages and blocked roads. Given the scale of the damage, it’s crucial for property owners to have their buildings thoroughly inspected by professionals who understand the complexities of storm-related damage, particularly when dealing with different types of building materials.
For those affected, working with an experienced adjuster who specializes in storm damage is essential to ensure that all damages are properly documented and that insurance claims are handled efficiently.
What Type of Damage Can Hail Cause?
Hail of all sizes can cause property damage. According to the NOAA, 1-inch hail can travel between 9 and 25 MPH, while 2-inch hail can reach speeds of up to 40 MPH. Storms producing hail are typically accompanied by high winds and heavy rainfall, resulting in multiple types of damage to buildings. This adds complexity to insurance claims and should be managed by someone who understands how to properly evaluate and document the damage to prove the loss.
It’s important to note that even "smaller" hail can still impact your property. Hail damage varies depending on the building materials affected, making it crucial to have someone inspect the damage who understands how to accurately assess the specific materials on your property. For example, the assessment of commercial roofing materials like TPO, EPDM, or metal roofing differs significantly from that of typical residential materials like asphalt shingles.
If your property has been impacted by hail, it’s essential to ensure that your public adjuster, contractor, or insurance-provided adjuster specializes in the type of property and materials involved.
Should I File an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage?
If your property is struck by hail, it’s wise to have a professional assess the damage. A thorough inspection and damage evaluation can help you identify issues before filing a potentially unnecessary claim. When you're ready to file, having all the relevant information is crucial for setting the right expectations with your insurance carrier. This approach ensures that the appropriate adjuster is assigned to your claim, setting the stage for a smoother, faster process. Remember, it’s your responsibility to prove that your property has sustained damage!
What is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works on behalf of the policyholder to help navigate the insurance claims process. They are experts in evaluating property damage and assessing the cost of repairs or replacements. They also assist policyholders in understanding their insurance policy and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure a fair settlement. A public adjuster is responsible for building a claims package, providing evidence to the insurance company detailing the damages, and advocating on the property owner’s behalf.
Why Choose Eco Shield Public Adjusters?
Our team is comprised of an unmatched investigations team of certified Level 3 Xactimate estimators and Public Adjusters with experience handling some of the most complex insurance claims. Each team member is committed to putting people first, ensuring every question is answered, and maintaining an open line of communication throughout the process. We value transparency, ensuring that all of our clients know exactly what to expect and are involved in any decisions or issues that may arise. Our team prides itself on producing a proven work product based on our fanatical attention to detail and data-driven results. This allows our work to speak for itself, minimizing many carrier arguments from the beginning of the claim process to a quick and accurate settlement.