If Front Range hail storms — among the most frequent in the US or high-altitude wind events and chinook winds just hit your home, the decisions you make in the next 24 hours will determine how smoothly your insurance claim goes — and whether you get a fair payout. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, step by step.
Average roof replacement cost in Denver, CO: $10,000–$22,000 depending on material, size, and damage extent. Your insurance deductible will apply.
Step-by-Step: What to Do After Storm Damage in Denver, CO
Stay safe — do not go on the roof
After a storm, roofs can be structurally compromised, slippery, and dangerous. Document visible damage from the ground using your phone. Take photos and video of any missing shingles, dented gutters, or debris.
Document everything before cleanup
Photograph every area of visible damage — exterior and interior. Check your attic for water intrusion. Time-stamp your photos. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim. Do not move or discard any debris until after the adjuster visits.
Apply emergency tarping if needed
If there is active water intrusion through the roof, install a temporary tarp to prevent further interior damage. Most insurance policies cover emergency tarping costs. Keep all receipts.
Call your insurance company
File your claim as soon as possible. Colorado law (HB 21-1271) gives homeowners 2 years to file a claim after a hail storm. Insurers cannot cancel policies solely due to hail claims. Have your documentation ready when you call. Ask for the claim number and the adjuster's contact information.
Get a professional inspection from a licensed roofer
Before or alongside the insurance adjuster's visit, have a licensed Colorado roofer inspect the damage. They can identify damage the adjuster might miss and provide a written estimate. Verify your roofer is licensed with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
Review the adjuster's estimate carefully
Compare the insurance adjuster's estimate against the contractor's estimate line by line. If they differ significantly, you have the right to request a re-inspection or hire a public adjuster. Do not accept a settlement that doesn't cover the full scope of repairs.
What Makes Denver, CO Storm Damage Different
Denver sits in the US Hail Alley. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are strongly recommended and may qualify you for an insurance premium discount of 20–30%.
Red Flags to Watch For
⚠️ Storm chasers are common after major weather events in Denver, CO. Never sign a contract with a roofer who knocks on your door unsolicited, pressures you to sign immediately, or offers to "waive your deductible." Deductible waiving is insurance fraud in Colorado.
- Roofers who demand full payment before starting work
- No local business address or Colorado license
- Pressure to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) before speaking with your insurer
- Quotes provided verbally with nothing in writing
- Out-of-state plates and no verifiable local references
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover hail damage to roofs in Denver CO?
Yes. Colorado law protects homeowners from insurers raising rates or canceling policies due to hail claims. Most policies cover hail damage minus your deductible. Some policies now include a separate hail deductible — check your policy.
How long do I have to file a hail damage claim in Colorado?
Colorado law HB 21-1271 gives homeowners 2 years from the date of a hail or wind storm to file a property damage claim. This is longer than the previous 1-year limit.
What is a Class 4 shingle and should I get one in Denver?
A Class 4 impact-resistant shingle is the highest rating for hail resistance. In Denver, where hail is extremely common, Class 4 shingles can reduce insurance premiums by 20–30% and significantly extend the life of your roof.
Find a Verified Roofer in Denver, CO
Licensed, insured roofing contractors with real reviews and contact info.
Find Denver, CO Roofers →