Is It Hail Damage or Normal Wear?

After a significant hail event, many Edmonton homeowners aren’t sure if what they’re seeing is actually hail damage or just normal aging. True hail damage to vinyl siding creates characteristic patterns: circular dents, cracks, or punctures, often with a consistent spacing that matches the hailstone size. You may also notice damage to window screens, gutters, and soft metal trim — these are excellent supporting evidence for your claim.

Step 1: Document Everything Immediately

Before anything else, photograph your home from all four sides. Get close-ups of individual impacts — include a coin or ruler for scale. Photograph damaged gutters, downspouts, and fascia as well. Note the date and check Environment Canada’s historical weather data to confirm the hail event officially.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurer promptly. Most policies have a window for reporting weather-related damage. Explain clearly that you’ve experienced hail damage and want to open a claim. Ask for your claim number and the name of your assigned adjuster.

Step 3: Get a Professional Siding Assessment

Before your adjuster visits, have a qualified siding contractor assess the damage and provide a written estimate. This gives you an independent reference point for the adjuster’s assessment. At Inspire Innovations, we provide detailed damage reports at no charge for insurance purposes.

Step 4: The Adjuster Visit

Walk the property with your adjuster. Point out all areas of damage — including areas that may be less obvious. If the adjuster’s estimate seems low, you have the right to request a second opinion or hire a public adjuster to represent your interests.

Step 5: Understanding Your Settlement

Most Alberta home insurance policies cover hail damage to siding at actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV), minus your deductible. RCV coverage pays for full replacement without depreciation — make sure you know which you have.

Contact us if you’ve experienced hail damage. We work directly with insurance adjusters and can handle the documentation process on your behalf.