Tornados and straight-line winds weren’t the only things wreaking havoc in the Kansas City area Monday evening. An incredible amount of hail dropped on homes and vehicles possibly causing countless amounts damage as well.
41 Action News viewers from Eudora, DeSoto, Maryville, Platte City, Shawnee and several others sent photos ranging from a quarter to half dollar size hail to what appears to be baseball or softball size hail.
Raytown State Farm agent Reggie Green told 41 Action News it’s been a few years since he’s seen such large amounts of hail in the area.
"We had a pretty significant storm on March 27, 2014 here in this area, but I don't think the hail was that big,” he said.
He also said if you have hail damage, do the obvious first.
"Make sure you cover up the damage with plastic or tarps to prevent any more damage from happening,” said Green.
Next, Green advised taking plenty of pictures, which will help speed up the claim process. And don’t let anyone go on your roof, especially before speaking with your insurance agent and adjusters.
Possibly the most important advice from Green was in regards to repairs.
"You're going to have roofers and contractors coming around. You just want to make sure that you ask to see their certificate of insurance,” he said. "And also be very cautious and ask questions if you get a bid that's substantially lower than other bids to repair the same work."
Green said if contractors push you to pay up front, be wary. The insurance agent said it’s also not unheard of for some contractors to offer to pay your insurance deductible in order to win the bid, which can be illegal.
Regarding your insurance coverage
Home insurance
- Make sure you have ‘dwelling coverage,’ which should cover any hail damage
- Add ‘Loss of Use’ coverage, which will include reimbursement for living expenses if you have to live elsewhere until your home is repaired
Auto insurance
- Make sure you have comprehensive coverage. NOTE: Not all supposedly ‘full’ coverage is comprehensive, meaning it may not cover hail damage
"If anybody uses the term 'full coverage,' just make sure you know what each coverage you have on that particular policy,” said Green.
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