1. Move the vehicle to safe cover
After conditions are safe, move the vehicle under cover to prevent additional exposure. Do not enter flooded roads, damaged structures, or areas with downed power lines.
2. Record the storm details
Write down the date, time window, address or parking location, and whether the vehicle was under partial cover. Save relevant weather alerts or photographs.
3. Photograph the vehicle before cleaning or repair
Capture all four corners, roof line, hood, deck lid, glass, trim, and close-ups in reflected light. Photos help establish condition but rarely reveal the full dent count.
4. Check the insurance policy and deductible
Review comprehensive coverage and the deductible. Contact the carrier when the apparent damage justifies a claim or when you need policy-specific guidance.
5. Schedule a professional inspection
A clean vehicle under specialized lighting provides a much more reliable assessment. Ask whether the repairer handles both PDR and conventional repair areas.
6. Do not choose a repair path based only on the first photo estimate
Insurer photo estimates can be an initial step, not necessarily the final repair scope. Additional necessary operations may require a supplement.
7. Keep documents together
Maintain the claim number, adjuster contact, estimates, repair authorization, supplement approvals, parts notes, and warranty documents.