Hail damage can seem quite obvious on the outside of properties. Damaged roofs, smashed windows, and dented doors are all easy to see. However, damage can go much deeper than what’s on the surface. Managed repair providers (MRPs) leverage advanced technology to look further and assess potential structural damage, water intrusion, and other hail damage restoration concerns.

With the right technology, repairs can be completed in a much shorter timescale, bringing benefits to both property owners and their insurers, including by offering:

Advanced Damage Assessment Tools

Hail is a rising concern for property owners across the United States. In 2023, Texas experienced 1,123 “major hail events,” referring to storms where the hailstones were at least one inch in diameter. Other states experiencing alarming hailstorms included Missouri, Colorado, and Nebraska. With some insurers paying out over $3.5 billion in hail damage claims, it’s clear that assessing, repairing, and mitigating hail damage is essential for all stakeholders.

MRPs use drones to quickly and accurately assess hail damage in hard-to-reach zones such as roofs. Thermal imaging can see if structural damage has occurred and allow hail damage restoration professionals to plan their next steps. Moisture meters are another essential damage assessment tool, highlighting where water damage has seeped into wood, drywall, and other construction materials. Using meters to create accurate moisture maps empowers contractors to plan repairs and provide timescales to property owners and insurers.

Leveraging technology in this way means assessments are more precise, leading to more accurate cost estimates and efficient hail damage restoration processes.

Digital Documentation and Reporting

Drones, moisture meters, and other tools are all digitally connected. Restoration professionals can quickly record and document readings, photos, and other data throughout the project, creating transparency and accountability.

Reporting on progress in real-time keeps property owners informed, improving their experience. Digital documentation and reporting are essential for enhanced communication and coordination between all relevant parties: contractors, property owners, and insurers.

Project Management Software

MRPs also leverage tech by providing specialized software to streamline job scheduling, coordination, and progress tracking.

Efficient project management leads to faster and higher-quality repairs. Plus, it can aid in resource management, helping to keep costs as low as possible.

Customer Portals and Communication

MRP platforms may have separate login portals for owners and insurers, so each can view the documentation that’s relevant to their interests. Property owners get to see real-time updates and understand how their hail damage restoration projects are progressing. This is a great way to enhance client satisfaction and improve the reputation of both contractors and insurers.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Both contractors and MRPs make good use of advanced data analytics, including AI-powered tools. Pattern recognition helps technicians understand the likelihood of damage associated with particular moisture maps, for example. They can set aside the right budget and then use human problem-solving skills to handle any challenges that arise throughout the restoration process.

A continuous stream of data also provides insights that allow MRPs to continuously improve the services provided to clients. Understanding where a repair took longer than expected or went outside the allocated budget can help streamline those processes for future jobs.

The most trusted MRPs are leveraging emerging technologies to improve services for property owners, contractors, and insurers. When hail damage restoration can be completed to a high standard in a shorter space of time, everyone benefits. Contact Accuserve to learn more.