Storms can hit fast and hard, often leaving behind a trail of damage, especially to your roof. Whether it’s heavy winds, hail, torrential rain, or falling debris, your roof takes the brunt of the impact during extreme weather. After a storm passes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially if you notice missing shingles, leaks, or worse. But acting quickly and calmly can make the difference in preventing more damage and keeping repair costs under control. Here’s what to do if a storm damages your roof. If a storm damages your roof, don’t wait; search for roof repair near me to quickly connect with trusted local professionals who can assess and fix the issue before it gets worse.
1. Ensure Your Safety First
The first and most important step is to make sure you and your family are safe. If you suspect structural damage, downed power lines, or significant flooding, stay inside or leave the home altogether until it’s deemed safe to return. Don’t climb onto the roof yourself to check for damage, especially if it’s still raining or the roof is slick.
2. Visually Inspect the Damage (from the Ground)
Once the storm has cleared and it’s safe to go outside, perform a visual inspection of your roof from the ground. Look for:
- Missing, cracked, or curled shingles
- Pieces of roofing material in your yard
- Broken gutters or detached downspouts
- Exposed underlayment or roofing deck
- Water stains on your ceilings or walls inside the house
You don’t need to do a full inspection yourself; that’s what the professionals are for, but noting visible signs of damage can help you explain the situation when you call for help. For fast help when leaks or damage strike, search emergency roof repair near me to find local experts who can respond quickly and protect your home from further harm.
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3. Take Photos of the Damage
Before you make any repairs or clean up debris, take detailed photos of the damage. This documentation will be essential when filing a homeowner’s insurance claim. Try to take pictures of the damage from all angles, and don’t forget to photograph the inside of your home if there are any leaks or water spots on your ceiling or walls.
4. Call a Roofing Professional for an Emergency Inspection
Reach out to a local roofing contractor as soon as possible. Most will offer emergency inspections, especially after a storm. A qualified roofer will climb onto your roof, assess the damage, and give you an estimate for the necessary repairs.
Make sure to choose a local, licensed, and insured roofing company with good reviews. Unfortunately, storm damage often attracts “storm chasers,” out-of-town contractors who show up after a disaster but don’t stick around to back up their work. Stick with someone in your area who you can contact later if needed.
5. Make Temporary Repairs If Needed
If your roofer can’t come immediately and there are active leaks, you may need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. That might mean placing a tarp over the affected section of your roof or using buckets to collect water inside. Some roofing companies also offer emergency tarping services to keep your home protected until full repairs can be made.
6. File an Insurance Claim
Once you have documentation and an inspection report, contact your homeowner’s insurance provider to begin the claims process. Most policies cover storm damage, but coverage depends on the type of damage and how it happened.
When you call, be prepared to provide:
- Photos of the damage
- Notes about when the storm occurred
- The roofer’s written estimate or inspection report
Your insurance may send an adjuster to inspect the damage. It’s a good idea to have your roofing contractor present during the adjuster’s visit to ensure all issues are properly documented.
7. Review Your Coverage
Understanding what your insurance does and doesn’t cover can save you from unexpected out-of-pocket costs. Most policies cover:
- Wind and hail damage
- Falling objects like tree limbs
- Water damage caused by storm-related roof breaches
However, they typically won’t cover damage due to neglect or wear and tear. If your roof was already in poor condition, coverage could be limited. Review your policy or ask for clarification if needed.
8. Move Forward with Repairs
Once the insurance claim is approved, schedule the necessary repairs with your trusted roofing contractor. Depending on the extent of the damage, this might involve:
- Replacing shingles or flashing
- Repairing or replacing sections of the roof deck
- Installing new gutters or downspouts
- Addressing interior water damage
Your roofer should provide a clear timeline for the work and keep you informed throughout the process.
9. Prevent Future Damage
Once your roof is repaired, take steps to prevent future storm-related issues. This includes:
- Scheduling annual roof inspections
- Keeping your gutters clean
- Trimming overhanging branches
- Making minor repairs promptly
- Making sure your attic has good insulation and ventilation
Preventative maintenance helps your roof last longer and can help you avoid major storm damage down the road.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with storm damage to your roof can be stressful, but knowing what to do can make the process smoother and less overwhelming. Prioritize safety, document everything, work with professionals, and act quickly to prevent further damage. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—treating issues early helps keep your whole house protected.
If you’re in need of a roof inspection or emergency storm damage repair, don’t wait. Call a trusted local roofing expert who can guide you every step of the way, from inspection to insurance to full restoration.