After a strong storm it is natural to want to check the roof straight away. Safety comes first: damage can be hard to see, and a roof can be unstable or slippery after high winds and rain.
Right after the storm
- Stay off the roof. Look from the ground or from a window.
- Keep clear of fallen power lines and report them to your power company.
- Check inside for leaks, wet patches on ceilings and water in the attic. Put buckets under drips and move valuables out of the way.
- Take photos of any damage you can see safely, inside and outside, with the date.
Limit further damage
If water is coming in, a roofer can cover the damaged area with an emergency tarp until a proper repair can be made. Keep receipts for any emergency work: insurers often ask for them.
Insurance claims
- Read your policy or call your insurer to find out how to report the damage and what they need from you.
- Ask a roofer for an inspection and a written report with photos of the damage.
- Your insurer may send an adjuster. Your roofer can meet them on site to point out the damage.
- Your insurer decides what the policy covers, so wait for their answer before agreeing to major work.
Be careful with contractors who knock on doors after a storm and ask for large payments up front. Choose a local company, check their license and insurance, and get a written quote before any work starts.