The Dos and Don’ts of Post-storm Roof Assessing

By Cayden Wemple. 

A severe storm can wreak havoc on your roof, so here’s what to look out for in the event of roof damage. 

After a strong storm, a homeowner should be aware of how damaged their roof can be. Strong winds can rip shingles out of place, heavy rain can cause damage to gutters... you never know what mother nature can do to your roof, so here are some dos and don’ts of what you should do after a big storm. 

Do take as many pictures as you can of your roof, while safely on the ground. Make sure you capture broken shingles, dented gutters, and any other obvious damage you may find.  

Don’t get up on the roof to assess the damage yourself. Being up on a roof after a storm can be extremely dangerous as there are slipping hazards and the roof may not be completely stable anymore. Leave the assessment to an experienced professional. 

Don’t add any more weight to your roof. There may be structural damage that is not visible to the untrained eye and weighing down tarps with heavy items could cause more damage to your already fragile roof.   

Do use aerial imagery resources like Google Earth to capture photos of the pre-storm condition of your roof. . Having before and after photos can help you if you need to make an insurance claim for damage. 

Do contact a roofing contractor. Your best bet following the aftermath of a storm is to reach out to your local, licensed contractor as quickly as possible. A roofing contractor possesses the expertise and experience required to assess the storm damage accurately and provide necessary repairs or replacements. Acting promptly ensures that potential issues, such as leaks or structural damage, are addressed promptly, safeguarding your home or property from further harm.  

Don't delay in contacting a reliable roofing contractor to ensure your peace of mind and protect your investment. Be wary of door-to-door contractors from out of town looking to make a quick buck off you after a storm. If they promise to waive your deductible in the case of a claim, be very wary as that is illegal in many states.  

Don’t hire the first contractor that comes to you. Take the time to assess quotes.  

Do call your insurance company. A typical homeowner’s insurance policy in many cases will cover: 

• Snow damage 
• Wind damage  
• Hail damage  
• Fire damage 

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