When a powerful storm rolls through your area, your first priority is staying safe. But once the skies clear, it’s time to turn your attention to your home—especially your roof. High winds, heavy rain, hail, and flying debris can all cause serious damage to your roofing system, often leading to costly repairs if not addressed quickly.
Knowing what to do after a storm can make all the difference in protecting your home and your wallet. In this post, we’ll cover the essential steps to take after a storm to mitigate roof damage, speed up recovery, and help you navigate the insurance process.
1. Prioritize Safety First
Before you do anything, make sure your property is safe to inspect. Watch out for:
- Downed power lines
- Broken glass
- Flooded areas
- Loose or hanging roofing materials
Pro Tip: Don’t climb onto your roof. It’s safer and more effective to call a professional for a detailed inspection.
2. Perform a Visual Ground-Level Inspection
Once it’s safe to step outside, do a quick walk-around of your home. Look for:
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Dented gutters or flashing
- Debris buildup or fallen branches on the roof
- Water stains or leaks in your attic or ceiling
Take clear photos of any visible damage. This documentation will be valuable for your insurance claim and for working with a roofing contractor.
3. Prevent Further Damage Immediately
If you notice active leaks or major damage:
- Use buckets or tarps to contain water inside
- Place plastic sheeting or temporary covers over exposed roof areas (if safe to do so)
- Remove valuable items from areas prone to leaks
Quick action can prevent minor damage from becoming a major disaster.
4. Contact a Local Roofing Professional for Inspection
Hiring a trusted roofing contractor is one of the most important steps after a storm. A certified roofer will:
- Conduct a thorough roof inspection
- Identify both obvious and hidden damage
- Provide a written report with photos
- Recommend the best course of action
Look for a roofer with storm damage repair experience and positive local reviews. At Belman’s Roofing, for example, we specialize in helping homeowners recover quickly and safely after severe weather events.
5. File Your Insurance Claim Promptly
If your roof has sustained significant damage, don’t wait—contact your insurance company right away. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Provide documentation (photos, inspection report)
- File a claim with your policy number and details of the damage
- Schedule an appointment with your insurance adjuster
Your roofing contractor can often meet with the adjuster to ensure all damage is properly accounted for.
6. Schedule Roof Repairs or Replacement
Once your insurance claim is approved, schedule your repairs or roof replacement promptly to prevent further issues like water intrusion, mold, or structural damage.
Choose quality over speed. Working with a reliable contractor ensures that repairs are done right the first time, using durable materials and craftsmanship that will stand up to future storms.
7. Plan for the Future
After your repairs are complete, ask your roofing professional about long-term solutions to protect your home, such as:
- Impact-resistant roofing materials
- Improved drainage or gutter systems
- Regular roof maintenance and inspections
Storms may be unpredictable, but being prepared can reduce stress and costs in the long run.
Conclusion: Act Fast, Stay Protected
After a storm, time is of the essence. Taking the right steps immediately can save you from bigger headaches down the road. By performing a basic inspection, contacting professionals, and filing insurance claims quickly, you can restore your home—and your peace of mind.
Need post-storm roofing help?
The experts at Belman’s Roofing are here to guide you every step of the way, from inspection to repair. We work with homeowners and insurance companies to ensure a smooth, stress-free recovery process.
