A storm just stripped shingles off your roof, and the adrenaline is telling you to climb up there right now. Don't. The smart moves in the first 48 hours protect both your home and your insurance claim — here's the order to do them in.
1. Stay safe and assess from the ground
Never climb onto a wet, storm-damaged roof, and watch for downed power lines and broken glass. From the ground (binoculars help), look for missing, cracked, curled or lifted shingles, dented metal, and debris. Inside, check ceilings and the attic for water stains, drips or daylight.
2. Document everything
Before anything is touched or cleaned up, take clear photos and video of all the damage — roof, interior stains, fallen limbs, scattered shingles, and any damaged belongings. Note the date and time of the storm. This documentation is the backbone of your insurance claim.
3. Stop the water (temporarily)
If water is getting in, contain it: move belongings, put down buckets, and place a tarp over the affected area only if it's safe to do so. For anything beyond a small, reachable area, get a professional roof tarp installed — a proper tarp won't blow off and won't funnel water inside, which a rushed DIY one often does.
4. File your insurance claim
Contact your insurer promptly. Most policies require you to mitigate further damage (hence the tarp) and to report damage in a timely way. Provide your photos, keep receipts for any emergency expenses, and write down claim numbers and adjuster contacts.
5. Get an independent inspection
Have a reputable local roofer inspect the roof — including the parts you can't see. Storm damage frequently goes deeper than missing shingles: water can reach the underlayment and sheathing, and lifted shingles may have broken seals even if they're still in place. Knowing the signs of failing sheathing helps you ask the right questions.
6. Beware of storm chasers
After major storms, out-of-town "storm chaser" crews appear offering instant repairs and pressure to sign on the spot. Protect yourself:
- Use licensed, insured, local roofers with a track record you can verify
- Never pay in full upfront
- Be wary of anyone who offers to "waive your deductible" (often illegal)
- Get the full scope and price in writing before work starts
Stay safe → document → stop the water (tarp) → file the claim → get an honest inspection → hire a trusted local roofer. Rushing straight to repairs can cost you on the claim and leave hidden damage unaddressed.
Dealing with storm damage right now? Reach out for emergency tarping and a documented inspection you can hand straight to your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first after a storm damages my roof?
Stay safe and assess from the ground (never climb a wet, damaged roof), then document all the damage with photos and video before anything is moved or cleaned up. That documentation supports your insurance claim.
Should I get on my roof after a storm?
No. Storm-damaged roofs are slippery and structurally unreliable, and there may be downed power lines nearby. Assess from the ground and leave roof access to professionals with fall protection.
Will insurance cover storm-damaged shingles?
Storm damage is typically covered by homeowner policies, but you usually must report it promptly and take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, such as tarping. Document everything and check your specific policy and deductible.
How do I avoid storm-chaser roofing scams?
Hire licensed, insured local roofers you can verify, never pay in full upfront, get the scope and price in writing, and be suspicious of anyone pressuring you to sign immediately or offering to waive your deductible.
BCG Roofing Services — practical roofing guides and professional repair, rejuvenation and storm-damage services across Sarasota, Bradenton & Southwest Florida. Questions about your roof? Get a free inspection.
