What Should I Do When A Storm Damages My Roof?
Florida storms can unleash sudden, catastrophic damage to your home, especially your roof. When high winds, hail, or heavy rain compromise your roofing system, acting immediately and strategically is the key to protecting your property and maximizing your insurance payout. Below is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on what to do when your roof suffers storm damage.
Inspect Your Property Safely After the Storm
After the storm passes, your first priority is safety. Before doing anything else, make sure it is safe to exit your home.
Watch for:
- Downed power lines
- Fallen tree limbs
- Loose roofing materials
- Structural instability
If your roof damage is severe and you’re unsure about the structural safety of your home, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
Document the Roof Damage Thoroughly
Once it is safe to do so, document everything.
Your insurance company will require detailed evidence to validate your claim. Use your smartphone or camera to take:
- Wide shots of your entire roof
- Close-ups of shingles, gutters, flashings, and other damaged areas
- Photos of interior leaks, such as wet ceilings or attic water intrusion
- Images of storm-related debris (branches, tiles, metal, etc.) on the roof or ground
Time-stamped photos and videos are critical for proving that the storm caused the damage.
Prevent Further Roof Damage Immediately
Your homeowner’s policy typically requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent further loss. Failing to do so could jeopardize your claim. Here’s what to do:
- Cover exposed areas with heavy-duty tarps to prevent rain intrusion.
- Use plywood or plastic sheeting as temporary barriers
- Dry out wet interior spaces using fans or dehumidifiers
- Remove debris from the roof and gutters without climbing up, if possible
Do not attempt permanent repairs until the insurance adjuster has inspected the damage and confirmed the extent of the damage.
Contact Your Homeowners Insurance Company Promptly
Report the storm damage to your insurer as soon as possible.
Provide:
- Your policy number
- Date and time of the storm
- Detailed description of the roof damage
- Copies of photos and videos
Request a claim number and take note of the adjuster’s contact details. Keep all communication in writing or well-documented.
Understand Your Insurance Policy Coverage
Review your homeowner’s policy to determine:
- Deductible amount
- Coverage for wind, hail, or hurricane damage
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV) vs. Actual Cash Value (ACV)
- Coverage for code upgrades or debris removal
Beware of Roofing Scams After the Storm
In the wake of major storms, scammers often target vulnerable homeowners.
Watch out for:
- “Contractors” who ask for upfront cash payments
- Out-of-state roofers with no license or insurance
- Companies offering to “pay your deductible”
- High-pressure sales tactics and unsigned contracts
Work only with local, reputable, and licensed contractors who have verifiable references.
When to Call a Storm Damage Insurance Lawyer
Call an expert Florida property insurance attorney if:
- Your claim is denied or significantly underpaid
- The insurer is delaying payments or ignoring evidence
- You suspect bad faith conduct
- You want to reopen a closed claim
Legal experts can help hold insurance companies accountable and recover the full amount you’re entitled to.
Florida Homeowners: Know Your Rights
Florida is especially vulnerable to hurricanes, tropical storms, and high-wind events. Insurers in Florida have been known to delay or deny valid claims, especially after major storms when thousands of claims flood in.
If your roof was damaged in a Florida storm, and you’re not being treated fairly, our team at Williams Law, P.A. can help you pursue the full compensation you’re owed.