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:

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:

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.