What to do when a storm damages your roof
A simple checklist for the first hours and days after a hurricane, tornado or severe storm.
After a storm, it is hard to know what to do first. This checklist walks you through the steps that matter most, in order. It is general information, not legal or insurance advice.
1. Stay safe first
- Stay off the roof. Storm-damaged roofs can be slick, unstable or hiding weak decking.
- If you see a sagging ceiling, water near light fixtures or outlets, or a damaged electrical service, leave the area and call emergency services.
- Watch for downed power lines and do not walk through standing water.
2. Document the damage
- Take wide photos and close-ups of the roof from the ground, plus any damaged siding, gutters, fences or trees.
- Photograph interior water damage: ceilings, walls, floors and attic insulation.
- Write down the date and time of the storm and when you first noticed each problem.
3. Stop more damage from happening
Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Emergency tarping is the usual way to protect an open or damaged roof until the permanent repair. Move belongings away from leaks and keep every receipt for temporary repairs.
4. Call your insurance company
Report the damage as soon as you can and ask what they need from you. Policies can have separate hurricane deductibles and deadlines for reporting a claim, so read yours or ask your agent.
5. Get a roof inspection
- Look for missing or lifted shingles, exposed underlayment, bent or loose flashing, damaged vents and soft or sagging areas.
- Inside the attic, look for daylight, wet insulation, stains on the decking or a musty smell.
- Ask the contractor for photos and a written scope of what they found.
6. Choose your contractor carefully
- Verify the contractor holds a Florida license. You can look up any license on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website, MyFloridaLicense.com.
- Be careful with anyone who knocks on doors right after a storm, asks for large payments up front or pressures you to sign right away.
- Read anything before you sign it, especially anything that affects your insurance claim.
How VIP Roofing can help
VIP Roofing Company LLC (Florida License # CCC1334882) provides emergency tarping, storm damage repair and full roof replacement across Escambia, Okaloosa, Walton and Bay counties. Our emergency line is 888-847-0553.
Frequently asked questions
Should I climb on my roof to check the damage?
No. Storm-damaged roofs can be unsafe. Check from the ground with binoculars or a phone camera zoom, and have a professional inspect it.
How soon should I tarp a damaged roof?
As soon as it is safe to do so. Every hour with an open roof lets in more water, which can lead to ceiling damage, mold and higher repair costs.
Does insurance pay for emergency tarping?
Many policies cover reasonable emergency repairs that prevent further damage, but coverage varies. Check your policy, keep your receipts and ask your insurance company.
How do I know a roofer is licensed in Florida?
Search the contractor by name or license number on MyFloridaLicense.com, the state licensing lookup.
Need a roof inspection?
Call or text us. We will document the damage and give you a clear written scope.