Storm Damage Checklist
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The hours and days after a storm are when mistakes cost the most: a missed photo, a late claim, or a contract signed on the doorstep. This checklist puts the steps in the order they matter and lets you tick them off as you go.
Storm Damage Checklist
What to do after a storm, in order: stay safe, record the damage, prevent more, claim on insurance and choose a contractor.
Work down the list and tick each step off as you do it. The order matters: safety first, then evidence, then everything else.
Why the order matters
Safety comes before everything, then evidence, because once a tarp goes on or a damaged ceiling comes down, the proof goes with it. Preventing further damage is usually a condition of your policy, and insurance claims have deadlines. Choosing a contractor comes last, when you know what the damage and the claim look like.
Storm chasers
After big storms, crews from outside the area go door to door offering free inspections and quick repairs. Some are legitimate; some disappear after taking a deposit. A local address, a license you can check, proof of insurance and a written estimate protect you either way.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first after roof storm damage?
Make sure everyone is safe, keep away from fallen power lines, and stay off the roof. Then photograph the damage before anything is moved or covered.
How long do I have to claim for storm damage?
It depends on your policy, which sets a time limit for reporting damage. Check it straight away, because the clock usually starts on the date of the storm.
Should I let a door-to-door roofer inspect my roof?
Be cautious. Check that they have a local address, a licence and insurance, and get estimates from local roofers you contact yourself before signing anything.