How to Assess & Document Storm Damage to Your Roof: A Comprehensive Guide
Nov 21, 2024If your home’s roof has suffered considerable damage because of severe weather, you might be wondering where to turn. Roof storm damage can be unsettling and stressful, especially if the damage is so severe that the inside of your home has been compromised. Contacting your insurance company and finding a trustworthy roofing contractor are key steps you’ll need to take, but first you’ll want to accurately assess and document the extent of the damage your roof has experienced.
Common Types of Roof Storm Damage in Tampa & Atlanta
Tampa, Florida, and Atlanta, Georgia, experience a range of severe weather conditions that can inflict considerable damage on roofs. In Tampa, hurricanes and tropical storms are common and can bring fierce winds, heavy rain, and debris impacts. These elements can cause shingle lifting, roof punctures, and dislodged flashing. Atlanta faces its share of severe thunderstorms, hail, and occasional tornadoes, leading to issues like cracked shingles, hail pockmarks, and water damage.
These types of weather conditions can weaken the roof structure and leave it vulnerable to further damage if repairs are not made promptly. Knowing what types of damage to look for can help you assess your roof’s condition more effectively.
First Steps to Safely Assess Roof Storm Damage
Before stepping outside to check for damage, safety should be your top priority. Here are the first steps you should take:
Wait Until Conditions Are Safe
Make sure the storm has fully passed before going outside. Watch out for fallen power lines, debris, and other hazards.
Do a Ground-Level Inspection
Walk around your home and look for visible signs of damage, such as missing shingles, fallen branches, or damaged flashing. Use binoculars to get a clearer view of your roof without climbing up.
Check the Attic
Inside your home, inspect the attic for signs of water leaks, such as dark spots, dripping water, or damp insulation.
Documenting Roof Storm Damage
Thorough documentation is crucial before an insurance adjustor or roofing contractor arrives. Here’s how to document the damage:
- Photographs – Take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles to capture missing shingles, dents, holes, and any structural damage. Include close-ups and wide shots for better context.
- Video evidence – Record a walkthrough video, narrating the visible damage as you go to provide a comprehensive overview.
- Written notes – Write down details about the storm, such as the date, time, and type of weather event, along with any immediate issues you’ve observed.
Proper documentation can streamline the claim process and provide valuable evidence for your insurance company and roofing contractor.
Understanding the Insurance Claim & Roof Repair Process
After documenting the damage, you’ll need to reach out to your insurance company to start the claim process. An adjustor will schedule a visit to assess the damage, so be prepared to share your photos and notes. Once the claim is approved, you can work with a trusted roofing contractor to get the necessary repairs done.
Roofing Done Wright’s Storm Damage Repair Services
Roofing Done Wright offers comprehensive roof inspections and storm damage repair services for homeowners in the Tampa, Florida, and Atlanta, Georgia, areas. Our team conducts thorough inspections to identify all signs of storm damage, ensuring nothing is overlooked. We are experienced in assisting homeowners with navigating the insurance claim process, making it smoother and less stressful.
Act Today to Protect Your Home
Don’t let storm damage go unchecked. Contact Roofing Done Wright today to schedule a roof inspection and learn more about our expert storm damage repair services. Let us help you return your home to its best condition, so you can feel secure again.