After the Storm: How to Check Your Roof Safely and Document Damage

After a storm, check your roof from the ground and from inside. Never climb onto it. Photograph everything you see, prevent further water damage if you can do it safely, and notify your insurance company according to your policy.

Check safely

• Stay off the roof and away from downed power lines
• Walk the perimeter: look for missing or slipped tiles, shingles or metal panels
• Check the yard for roofing debris
• Inside, look at ceilings and the attic (with a flashlight) for water stains or drips

Document the damage

1. Photograph every side of the house from the ground
2. Photograph debris, interior stains and wet areas
3. Note the date and time
4. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or tarps

Prevent more water damage

If water is coming in, move belongings, catch drips and call a licensed roofer for emergency tarping. Don’t climb up to tarp it yourself. SafeTech answers after hours and on weekends for emergency tarping: (954) 665-3231.

Notify your insurer

Report damage to your insurance company as your policy requires. A documented roof inspection can help you understand what you’re seeing, but your insurer decides coverage.

Avoid storm chasers

• Verify any contractor’s license on DBPR
• Be wary of door-knockers offering to "handle your claim"
• Walk away from any contractor who offers to waive or pay your deductible, or offers gifts, cash or rebates to inspect your roof or file a claim. Florida law prohibits it (s. 489.147, F.S.)
• Be wary of anyone asking you to sign an assignment of benefits. For residential policies issued on or after January 1, 2023, Florida law makes post-loss assignments void (s. 627.7152, F.S.)

Signs to look for from the ground

• Missing, cracked or slipped tiles
• Lifted or missing shingles and exposed underlayment
• Bent or lifted metal panels and edge trim
• Damaged ridge and hip caps
• Gutters pulled away from the fascia
• Tree limbs on the roof

Inside the home

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Damp insulation or daylight visible in the attic
• Musty smells in closets near exterior walls
• Peeling paint near the ceiling line

Safe temporary steps

Move valuables away from leaks, place buckets, and turn off electricity to wet areas if it is safe to do so. Leave roof tarping to licensed professionals.

Choosing a contractor after a storm

After a storm, unlicensed contractors and door-to-door crews often arrive. Take your time. Verify the license, get a written scope, and never sign a document you don’t understand. A reputable roofer will inspect, document and explain, without pressure.

Frequently asked questions