What to do after storm damage to your roof
Practical first steps for documenting visible damage, protecting people, and contacting a qualified roofing professional.
Put personal safety first
Stay away from downed power lines, sagging ceilings, unstable structures, and areas where water may be near electrical equipment. Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof.
If anyone is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services. Follow instructions from local officials before entering a damaged building.
Document what you can see safely
From the ground or a safe interior location, take dated photos of visible damage and any water intrusion. Keep receipts for reasonable temporary measures and note when the damage occurred.
Avoid removing damaged materials before documenting them unless needed to address an immediate safety issue.
- Photograph affected rooms and visible exterior damage from a safe distance.
- Write down when you noticed the damage and any weather event that preceded it.
- Keep copies of estimates, invoices, and communications.
Contact qualified providers directly
Use a directory to identify possible roofing companies, then contact each one to ask about current availability, licensing requirements in your area, insurance, written estimates, and the scope of any temporary work.
This directory does not dispatch contractors, guarantee response times, or determine insurance coverage. Confirm credentials and terms with the provider and relevant licensing authority.