What to Do if a Storm Damages Your Roof

In Florida, severe weather is a part of life, especially during the summer months and hurricane season. While we’re used to quick afternoon thunderstorms, these storms can do more than just put a damper on your day. In just a matter of minutes, they can unleash heavy rain, damaging winds, and even bring down large tree limbs or power lines. The combination of high humidity, soaked soil, and unpredictable wind creates the perfect storm for roof damage.

Whether shingles are missing, water is seeping in, or debris is hitting your roof, the experience can be overwhelming. When dealing with roof damage, most homeowners have no idea where to start, whom to contact, or how to navigate the insurance claims process. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you take immediate, informed action to protect both your home and your insurance claim after storm damage.

Step 1: Inspect From a Distance

After a storm, your first instinct might be to climb up onto your roof and assess the damage yourself, but this is extremely dangerous. Even if your roof seems stable, weak points can cause a roof to collapse unexpectedly, creating a major safety risk.

Rather than climbing up, inspect your property from the ground. If it’s safe to do so, carefully walk around the exterior and look for signs of damage, such as missing shingles, fallen limbs, or debris on your roof. Don’t forget to check from the inside as well; look for ceiling stains, watermarks on walls, or water leaking into your attic, which can all be signs of roof damage.

Step 2: Document the Damage & Try to Prevent it from Getting Worse

Use your mobile phone or camera to photograph or video all visible damage from the ground, both indoors and outdoors. Don’t attempt to diagnose the issue; instead, gather enough evidence to support your roofer and insurance claim. Keeping everything organized, including receipts and notes surrounding the storm, will make you feel prepared and in control of the situation.

Next, take steps intended to prevent further damage. Place buckets underneath leaks, move valuables out of harm’s way, and cover furniture if needed. In more serious cases, emergency roof tarping may be required to protect your home. Acting quickly shows your insurer that you’ve taken responsible steps to limit the damage and can help streamline your claim.

Step 3: Contact a Trusted Roofing Professional like TSpark Enterprises!

Leading up to and after a big storm, roofers book up fast, so it’s crucial to secure a spot on the schedule. Certified and experienced roofers, such as TSpark, will do more than patch things up. They’ll conduct a thorough inspection, document the damage, provide a detailed estimate, and help in scheduling any temporary repairs, like emergency tarping or structural support.

Storms often attract unlicensed contractors who offer quick fixes that do not hold up in the long run. But now is not the time to take chances. TSpark is a locally owned business with deep roots in the community, known for our quality and care. When you work with us, you’re getting a partner who’s committed to protecting your home or business for the long haul.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

Now that you’ve documented the damage and taken steps to prevent it from worsening, it’s time to reach out to your insurance provider to file a claim. Acting quickly helps avoid delays and keeps your repair timeline on track.

Be prepared to share:

• Photos of interior and exterior damage
• Inspection reports
• Receipts

Step 5: Time to Schedule Repairs with TSpark

Once your insurance claim is authorized, it’s time to start working on repairs. Getting on the schedule early means you won’t have to wait for repairs, especially during the busy storm seasons. TSpark has experience working with insurance adjusters and managing projects efficiently from start to finish, ensuring a smooth and timely repair process that returns your home or business to normal. We’re here to help!

Storm damage can be intimidating, but knowing what to do makes all the difference. TSpark Enterprises is proud to provide expert inspections, emergency services, and insurance support when you need it most. For dependable, high-quality roofing after a storm, TSpark is the team to call!

TSpark Enterprises, headquartered in Tallahassee, Florida, offers a wide range of roofing and construction services in the North Florida and South Georgia areas. Visit our website or call (850) 766-1340 to get a free estimate and embark on your construction journey today!