How to Inspect Your Roof After a Storm

Severe weather can leave your roof in a vulnerable state. Acting quickly — but safely — after a storm can prevent minor damage from turning into a costly disaster. This guide walks you through how to perform a thorough post-storm inspection without putting yourself at risk.

Safety First: What Not to Do

Never climb onto your roof immediately after a storm. Wet surfaces, hidden soft spots, and debris make post-storm roofs extremely hazardous. Instead, start your inspection from the ground and move indoors before ever considering getting up there.

• Wait for dry conditions before any roof access
• Avoid ladder use on wet or muddy ground
• Hire a licensed roofer if you suspect structural damage

Step 1: Ground-Level Visual Inspection

Start by walking the perimeter of your home with a pair of binoculars. Look for:

• Missing or displaced shingles — gaps in the shingle field are a clear sign of wind damage
• Lifted shingle edges — wind can break the adhesive seal without removing shingles entirely
• Visible granule loss — asphalt shingles shed granules when struck by large hail; you may also see granule accumulation in gutters
• Damaged flashing — check around chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys for bent or torn metal
• Dented vents or ridge caps — soft metal components like aluminum vents dent visibly in hail storms
• Fallen branches or debris on the roof surface

Step 2: Check Your Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters are a useful diagnostic tool. After a hail storm, check your gutters for:

• Granule accumulation — significant granule loss accelerates shingle aging
• Dents in aluminum gutters — if your gutters are dented, your roof likely took hits too
• Debris blockages — leaves and twigs washed in from the storm can trap moisture

Step 3: Interior Attic Inspection

With a flashlight, inspect your attic for signs of water intrusion:

• Water stains on rafters or the decking (the plywood layer under the shingles)
• Daylight penetration — small pinholes of light indicate compromised areas
• Soft or sagging decking — a sign of prolonged moisture exposure
• Mould or mildew odour — early indication of a slow leak

Step 4: Document Everything

Before any repairs or cleanup, document the damage thoroughly:

1. Take dated photographs from multiple angles
2. Note the date and severity of the storm
3. Keep records of any emergency repairs you make (tarping, etc.)

This documentation is essential for insurance claims. Most homeowners’ policies cover storm damage, but you’ll need evidence of both the damage and its cause.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a licensed roofing contractor if you observe any of the following:

• More than a few missing shingles
• Visible daylight in the attic
• Interior water staining or active leaks
• Any structural concerns (sagging roof line, soft spots)
• Your roof is older than 15 years and shows wear

A reputable roofer will offer a free inspection and provide a written estimate. Be wary of “storm chasers” — out-of-town contractors who appear after major weather events and often do substandard work.

Temporary Repairs While You Wait

If you have an active leak and cannot get a roofer immediately, a heavy-duty polyethylene tarp secured over the damaged area can prevent further interior damage. Ensure the tarp extends well past the ridge and is weighted or fastened — don’t let it become a sail in the next wind event.

Filing an Insurance Claim

If the damage is significant, contact your insurance company promptly. Most policies require you to report damage within a reasonable timeframe. Your insurer may send an adjuster, or you may be able to use your own contractor’s assessment. Keep all receipts for emergency repairs.

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Regular post-storm inspections are one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your roof. A problem caught early is almost always cheaper and easier to fix than one discovered after months of slow water infiltration.