Table of Contents
Leesburg and greater Lake County regularly experience severe weather—from afternoon thunderstorms to tropical systems and hurricanes. When your roof sustains storm damage, knowing the right steps can save you thousands and prevent further damage to your home. This guide walks Leesburg homeowners through the entire process.
Immediate Steps After Storm Damage
1. Ensure Safety First
Before inspecting any damage:
- Wait for the storm to fully pass
- Watch for downed power lines
- Be cautious of weakened tree limbs
- Don't go on the roof yourself—it may be structurally compromised
If you have obvious structural damage or a tree on your roof, contact emergency services if needed.
2. Document Everything
This is crucial for insurance claims:
- Take photos and videos from the ground
- Photograph any interior water damage
- Note the date and time
- Keep all damaged materials if possible
- Make a written list of what you observe
3. Prevent Further Damage
You're allowed (and expected) to make temporary repairs:
- Tarp exposed areas if safe to do so
- Place buckets under active leaks
- Move belongings away from water intrusion
- Turn off electricity to affected areas if water is near outlets
Save all receipts—these emergency measures are typically reimbursable.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
File your claim promptly:
- Most policies require 'timely' reporting (usually within days)
- Get a claim number
- Ask about their timeline and process
- Request a copy of your policy if needed
Don't sign anything or accept any settlement until you fully understand the damage extent.
Types of Storm Damage Common in Leesburg
Wind Damage
Leesburg's location makes it vulnerable to wind from multiple storm types:
- Missing shingles: Often from uplift at edges or ridges
- Lifted shingles: May look okay but seal is broken
- Exposed nail heads: Shingles shifted, nails now vulnerable
- Damaged ridge caps: Often the first to go in high winds
Hail Damage
Severe thunderstorms can produce damaging hail:
- Bruised shingles: Dark spots or exposed mat
- Cracked tiles: Visible fractures
- Dented metal: Impacts on flashing or metal roofs
- Damaged gutters: Often easier to spot than roof damage
Hail damage may not be visible from the ground—professional inspection is important.
Fallen Debris
Lake County's abundant trees mean debris damage is common:
- Direct punctures: Branches through the roof
- Impact damage: Bruising or cracking from falling limbs
- Accumulated debris: Leaves and branches trapping moisture
- Gutter damage: Blocked or torn off by debris
Water Intrusion
Wind-driven rain can enter through:
- Compromised shingles: Even minor damage allows water entry
- Damaged flashing: Around chimneys, vents, skylights
- Soffit and fascia: Blown off by wind pressure
- Exhaust vents: Covers blown off
Working With Insurance
Understanding Your Policy
Leesburg homeowners typically have policies covering:
- Wind damage (usually covered)
- Hail damage (usually covered)
- Fallen trees/debris (usually covered)
- Flood damage (requires separate policy)
Know your deductible—many Florida policies have separate hurricane deductibles (often 2-5% of home value).
The Claims Process
- File promptly after documenting damage
- Insurance adjuster visits (usually within 1-2 weeks after major storms)
- Get your own inspection from a licensed roofer
- Review the adjuster's report carefully
- Negotiate if needed—you have the right to dispute
- Select your contractor (you choose, not the insurance company)
When to Push Back
Don't accept the first offer if:
- Damage was clearly undercounted
- Line items seem low compared to actual costs
- Important damage was missed
- Your contractor's estimate differs significantly
You can request a re-inspection or hire a public adjuster if needed.
Avoiding Storm Chaser Scams
After every major storm, Leesburg sees an influx of out-of-state 'storm chasers.' Protect yourself:
Red Flags
- Door-to-door solicitation immediately after storms
- 'Limited time' pressure tactics
- Requests for large upfront payments
- Offers to pay your deductible (this is insurance fraud)
- No local address or references
- Unmarked or out-of-state license plates
Protect Yourself
- Get multiple estimates
- Verify Florida state roofing license
- Check for local business presence
- Read reviews from Lake County residents
- Never sign a contract you don't fully understand
- Don't sign Assignment of Benefits (AOB) without understanding the implications
Finding a Trusted Leesburg Roofer
After storm damage, choose a contractor who:
- Has a physical location in or near Lake County
- Holds valid Florida roofing licenses
- Has been in business multiple years
- Provides detailed written estimates
- Will work directly with your insurance
- Has strong local references
Pro Specialty Services for Leesburg Storm Damage
We're a local, family-owned company serving Leesburg and all of Lake County. When storms hit, we're here to help:
- Emergency tarping services available
- Free storm damage inspections
- Insurance claim assistance
- Licensed Florida roofing contractor (CCC1335465)
- Permanent repairs with quality materials and warranties
Get Help After Storm Damage
If your Leesburg home has storm damage, don't wait. Water intrusion can cause additional damage within days. Contact Pro Specialty Services at (352) 272-8854 for emergency service or to schedule a free inspection. We'll document the damage, provide an honest assessment, and help you navigate the insurance process.
