Wind Damage to Your Roof: What to Do Next

Wind damaged your roof? Don't panic. Here's exactly what to do in the hours and days following storm damage to protect your home and document the damage for your insurance company. If the damage is more than a few shingles, see our storm damage restoration page for what a full repair involves.

Immediate Safety Steps

1. Stay Safe

• Don't climb on a damaged roof
• Watch for downed power lines
• Avoid areas with significant structural damage
• If severe damage occurred, consider temporary relocation

2. Prevent Further Damage

Your insurance policy requires you to prevent additional damage. This includes:

• Placing tarps over exposed areas (if safely accessible)
• Moving belongings away from leak areas
• Documenting water entry points

You can hire a professional for emergency tarping - this cost is typically covered by insurance.

Documentation Is Critical

3. Photograph Everything

Before any cleanup or temporary repairs:

• Take wide shots showing overall damage
• Capture close-ups of specific damage
• Photograph debris in your yard (shingles, flashing, etc.)
• Document interior water damage
• Include date/time stamps if possible

4. Keep Damaged Materials

Don't throw away fallen shingles or damaged components. Insurance adjusters need to see physical evidence. Store materials in a covered area until after your claim is processed.

Filing Your Claim

5. Contact Insurance Promptly

Most policies require 'prompt' reporting, typically within:

• 24-72 hours for significant damage
• 30 days as an absolute maximum

File online if your insurer offers it - this creates an immediate record.

6. Document Your Claim Number

Write down:

• Claim number
• Date and time filed
• Name of representative
• Any instructions given

Working with Adjusters

**7. Request a Professional Inspection First**

Before the insurance adjuster visits, have a licensed roofer inspect your roof. They can:

• Identify all damage (some isn't visible from ground level)
• Document using industry-standard methods
• Provide repair estimates
• Give you a written report you can share with your insurer

8. Be Present for Adjuster Visits

When the adjuster comes:

• Walk through all damage with them
• Share your documentation and photos
• Ask questions about anything unclear
• Get their contact information
• Request a copy of their report

Common Wind Damage Types

Understanding what the adjuster looks for helps ensure complete claims:

• Shingle blow-off - Missing shingles entirely
• Tab lifting - Edges lifted but shingle still attached
• Creasing - Fold lines from repeated lifting
• Granule loss - Protective surface scoured off
• Flashing damage - Metal components bent or displaced
• Soffit/fascia damage - Trim and overhang damage

Choosing a Contractor

9. Vet Contractors Carefully

After storms, disaster chasers flood the area. Protect yourself:

• Verify Florida contractor license
• Check reviews and references
• Get written estimates
• Before any deposit, confirm their license and insurance and get a written contract
• Avoid signing over insurance rights (Assignment of Benefits)

Local companies like ours have been serving Lake County for years - we'll be here for warranty issues and future needs.

Timeline Expectations

After major storms, expect delays:

• Adjuster visit: 1-3 weeks
• Claim decision: 2-4 weeks
• Contractor availability: 2-8 weeks
• Material availability: varies by demand

Start the process immediately - the sooner you act, the sooner repairs complete.

Homes on exposed lakefront lots take more wind; our storm damage restoration in Minneola page covers that local case.