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 maximize your insurance claim.
In this guide
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
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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
- Meet with the adjuster on your behalf
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
- Never pay more than 30-50% deposit
- 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.
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