What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Storm Damages Your Roof

The storm has passed, and you think your roof may be damaged. The actions you take in the next 24 hours will significantly impact your insurance claim and how much additional damage your home sustains. Here's exactly what to do.

Immediately: Ensure Safety First

Before assessing any damage:

• Wait until the storm has fully passed--don't go outside during lightning or while winds are still dangerous
• Watch for downed power lines near your home or in your yard
• Check for gas leaks if you smell gas, leave immediately and call 911
• Be careful of standing water which may hide hazards or be electrically charged

Step 1: Document Everything (Hour 1-2)

Documentation is critical for your insurance claim. Before moving anything or making repairs:

• Take photos and video of all damage from multiple angles
• Include wide shots showing the overall damage and close-ups of specifics
• Photograph interior damage including water stains, leaks, and damaged belongings
• Document debris on the ground (fallen shingles, branches, etc.)
• Note the date and time on your photos or in notes
• Save damaged materials if possible--don't throw away broken shingles or tiles

Step 2: Prevent Further Damage (Hours 2-4)

Your insurance policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. This is called "mitigating further loss."

• Call for emergency tarping if your roof is exposed
• Move furniture and belongings away from leak areas
• Place buckets or containers to catch water
• Cover furniture with plastic if necessary
• Turn off electricity to affected areas if water is near electrical fixtures

Important: Don't make permanent repairs yet--only temporary protection. Document all emergency measures with photos.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company (Hours 4-8)

Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible:

• Have your policy number ready
• Provide a general description of the damage
• Ask about the claims process and timeline
• Get your claim number and adjuster's contact info
• Ask about coverage for emergency repairs/tarping
• Document who you spoke with, when, and what was said

Step 4: Contact a Roofing Professional (Hours 8-12)

Even if you've already arranged emergency tarping, contact a reputable roofing contractor for a full inspection:

• Get a professional assessment of all damage
• Request a detailed written estimate
• Ask them to be present when the insurance adjuster visits
• Ensure they're licensed and insured in Florida

Step 5: Keep Records (Ongoing)

From this point forward, document everything related to your claim:

• Keep receipts for all emergency repairs and temporary measures
• Log all phone calls with insurance (date, time, person, summary)
• Save all emails and written correspondence
• Keep copies of all estimates and reports
• Document any temporary living expenses if you had to leave your home

What NOT to Do

• Don't make permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects
• Don't throw away damaged materials without documenting them
• Don't sign contracts under pressure from anyone
• Don't climb on your roof unless you have proper equipment and training
• Don't wait to report the damage to your insurance company
• Don't accept the first insurance offer without reviewing it carefully

24-Hour Action Checklist

• Safety check complete
• Photos and video documentation complete
• Emergency tarping scheduled or complete
• Belongings moved away from affected areas
• Insurance company notified
• Claim number received
• Roofing contractor contacted for inspection
• Records file started