What to Do When Your Roof Is Damaged in a Storm: Emergency Steps for Homeowners

When a storm passes, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Shingles litter the yard, water drips in the hallway, and you’re left staring at the ceiling, wondering what to do next. You’re not alone—every year, thousands of homeowners face the same chaos. BLH Roofing understands how stressful this moment can be, and we’re here to help you take smart steps, quickly.

Acting fast after roof damage isn’t just about saving your home—it’s about keeping your family safe and preventing bigger headaches down the road. Here’s a straightforward guide to navigating those critical first hours, with real-world advice you can use right now.

What Happens When a Storm Damages Your Roof

Storms don’t play favorites. Whether you have shingle roofing, metal panels, or even a flat roof, high winds and heavy rain can cause serious trouble. Here’s what might happen:

• Shingles could blow off, exposing the wood beneath.
• Gutters and downspouts may detach or clog, leading to water overflow.
• Flashing around chimneys and skylights can peel away, inviting leaks.
• Large branches or debris can puncture roofing or damage skylights.

Think of your roof as your home’s helmet. When it’s cracked, water and wind find their way in—fast. That’s why every minute counts after a storm.

Quick Safety Checklist 🛑

Before you do anything, remember: Your safety comes first. Here’s where to start:

• Stay Inside If the Storm Isn’t Over: Don’t rush out. Wait for clear skies and listen for weather alerts.
• Look for Hazards: Watch for downed power lines, broken glass, or sharp debris. Avoid standing water near electrical sources.
• Check for Structural Risks: If ceilings sag or you hear creaking, there could be hidden damage. Leave the room and don’t try to investigate yourself.
• Inspect From the Ground: Use binoculars to scan the roof. Never climb a ladder if it’s wet or windy.

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends always inspecting from a safe distance until a professional can assess the damage.

First Steps to Protect Your Interior

If water is coming in, think of your home like a sinking boat—you need to bail out and patch leaks as best you can:

• Move Valuables: Shift furniture, electronics, and family keepsakes away from drips and puddles.
• Catch Leaks: Place buckets or large pots under active drips to minimize water spread.
• Lay Down Towels: Use towels or old blankets to soak up water and protect floors.
• Temporary Coverings: If you can access the attic safely, use plastic sheeting or a tarp to block the area under the leak from inside until help arrives.
• Ventilate: Open windows (if safe) to help dry out damp areas and reduce mold risk.

Don’t try to tarp the roof yourself unless you’re comfortable with heights and the roof is dry. Slippery shingles are no place for improvisation.

Documenting the Damage for Insurance

Insurance companies want proof, and the more you provide, the smoother your claim will go:

• Take Photos and Video: Snap wide shots of the whole house and close-ups of damage, both inside and out.
• List Damaged Items: Write down affected belongings, including serial numbers and estimated values if you have them.
• Save Receipts: If you buy tarps, buckets, or cleaning supplies, keep those receipts for reimbursement.
• Date Everything: Record the date and time of your photos and notes.

When the adjuster arrives, this record will make it much easier to show what happened—no guessing, no memory gaps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Storm damage is stressful, and it’s easy to make missteps that cost you later. Here’s what to steer clear of:

• Don’t Climb on a Damaged Roof: Even if you’re handy, storm-damaged roofs can collapse or cause falls.
• Don’t Ignore Small Leaks: A tiny drip can lead to big repairs if left unchecked.
• Don’t Throw Away Damaged Items Right Away: Your insurance company may need to see them.
• Don’t Wait Too Long to Call for Help: Delays can lead to more damage—and insurance headaches.

DIY or Call a Pro? Knowing When to Get Help

Some issues, like placing buckets or moving furniture, are safe DIY fixes. But most storm damage needs a professional touch. Here’s how to decide:

DIY Steps

• Place buckets or tarps inside to catch water.
• Move belongings away from wet spots.
• Use binoculars to visually inspect your roof from the ground.

Call a Roofing Pro When...

• Shingles or metal panels are missing.
• There’s visible roof sagging or holes.
• Chimney flashing near you is bent or missing.
• Water is coming through light fixtures or electrical outlets.
• You smell gas or see exposed wires (call emergency services first).

Roofers have the gear and training to safely tarp roofs, repair flashing, and assess hidden issues. It’s not worth risking a fall or missed problem.

What Professional Roofers Do When They Arrive

When BLH Roofing shows up, here’s what you can expect:

• Thorough Inspection: Pros check the roof, attic, gutters, and flashing for damage you might not spot.
• Temporary Fixes: We’ll install tarps or sealants to keep water out until a full repair is possible.
• Detailed Documentation: We take photos and notes to help with your insurance claim.
• Estimate Repairs: You’ll get a clear rundown of what needs fixing, from decking and shingle replacement to gutter repair or skylight work.

Licensed roofers follow OSHA safety standards and local building codes, keeping your family safe and your repairs up to code.

Prevention & Maintenance: Tips for Next Time 🏠

The best way to handle storm damage is to be ready before it strikes. A few simple steps go a long way:

• Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Once a year, or after major storms.
• Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Prevent overflow and ice dams.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Reduce the risk of falling limbs.
• Look for Loose Shingles or Flashing: Fix small issues before they grow.
• Consider Upgrades: Metal roofing, impact-resistant shingles, and modern gutter guards can all boost your roof’s defense.

Following guidelines from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) can further protect your home.

Costs & Time Factors: What to Expect

Every storm and every home is different, but here’s a general sense of what you might encounter:

• Emergency tarping: Often handled the same day, to prevent further water intrusion.
• Minor repairs: Flashing replacement or shingle patching may take a few hours.
• Major repairs or full roof replacement: These can take several days, depending on materials and weather.

Costs will vary based on materials (tile roofing, metal, shingles), size of the roof, and extent of damage. Insurance may cover much of the work—especially if you document everything and act quickly.

When It’s an Emergency: Don’t Wait

Some situations can’t wait. Call for emergency roofing services if:

• Water is pouring through the ceiling.
• Part of the roof is missing or caved in.
• There’s smoke, sparking wires, or the smell of gas (also call 911).
• Mold or mildew appears within a day or two—fast action prevents health hazards.

In these cases, a prompt call to a roofing professional isn’t just smart—it’s essential to protect your home and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I call my insurance company after a storm?

Contact your insurer as soon as you’ve documented the damage and made your home as safe as possible. The sooner you call, the faster your claim can move forward.

Will my insurance cover all types of roof damage?

Most homeowner policies cover storm-related damage, but every plan is different. Check your policy or ask your agent about specifics like wind, hail, and water coverage.

Should I try to tarp my own roof?

If you’re comfortable, have the right equipment, and the roof is safe and dry, you can try. But most homeowners are better off waiting for a pro to avoid injury or further damage.

What if I can’t see any obvious damage?

Even if the roof looks okay, hidden leaks and loose flashing can cause problems weeks later. Schedule a professional inspection to be sure.

Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

Every climate brings its own storm risks:

• Snow and ice: Can cause ice dams and heavy weight on flat roofs.
• Hurricanes and tropical storms: Uplift shingles, damage flashing, and cause flying debris.
• Hail: Dents metal roofing and cracks tile or shingles.
• Wind: Tears off gutters, downspouts, and even deck boards.

Seasonal maintenance—like cleaning gutters before fall storms or checking insulation before winter—keeps your roof ready for whatever weather comes your way.

Storm damage doesn’t wait, and neither should you. If your roof is leaking, gutters are torn loose, or you need help fast—BLH Roofing is ready. Our team handles everything from emergency leak repair and Chimney Flashing near you, to storm damage restoration and preventative maintenance.

Call BLH Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  877-748-7294 .