What To Do If a Hurricane Damages Your Roof: A Real-World Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve just been through a hurricane, first—take a breath. The wind might’ve passed, but the storm’s impact lingers. Trees are down, the power might be out, and your home? Well, you’re probably wondering how bad the roof got it.

You’re not alone.

When strong winds rip through a neighborhood, the roof usually takes the brunt. Even if things look okay at first glance, hidden damage is common—and acting fast can make all the difference between a minor fix and a major problem.

Here’s a simple, practical guide based on what homeowners in Florida have done time and again. No fluff. Just steps that work.

1. Start With Safety—Yours

Before you even think about climbing up a ladder or poking around, look around carefully. The storm may have left behind things you don’t want to mess with: live wires, loose tree limbs, broken glass. Stay alert.

If you can walk around your home safely, do a visual check from the ground. You might notice:

• Shingles scattered across the yard
• Gutters hanging loose
• Sagging or dented spots on the roof
• Water spots inside, especially near ceilings or attic openings

Sometimes the biggest clues are inside the house, not outside.

2. Take Pictures—Lots of Them

Don’t trust your memory, and don’t wait.

Grab your phone and start documenting the damage. Wide shots of the entire roof, close-ups of trouble spots, interior leaks—get it all. Even if it doesn’t look like much now, your insurance company will want proof later.

Also? Keep any debris or damaged materials you find nearby. They could be important during a claim.

3. Do What You Can, But Don’t Push It

If there’s an obvious leak and you feel safe handling it, go ahead and place a tarp over the damaged area or put buckets underneath drips indoors. But if there’s any risk at all—don’t. Wait for the pros.

Trying to fix something in a hurry, especially after a storm, can do more harm than good.

4. Call Your Insurance Provider

The sooner you get the claim started, the better. Let them know what happened and ask what steps to follow. Having your photos ready helps. You’ll probably be assigned an adjuster, and it’s worth asking how long that might take.

Some policies have short windows for filing claims after a storm. Don’t put this off.

5. Be Smart When Choosing a Roofer

Here’s the tough truth: storms attract more than just contractors. They attract opportunists.

Out-of-town crews may show up with flashy logos and smooth sales pitches, but not all are legit. Some disappear after taking your deposit. Others do quick, sloppy work and vanish before you can complain.

Stick with a local company that’s been around. Ask for proof of licensing and insurance. Look up reviews that go back years—not just the last two weeks. Ask neighbors who they trust.

6. Don’t Delay Repairs

It’s easy to put things off once the immediate danger is gone. But even a few missing shingles can lead to mold, rot, or leaks that cost thousands to repair later.

A solid roofing company will inspect everything, explain what they find, and offer a clear path forward. No scare tactics. No pressure. Just straight talk and real solutions.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with roof damage after a hurricane is stressful—but you’re not helpless. With calm, steady steps, you can protect your home, your finances, and your family.

And when you’re ready for professional help, call someone who knows this kind of storm because they’ve weathered it too. At Arry’s Roofing, we live and work in this community. We know what it takes to get your roof—and your life—back on track.

Need a roof inspection after a storm? We’re here when you need us. Just reach out.