The Homeowner's Guide to Roof Storm Damage
A severe storm has just passed through Tulsa. The wind has died down, but now you're worried about the state of your roof. Knowing exactly what steps to take immediately following a storm can save you thousands of dollars and prevent massive headaches.
Step 1: Ensure Safety First
Before doing anything, make sure your family is safe. If there is severe structural damage or downed power lines near your home, evacuate immediately and call emergency services. Never climb onto a wet, damaged roof yourself.
Step 2: Perform a Ground-Level Assessment
Walk around the perimeter of your home and look for obvious signs of damage:
- Missing, torn, or folded back shingles.
- Dents on gutters, downspouts, or AC units (indicators of hail).
- Fallen tree branches on the roof.
- Granules accumulating heavily at the bottom of downspouts.
Step 3: Check the Interior
Go to your attic (if accessible and safe) and check for daylight showing through the roof deck. Look at the ceilings in your upper-level rooms for water stains, bubbling paint, or active drips. If you have an active leak, try to catch the water in buckets and move valuables out of the way.
Step 4: Call a Local, Reputable Roofer
This is crucial. Before calling your insurance company, have a trusted local roofer perform a comprehensive inspection. Why? Because if the damage is minor and costs less than your deductible to fix, filing a claim will only result in a mark on your insurance record without any payout. A good roofer will tell you honestly if a claim is warranted.
Step 5: Beware of "Storm Chasers"
After a major weather event, out-of-town roofing crews will knock on doors offering quick, cheap repairs. Avoid them. They often do shoddy work and leave town immediately, meaning your warranty is worthless. Always choose an established local contractor like Calhoun Roofing.
Step 6: Document Everything
Take photos of the damage from the ground, both inside and outside your home. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs (like tarping) or temporary housing if you had to leave your home. This documentation will be vital for your insurance claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I call my insurance company or a roofer first?
We recommend calling a trusted roofer first. They can verify if there is enough damage to warrant a claim, saving you from filing an unnecessary claim that could affect your rates.
What is a storm chaser?
Storm chasers are out-of-state roofing companies that flood an area after a storm. It's always safer to use a reputable, established local contractor who will be there to honor your warranty.
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