What to Do Immediately After Storm Damage: 6 Essential Steps

The First Hours After A Storm Are Critical

Western Pennsylvania’s severe thunderstorms, hail, and high winds can damage your roof in minutes. What you do in the
hours and days that follow determines whether you face a simple repair or a full-blown emergency. This step-by-step
guide walks you through the six most important actions to protect your home, your family, and your insurance claim.

Get a Free Roof Inspection

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name(Required)
Address(Required)
This field is hidden when viewing the form
This field is hidden when viewing the form

6 Essential Steps After Storm Damage

Immediate Priority

Stay away from downed power lines, standing water, and visibly damaged structures. Do not climb onto a damaged roof
under any circumstances. If structural damage is severe, evacuate and call emergency services before assessing property.

Damage Mitigation

Cover broken windows, place tarps over exposed areas where safe to do so, and move valuables away from active leaks.
Most homeowner's insurance policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage — document
everything before and after.

Evidence Collection

Photograph and video every angle of damage — roof, gutters, siding, interior ceilings, walls, and any debris. Capture
wide shots for context and close-ups for detail. Include timestamps and don't move or discard any damaged materials
before documentation is complete.

Start the Claims Process

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process. Ask about your
deductible, coverage limits, required documentation, and filing deadlines. Most policies have time-sensitive windows —
delays can reduce or void your coverage.

Expert Assessment

A certified roofing contractor can identify hidden damage that's invisible from the ground — compromised underlayment,
weakened decking, lifted flashing, and internal moisture intrusion. Professional documentation strengthens your
insurance claim significantly.

Restoration & Recovery

Choose a licensed, insured contractor with storm restoration experience — not a storm chaser passing through. A
reputable local company will coordinate with your insurance adjuster, provide warranty-backed work, and stand behind
the results long after the project is complete.

72hr

Ideal window to file your insurance claim

65%

Of storm damage is invisible from the ground

40%

Of roof failures trace back to delayed repairs

2x

Yearly inspections catch problems early

THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING

pennsylvania roofing company

When it comes to your home project, we’ll get your project done the first time around! Make sure to check out our specials in your area!

Which state are you in?