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What To Do After Storm Damage To Roof

What To Do After Storm Damage To Roof

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Experiencing damage to your roof as a result of a storm can evoke a whirlwind of frustrations. Firstly, there's the immediate concern for safety and security. The knowledge that your home, your sanctuary, has been compromised leaves you feeling vulnerable and exposed. Every drop of rain or gust of wind serves as a reminder of the breach in your home's defenses. 

This vulnerability can be particularly distressing if the damage is extensive, potentially rendering parts of your home uninhabitable until repairs are completed. The urgency to mitigate further damage amplifies the stress, as every passing moment increases the risk of water infiltration, structural deterioration, and secondary issues like mold growth.

Secondly, the logistical challenges of dealing with roof damage can be overwhelming. From navigating the complexities of insurance claims to finding reputable contractors amidst a surge in demand, every step of the repair process seems fraught with obstacles. Scheduling inspections, obtaining estimates, and coordinating repairs often entail a tedious and time-consuming ordeal. 

The frustration mounts as you grapple with the uncertainty of timelines and the disruption to your daily routine. The constant barrage of decisions to be made and tasks to be managed can leave you feeling drained and mentally exhausted, compounding the emotional toll of the situation.

Lastly, there's the financial strain of repairing or replacing a damaged roof. Even with insurance coverage, deductibles, depreciation, and coverage limitations can translate into significant out-of-pocket expenses. The realization that a natural disaster has not only disrupted your life but also depleted your savings can be disheartening. 

Moreover, the prospect of shouldering the financial burden alone, especially if the damage exceeds policy limits or falls under exclusions, adds an extra layer of anxiety. The financial repercussions may extend beyond the immediate repair costs, potentially impacting your long-term financial stability and delaying other planned investments or expenses. 

In essence, the frustrations of dealing with roof damage due to a storm encompass a complex interplay of safety concerns, logistical hurdles, and financial strains, all of which contribute to a profound sense of unease and upheaval.

Seven Things To Do After Your Roof Experiences Storm Damage

After experiencing storm damage to your roof, it's crucial to take prompt action to mitigate further damage and begin the process of repairs. Here's what you should do:

1) Assess The Damage

Once it's safe to do so, visually inspect your roof to assess the extent of the damage. Look for missing shingles, signs of water leaks or infiltration, and any structural issues such as sagging or buckling. Take photos or videos to document the damage, as this may be useful for insurance claims and when hiring contractors.

2) Secure The Area

If there are any loose or dangling materials on your roof, such as shingles or debris, try to secure them or remove them if it's safe to do so. This can help prevent further damage or injury. Be cautious when accessing your roof, especially if it's wet or slippery.

3) Temporarily Patch Leaks

If you discover any leaks or areas where water is entering your home, attempt to temporarily cover them to prevent further water damage. You can use tarps or plastic sheeting to cover exposed areas until permanent repairs can be made. 

4) Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and initiate the claims process. Provide them with the necessary documentation, such as photos of the damage and any relevant information about the storm. Be sure to follow their instructions and keep records of all communication related to your claim.

5) Hire A Reputable Contractor

Research and hire a reputable roofing contractor to assess the damage and provide repair estimates. Look for contractors who are licensed, insured, and experienced in handling storm damage repairs. Get multiple quotes if possible, and be wary of contractors who solicit door-to-door or pressure you into making hasty decisions.

6) Schedule Repairs

Once you've selected a contractor, schedule the necessary repairs as soon as possible. Depending on the extent of the damage and the availability of materials and labor, repairs may take time to complete. Stay in communication with your contractor throughout the process, and be prepared for potential delays due to weather or other factors.

7) Document Everything

Keep thorough records of all interactions with your insurance company, contractor, and any other parties involved in the repair process. This includes estimates, invoices, receipts, and correspondence. These documents may be important for insurance purposes and can help ensure that the repairs are completed to your satisfaction.

By taking these steps promptly and systematically, you can address storm damage to your roof efficiently and effectively, minimizing further damage and restoring the integrity of your home's roof.

Hire Northwest Roofing For Your Storm Damaged Roof

How would you like to not have to go through all seven steps listed above? Well, if you hire Northwest Roofing, we will take the headache of repairing your roof away. We extensively help homeowners through the insurance claim process. We make sure that insurance meets its obligations and pays to cover storm damage - so you don’t have to.

Dealing with insurance companies on your own can be a hassle and can also not work out in your favor. We at Northwest Roofing are experts. We are professionals, and we will help make sure your insurance company takes care of storm damage to your roof, if you’re covered under your policy. Look at these percentages:

  • Less than 10% of roof claims are completely covered when the homeowner deals with the insurance company on their own. 
  • Over 70% of roofs are covered by insurance when we handle it for you. 

Contact us through our website or give us a call at Northwest Roofing at 844-766-3762 for a free, no-pressure roof inspection and to get the most out of your insurance! We look forward to working with you!