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Storm Roof Damage Checklist
After hail, wind or heavy rain, a roof can have damage that's easy to miss from the yard. This checklist keeps you on the ground and focused on the signs that matter.
Check from the ground first
- Walk around the house and look for shingles, flashing or pieces of metal in the yard or gutters.
- Use binoculars to scan the roof for missing, lifted or curled shingles, and for dark patches where granules have worn away.
- Look at gutters and downspouts for dents, bent sections or a pile of granules. Hail often shows there first.
- Check the roof line for sagging or uneven areas, and look at chimneys, vents and skylights for loose or bent flashing.
Check inside the house
- Look at ceilings and upper walls for new stains, bubbling paint or damp spots.
- Go into the attic with a flashlight, if it's safe, and look for daylight coming through the roof deck, wet insulation or a musty smell.
- Note whether stains grow after rain, since that helps a roofer locate the source.
Document what you find
- Take dated photos of the damage from several distances, inside and outside.
- Write down the date and time of the storm and what you noticed afterward.
- Keep any bills for temporary protection such as a tarp.
Safety and next steps
- Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof. Falls are the main danger after a storm.
- Stay away from downed power lines and call the utility.
- For active leaks, move belongings, place a bucket and contact a roofing professional to inspect and advise on repair options.
Frequently asked questions
How soon after a storm should I have the roof checked?
As soon as it's safe. Small openings let water in during the next rain and can spread damage to insulation and ceilings.
Can hail damage be seen from the ground?
Sometimes. Dented gutters and vents are a clue, but damage to shingles often needs a close inspection by a roofing professional.
Should I tarp the roof myself?
Only if you can do it without going onto the roof. Otherwise leave it to a professional, because wet roofs are slippery and dangerous.
LocalRepairLine is a referral service, not a contractor. If you want help with any of the above, you can reach an independent local professional through this site.
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