Your roof definitely takes the brunt of the effects of environmental elements year-round. That is no secret. Whether it is residential or commercial roofing, strong winds can tear off your roof’s shingles or a tree or other debris can fall on your roof. Hail, heavy winds and rainstorms can do a number on your roof and while it is unpredictable when you’ll experience a storm, your area will likely experience storm damage – particularly during hurricane season. Yes, even if you don’t directly deal with hurricanes where you live, you will indirectly deal with its effects. When that happens, it’s so important to know the best ways to deal with roof damage following a storm.

 

Below we are sharing 3 steps on what to do if your commercial or residential roof has had storm damage.

Inspect Roof Carefully

Prior to inspecting the roof of your home for damage, make sure the storm has already passed and only go outside once it is safe to do so. Should you see downed power lines or flooding, immediately call 911 and stay indoors. If not, still be on the lookout for any hazards, particularly on or close to your roof as this is typically the most dangerous area after storm damage. We are talking about structural issues and including those you cannot see. The most obvious things you can check is heavy debris, and loose or broken shingles.

If storm damage has caused leaks inside your home, you will need to put a tarp over your roof for emergency protection until a professional roofer can assess and repair the damage. The additional damage you will look for is to check your walls for discolored areas or water stains on the ceiling as well as flooring. Once you have inspected your roof and walls/ceiling, make a note of that for your emergency roof repair.

Contact a Licensed Roof Contractor

Now, after inspecting your roof and the inside of your home as thoroughly as is safely possible for you to do, you may not see any damage. That does not mean that there is no damage. It is better to confirm whether there is or isn’t by having a professional roofer do an inspection. They are accustomed to assessing properties in all types of conditions to give you a more precise breakdown of the damage. That’s when they can provide an estimate on repair work needed. 

As far as professional experts go, beware of storm chasers who may tell you that you will need to have your roof replaced when it can be fixed with an expert repair.

Call Your Insurance Company

Once it has been determined that your roof has been damaged by a storm, make sure to call your insurance company to inform them about it immediately. As you may have already received an estimate from your roofing contractor, you can provide that to your insurance agent to find out what is and is not covered in your policy.

Make sure to have your insurance policy close by and document all of the belongings that were damaged in the storm. Also be sure to take pictures of the damage and be ready to show them to your insurance company. We advise you to read your insurance policy carefully and ensure that you were not personally negligent towards your property. Do not forget to ask your insurance agent what your policy limits are, what the deductibles are, and what the process is   to file your claim.

If your roof has been damaged by a storm, whether it be hail, wind or thunder, be sure to call our licensed roofing contractors at R.L. Hayes Roofing & Repairs to come assess the damage, provide a quote and get started on your roof repair. Call us today or visit us online!

R L Hayes Roofing & Repairs
3540 Wheeler Rd Ste 103
Augusta, GA 30909
(706) 869-1193
https://rlhayes.com/