What’s the first thing you do when a big storm passes? Maybe you check for damage, look for downed branches, or just stand there, hoping the roof held up. That moment always feels strange—part relief, part panic. The worst is over, but now comes the cleanup.
For homeowners, storms don’t just leave behind debris. They leave questions. What got damaged? What will it cost? Who can you trust to help? And with storms getting stronger and more frequent, those questions aren’t going away.
In this blog, we will share what homeowners should do after a major storm, how to assess your property, avoid common mistakes, and protect your home in the long run.
The First 24 Hours Matter
Storms don’t just damage homes—they shake routines. Once the winds die down, it’s tempting to relax. But the first 24 hours can set the tone for everything that comes next. That’s when small problems are easiest to spot, document, and fix.
Start with safety. Don’t climb on the roof or move large debris alone. If you smell gas or see downed power lines, call for help first. Then, take a walk around your property and photograph anything that looks out of place. Broken shingles. Dented gutters. Water spots on ceilings. Even a single missing tile can lead to major leaks later.
This is also the time to think ahead. Water damage isn’t always visible right away. Wet insulation, cracked flashing, or tiny gaps can go unnoticed—until they cause real problems.
That’s why it helps to work with a roofing expert early. Someone trained to find the stuff you can’t see from the ground. At New View Roofing, our team knows what to look for and how to document it properly. That documentation is critical—especially if you’re figuring out how to get insurance to pay for roof replacement. Insurance companies need proof, not guesses. The more accurate and detailed your evidence, the smoother your claim process will be.
Professional roofers can also explain what kind of damage is likely storm-related versus long-term wear. That difference matters. Insurance often covers sudden, unexpected damage—but not aging or neglect. The right photos, the right notes, and the right timing can make all the difference.
Watch Out for Red Flags
After a big storm, your neighborhood can start to feel like a revolving door of roofers and handymen. Some are legit. Many are not. If a contractor shows up in an unmarked truck, promises a full replacement without even looking at the roof, or pressures you to sign something immediately—pause.
Storm-chasers often appear out of nowhere. They offer “deals” that end up costing you more. They vanish before the job is done—or worse, after doing it badly. A quality contractor will walk you through the process, explain your options, and never push you into fast decisions.
Understanding What You’re Dealing With
Not all storm damage looks dramatic. A roof can be compromised even if it’s still intact. Wind can loosen shingles without tearing them off. Hail can crack materials without leaving obvious holes. And water might enter through the smallest gaps.
This is why post-storm inspections are about more than just visible damage. They’re about understanding how the storm moved through your space – which direction the wind came from, how rain pooled or drained and what parts of your home took the biggest hit.
And remember—it’s not just the roof. Windows, siding, gutters, and even attic vents can be affected. A detailed inspection should look at the whole picture, not just the top of the house.
Getting Organized Before You File
If your home has damage, your next step is filing a claim. That means paperwork. It means talking to your insurance provider. And it means staying calm when the process gets slow or confusing.
Start by reviewing your policy. Know your deductible. Know what kinds of damage are covered—and what’s excluded. Be ready to explain when the damage happened, what caused it, and what steps you’ve already taken.
Your roofing contractor can help here. They can provide an official estimate, a detailed report, and clear documentation that matches what your insurance adjuster needs. If your contractor is experienced with claims, they can also answer questions during the adjuster’s visit. That can be a game changer when decisions are being made about what’s covered.
Timing Is Everything
The longer you wait to inspect damage or file a claim, the harder the process becomes. Insurance companies might assume the damage wasn’t storm-related. Or that it got worse because you didn’t act.
That’s why speed matters—but so does being prepared. A quick phone call is good. A well-documented claim is better. You want to be first in line, not last-minute.
And don’t forget—many insurance policies have deadlines for filing after a storm. Missing that window can mean missing out on coverage, even if the damage is real.
The Emotional Side of Storm Recovery
Storm damage isn’t just physical. It’s stressful. It interrupts routines. It messes with plans. For many homeowners, dealing with roof repairs or leaks feels overwhelming—not just because of the cost, but because it feels like your home failed you.
That’s normal. But it’s also why having a plan helps. Knowing who to call. Knowing what to document. Knowing what to expect. These things give you back a sense of control when everything feels shaky.
Looking Ahead, Not Just Fixing Today
Once the repairs are done and the paperwork is filed, it’s tempting to move on and forget it happened. But storms are becoming more frequent. More intense. More unpredictable. And that means preparation matters more than ever.
Ask your contractor if there are upgrades that make sense for your area. Impact-resistant shingles. Better attic ventilation. Updated flashing or sealants. Small changes can make a big difference next time.
You might also consider a regular roof inspection schedule—once a year, or after any major storm. This keeps your roof in good shape and makes it easier to spot new damage when it happens.
At the end of the day, a storm shakes things up, but it also gives you the chance to build back smarter. With the right help, a clear plan, and a bit of patience, you can turn a stressful situation into a chance to strengthen your home—and your peace of mind.
Because in the end, it’s not just about fixing what broke. It’s about knowing what to do next time. And feeling ready when the skies start to turn.
