Take charge and learn what to do after storm damage, right here!
Savannah is no stranger to storms. Tropical storms or hurricanes affect the area approximately once every 1-2 years, with direct hurricane hits occurring on average once every 8-10 years. From the occasional tropical system to the more powerful hurricanes, these weather events can leave a path of destruction.
| Storm Event | Frequency | Roof Damage Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical Storm/Hurricane (any impact) | Once every 1-2 years | Moderate to High |
| Direct Hurricane Hit | Once every 8-10 years | High to Severe |
| Fatal Roofing Fall Incidents | 85-90% of roofing fatalities | Personal Safety Risk |
If you’ve recently found yourself facing storm damage, especially to your roof, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, help is here.
The following guide will walk you through the steps you need to take to address the damage and get your roof back in top shape.
What To Do After Storm Damage:
1. Ensure Safety First
Before going outside, check local weather reports and wait for the storm to pass completely. Downed power lines, loose debris, and unstable structures pose serious safety hazards.
Once it’s safe, do a visual inspection from ground level. Look for missing or damaged shingles, warped flashing, exposed underlayment, or sagging rooflines.
If you notice any signs of significant damage, refrain from climbing onto the roof yourself. Approximately 85-90% of fatal injuries in the roofing industry involve falls.
2. Document the Damage
Take clear and detailed photos and videos of the damage, both from the ground and any accessible areas around the house.
Include close-ups of specific points of damage, surrounding areas, and any timestamps or weather details possible.
This documentation will be essential when filing an insurance claim and working with a contractor.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, report the damage to your homeowner’s insurance company. They will guide you on what to do after storm damage, from the claim process to scheduling an adjuster’s visit and more.
Remember, it’s usually best to contact your insurance company before contacting a contractor.
4. Secure Your Home
While waiting for your insurance adjuster and repairs to begin, prioritize preventing further damage.
If there are any holes in your roof, use tarps or plywood to create a temporary cover. Secure the tarps tightly with ropes or sandbags to prevent them from blowing away in further wind.
Remember, these are temporary solutions and don’t attempt permanent repairs yourself.
5. Find a Reputable Contractor
Don’t rush into hiring the first contractor you come across, especially after a major storm event. Unscrupulous individuals known as “storm chasers” may try to take advantage of the situation. Here are some tips for finding a reputable contractor:
- Get recommendations: Ask friends, neighbors, or local businesses for recommendations on trusted storm damage roof repair contractors in the Savannah area.
- Check online reviews: Look for contractors with positive reviews on platforms like Google My Business, Facebook, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
- Verify licensing and insurance: Ensure the contractor is licensed and carries adequate liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
- Get multiple quotes: Obtain estimates from several qualified contractors before making a decision. Be wary of contractors offering significantly lower prices than others, as it could indicate shortcuts or low-quality materials.
6. Understand the Repair Process
When meeting with potential contractors, discuss the scope of the repairs, the materials they plan to use, and the estimated timeline for completion. Full replacement is often recommended if 30-35% of the roof is damaged or if the roof is approaching 20-25 years of age.
| Damage Level | Roof Age | Recommended Action | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor (isolated shingles, small leaks) | Under 15 years | Repair | $300-$600 |
| Moderate (10-25% of roof) | Under 15 years | Repair | $5,000-$10,000 |
| Significant (30-35%+ of roof) | Any age | Consider Replacement | $5,000-$20,000+ |
| Any level of damage | 20-25+ years | Consider Replacement | Full replacement cost |
Ask about any warranties offered on the work. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and ensure you understand the entire process before signing a contract.
7. Work with Your Adjuster
The insurance adjuster will assess the damage and determine the value of your claim. Be honest and transparent throughout the process. If you disagree with the adjuster’s assessment, you have the right to appeal their decision.
8. Be Patient and Organized
Recovering from storm damage takes time and patience. Maintain open communication with your insurance company, contractor, and any other professionals involved in the repair process. Keep all paperwork and documentation organized for future reference.
Additional Tips:
- Consider hurricane shutters: Installing hurricane shutters can significantly protect your roof and windows during future storms.
- Maintain your roof: Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify minor issues before they become major problems.
- Know your deductible: Be familiar with your homeowner’s insurance policy and the deductible you’ll need to pay before your insurance kicks in.
Remember, your safety and the safety of your family are paramount throughout this process. Don’t hesitate to seek help from professionals when needed. They know exactly what to do after storm damage, so they can guide you through the process.
Let Platinum Roofing be Your Storm Damage Roof Repair Contractor!
Dealing with storm damage can be stressful but with Platinum Roofing, we’ll make the entire process as easy and stress-free as possible. We’ll conduct a thorough inspection of your roof’s condition, perform the necessary repairs, and keep you informed from start to end. We’ll assist with your insurance claims too! Just give us a call today to schedule your roof assessment!
How long do I have to file an insurance claim after storm damage occurs?
Most insurance policies require you to report storm damage “promptly” or within a “reasonable time,” typically ranging from a few days to one year depending on your carrier. However, filing sooner increases your chances of approval and prevents disputes about whether subsequent weather events caused additional damage. Review your specific policy language or contact your agent to confirm exact deadlines.
What should I do if my insurance claim is denied after storm damage?
If your claim is denied, request a detailed written explanation from your insurer and review your policy carefully. You can hire a public adjuster for an independent assessment, provide additional documentation or expert opinions, or file a formal appeal. Many denials result from insufficient evidence or misunderstandings about coverage, which can often be resolved through proper documentation.
Can I live in my home while storm damage roof repairs are being completed?
In most cases, you can remain in your home during roof repairs unless there’s severe structural damage or active leaks compromising safety. Expect noise, vibrations, and debris during work hours, and protect indoor belongings from dust. If extensive interior damage exists or repairs require removing large roof sections, temporary relocation may be necessary for safety and comfort.
How can I identify storm chasers versus legitimate roofing contractors after a hurricane?
Storm chasers typically go door-to-door immediately after storms, pressure you to sign contracts quickly, request large upfront payments, or lack local addresses and verifiable credentials. Legitimate contractors have established local businesses, provide references, never pressure immediate decisions, and carry proper licensing and insurance that you can independently verify through state databases.
What type of storm damage is typically covered by homeowners insurance?
Standard policies generally cover sudden, accidental damage from wind, hail, falling trees, and flying debris. However, they typically exclude damage from flooding, storm surge, or gradual deterioration from lack of maintenance. Wind-driven rain entering through storm-created openings is usually covered, but pre-existing leaks are not. Review your policy for specific exclusions and consider separate flood insurance.
