What to Do After a Storm Damages Your Roof

After a storm damages your roof, stay safe first, then stop active leaks, photograph all of the damage, call your insurance company and schedule a professional roof inspection. Acting quickly prevents water from spreading into insulation, drywall and framing, and good documentation makes your insurance claim go much more smoothly.

Step 1: Stay safe

Never climb onto a wet or damaged roof. Stay clear of downed power lines and fallen branches, and keep everyone away from sagging ceilings.

Step 2: Stop the water

Place buckets under drips, move valuables and electronics away from leaks and, if a ceiling is bulging with water, poke a small hole to let it drain into a bucket. Call a roofer for emergency tarping as soon as it is safe.

Step 3: Document everything

• Photograph missing shingles, fallen trees and debris from the ground

• Take photos and videos of every interior stain, drip and damaged item

• Write down the date and time of the storm

• Keep receipts for tarps, cleanup and temporary repairs

Step 4: Call your insurance company

Report the claim quickly. Most policies require prompt notice, and your insurer will schedule an adjuster to inspect the damage.

Step 5: Get a professional roof inspection

A roofer can spot damage you cannot see from the ground, such as creased shingles, lifted flashing and cracked pipe boots. At Top 1 Roofing we photograph every problem, provide a detailed estimate and can meet your adjuster on the roof.

Need help right now?

Our crews provide 24/7 emergency roof repair across Central New Jersey. Call us any time and we will tarp active leaks the same day or night.