What should you do first after a storm hits your roof?
Stay calm and work through the list in order.
- Put safety first. Do not climb onto a storm-damaged roof. Stay out of rooms with sagging ceilings and keep clear of downed power lines.
- Take photos. Photograph the damage from the ground, any fallen limbs and any stains or drips inside. Note the date.
- Limit further damage. Move belongings away from leaks and catch drips with buckets.
- Arrange temporary protection. Tarps or boards over exposed areas should be fitted by a roofer, not by you on a wet roof.
- Contact your insurer. Report the loss and ask what they need. Keep receipts for any emergency work.
- Get a written assessment. Ask for a description of the damage and the proposed repair before you sign anything.
For smaller problems that are not storm related, see roof repair.

