It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You’re staring at missing shingles, leaks, or even a gaping hole in the ceiling. The weather doesn’t wait, and neither should you.

The longer you delay repairs, the worse it gets. Water damage can lead to mould, structural decay, and costly restoration work. So how do you take control quickly and effectively?

Here’s a practical guide to help you respond to storm damage—and how a professional roofing company can make all the difference.

How to Spot Roof Damage After a Storm

You don’t always need to climb a ladder to know something’s wrong.

Ask yourself:

Did the storm bring high winds or hail?
Are there broken branches or debris on the ground?
Can you see anything unusual from inside the house?

Look out for these signs:

Missing or lifted tiles/shingles – especially after strong wind gusts.
Leaks or water stains on ceilings or walls.
Granules in gutters – a sign of deteriorating asphalt shingles.
Sagging sections of the roofline.
Daylight showing through the loft.

Pro Tip: Use binoculars to inspect the roof from the ground. It’s safer and often just as effective.

What You Should Do Immediately

Damage confirmed? Don’t panic. But don’t wait, either. Here’s what to do right away:

Stay safe – Don’t walk on the roof. Wet or damaged surfaces are extremely slippery.
Document everything – Take clear photos and videos from different angles. These are vital for insurance claims.
Cover exposed areas – Use a waterproof tarp if it’s safe to do so. This can limit water intrusion.
Call your insurance provider – Report the damage as soon as possible. Ask them what evidence they need.
Contact a professional roofing company – The sooner they assess the damage, the better your outcome.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Roof damage isn’t just a visual problem. It can spread fast.

Here’s what can happen within days:

Water soaks insulation – leading to higher energy bills and reduced comfort.
Mould and mildew form – affecting air quality and health.
Wood structures warp – potentially compromising your home’s integrity.
Pests move in – small roof gaps can become entry points for rodents or insects.

A study by the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings found that damp-related repairs cost UK homeowners an average of £3,800—often much more if the problem is left unchecked.

How a Roofing Company Can Help

A reputable roofing company does far more than patch things up. They bring experience, safety, and long-term solutions.

Here’s what they’ll do:

1. Emergency Response

Rapid assessment – Professionals can be on-site within hours in many cases.
Temporary protection – Tarps, covers, or boarding up affected areas to prevent further damage.
Safety checks – Ensuring structural stability and electrical safety if leaks reach wiring.

2. Detailed Roof Inspection

A proper inspection goes beyond what you can see.

Roofers will:

Use drone technology or thermal imaging to detect hidden leaks.
Inspect flashing, chimneys, skylights, and guttering for subtle damage.
Provide a detailed report for your insurance company.

This ensures you claim for everything—not just what’s visible.

3. Insurance Liaison

Dealing with insurers can be stressful. Roofing companies often work directly with claims adjusters.

They can:

Provide clear repair quotes.
Help justify the full scope of damage.
Ensure you don’t miss out on valid claim entitlements.

Some companies even offer assistance filing your claim or recommend trusted loss assessors.

4. Expert Repairs and Restoration

Not all damage is equal. A skilled roofing contractor tailors the fix to your roof’s material, age, and style.

Repairs may include:

Replacing broken or missing tiles – with matching products when possible.
Re-sealing joints and flashing – to prevent future leaks.
Reinforcing roof structure – if internal damage is found.

Example: In 2022, a roofing company in Manchester restored a 1920s slate roof after a hailstorm. They not only replaced cracked tiles but also upgraded the underlay and insulation, improving energy efficiency.

5. Preventative Advice

After repairs, many roofers offer guidance to help you prepare for future storms.

They might suggest:

Installing storm clips or better fasteners.
Trimming overhanging trees.
Adding roof vents to reduce moisture buildup.

Think of it as storm-proofing, not just storm-repairing.

Choosing the Right Roofing Company

Not all roofing firms are equal, choosing the right roofing company is important. Storm damage attracts “cowboy builders” offering quick fixes that don’t last.

Ask these questions before hiring:

Are they licensed and insured?
Can they provide references or photos of recent work?
Do they offer a written guarantee?
Are they familiar with insurance claims processes?

Look for companies registered with trade bodies like the NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) or TrustMark.

Online reviews can help, but real-world recommendations are even better.

Should You Consider a Full Roof Replacement?

Sometimes, patching isn’t enough. Especially if:

Your roof is over 20 years old.
Multiple layers of patchwork already exist.
There’s structural damage beneath the surface.

An expert and experienced roofing company can advise if a full replacement is more cost-effective in the long run. Some insurers may even cover this, depending on your policy and the damage extent.

Bonus: Modern roofing systems can reduce heat loss and boost your home’s resale value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s save you some regret. Avoid these all-too-common slip-ups:

Waiting too long to call a roofer or insurer.
Doing DIY repairs without proper training or tools.
Accepting the first quote without comparison.
Not reading the warranty terms on repairs or replacements.
Ignoring minor issues like small leaks—these rarely stay small.

Remember: Every storm is different. What worked last time may not work again.

A Storm-Damaged Roof Doesn’t Have To Be a Nightmare

Storms are stressful. But you’re not powerless.

By acting quickly, documenting properly, and calling in professionals, you protect your home and your finances.

Ask yourself:

Is your roof ready for the next storm?
Do you know who you’d call if damage struck tonight?

If not, now’s the time to find a trustworthy roofing company in your area. Save their number. Check your insurance policy. Prepare in advance.

Because when the wind howls and the rain pounds, preparation is peace of mind.

What To Do If a Storm Damages Your Roof (And How a Roofing Company Can Help)