Storms & hurricanes
How to Tell If Your Roof Has Storm Damage
Updated · Sabine Crest editorial
From the ground (safe)
- Shingles in the yard
- Dark patches or exposed underlayment
- Dented gutters, downspouts or AC fins
- Granules piling up at downspouts
- Leaning or missing ridge caps
Inside
New ceiling stains, damp attic insulation or daylight through the decking.
Wind vs. hail
Wind damage is directional and concentrated at edges and ridges. Hail is random across a slope. Adjusters handle them differently, so the roofer's photos should show which it is. More on wind damage and hail damage.
Don't climb up
Storm-damaged roofs are slippery and may have weakened decking. Leave the up-close inspection to a roofer with fall protection.
Documenting it for an insurance claim
Photograph the roof from the ground, damaged gutters, dented vents or metal, and any interior stains, with the date. A roofer's inspection report with close-up photos, marked test squares for hail and measurements gives your adjuster a scope to compare against.
How to Tell If Your Roof Has Storm Damage: follow-up questions
How soon after a storm should I have my roof inspected?
As soon as practical. Claims have filing deadlines, and hidden damage can let water in during the next storm.
Can hail damage be invisible from the ground?
Often, yes. Hail bruises and granule loss on shingles are usually only visible up close.
Every home differs; editorial standards.