Storms & hurricanes

What to Do After a Hurricane Damages Your Roof

Updated September 27, 2026 · Sabine Crest editorial

Short answerStay safe first, then tarp openings, photograph everything, report the claim to the right insurer (TWIA for wind in Jefferson and Chambers counties; homeowners elsewhere; flood insurance for rising water), and hire a local, insured roofer who pulls permits.

Aerial view of homes damaged by a hurricane

1. Safety

Watch for downed lines and damaged trees. Don't go on the roof. If there's standing water inside, turn off power to affected areas.

2. Stop more damage

Get emergency roof tarping installed. Keep every receipt.

3. Document

Photos and video of every slope you can see, every ceiling stain and all debris, before anything is cleaned up.

4. File with the right insurer

In TWIA's coastal counties, wind and hail usually go to TWIA; flood goes to your flood policy. In Orange and Hardin counties, wind is usually on the homeowners policy, often with a named-storm deductible.

5. Choose a roofer carefully

Local address and references
Proof of liability insurance
Written contract and permit
No large upfront cash deposit
No offer to cover your deductible

Avoiding problems after a big storm

After a hurricane, out-of-area crews arrive quickly. Check that any roofer is insured, has local references, pulls the city permit and can provide the TDI windstorm inspection needed for WPI-8 certification in the designated catastrophe area. Never sign a contract that assigns your claim or asks for full payment up front.