Roofing Contractor Guide to Storm Damage: What to Do in the First 48 Hours

A strong storm can tear off shingles, knock down branches, and let water into places it should never reach. After the storm passes, the next 48 hours are very important. The steps you take right away can lower damage, protect your home, and speed up repairs. Here is a simple guide to help you stay safe and make smart choices after storm damage.

First: Stay Safe Before You Check Anything

Before you walk outside, look for danger. Downed power lines, broken glass, and loose tree limbs can hurt you. If you see a power line on the ground, stay far away and call your utility company. Do not climb on your roof, even if the damage looks small. Wet shingles are slippery, and weak spots could collapse. Let professionals check the roof.

Inspect From the Ground

When it is safe, look at your roof from the ground. Walk around your home and check for:

• Missing or lifted shingles
  
• Roofing pieces in the yard
  
• Bent or loose gutters
  
• Damaged flashing around vents or chimneys
  
• Fallen branches on the roof
  

Use binoculars if you have them. If you see a hole, a sagging area, or a big section missing, treat it as urgent.

Stop Water From Getting Worse

If water is leaking inside, place buckets under the leaks and move furniture away. Use towels or plastic covers to protect floors and items. If you can safely reach the attic, look for dripping water or wet insulation. Do not touch electrical wires or lights near water.

Only use safe, temporary fixes from inside the house. Do not try to patch the roof yourself. A bad DIY fix can make the damage worse and may affect your insurance claim.

Take Photos and Notes

Document everything. Take wide photos of the roof, close-ups of damage, and pictures of any leaks or stains inside. Take photos of fallen branches and debris, too. Write down the time of the storm and what you noticed first. This will help with your insurance claim.

Call Your Insurance and a Roofing Contractor

Call your insurance company soon to report the damage. Ask what they need and what steps to follow. Then contact a roofing contractor for an inspection. A skilled roofer can find hidden damage, explain repair options, and give you written proof for your claim.

Avoid Storm-Chaser Scams

After big storms, some crews show up offering fast and cheap repairs. Be careful. Do not sign anything right away. Avoid cash-only offers or pressure to decide the same day. A trusted contractor will explain the work clearly and give you time to think.

Get Help Fast with RoofElite

Storm damage can spread quickly, so the right team matters. If your roof was hit and you want a safe, honest inspection and repairs that last, get the service from RoofElite. We respond quickly, document damage clearly, and guide you through the repair and insurance process—so we can protect your home in those critical first 48 hours and beyond.

This post was written by a professional at RoofElite. RoofElite is one of the top roofing contractors Odessa FL, proudly serving Central Florida with fully licensed and insured service. As licensed roofers near you, we specialize in metal, shingle, tile, and flat roofing. Known for exceptional craftsmanship and lasting results, we’re among the best roofers near you for installation, repairs, and more. Trust RoofElite for durable, high-quality roofing solutions.