What to Do After Hail or Wind Damages Your Roof

After a strong hail or wind event, focus first on safety and preventing additional damage. You do not need to decide immediately whether the roof requires repair or replacement.

1. Check for immediate hazards

Stay clear of fallen trees, damaged electrical service, loose exterior materials and areas where debris may still fall. Do not climb onto the roof during or immediately after severe weather.

2. Look for signs of active water entry

Check ceilings, upper walls and safely accessible attic areas. If water is entering, move belongings away and use containers where practical. Call for emergency help if the situation cannot be safely controlled from inside.

3. Document what you can see

Take time-stamped photos or video from the ground and inside the home. Record the storm date, approximate time and the areas affected. Keep receipts for reasonable temporary protection or cleanup work.

4. Arrange a qualified exterior assessment

Wind damage can include missing, lifted or creased shingles. Hail may affect shingles, metal flashings, vents, gutters and siding differently. A proper assessment looks at the complete exterior and documents visible conditions without promising what an insurer will cover.

5. Contact your insurer when a claim may be needed

Your insurer decides coverage. Ask about reporting deadlines, emergency work, deductibles and the documentation they require. Avoid authorizing a full replacement solely because someone appeared at the door after a storm.

6. Separate temporary protection from permanent repair

A tarp or stabilization measure can reduce immediate exposure, but it is not a permanent roofing repair. The final scope should address the damaged material, flashings and surrounding roof condition.

AdaptiBuild provides storm-damage inspections and restoration work across Cranbrook and the East Kootenay, with photographs and a clear explanation of the construction scope.