What to Do After Storm Damage: A Homeowner's Guide

Metro Atlanta sees its share of severe weather—from powerful thunderstorms and hail to the occasional tornado. When a storm damages your roof, knowing what to do next can mean the difference between a smooth repair process and a prolonged nightmare.

Immediately After the Storm

1. Ensure Everyone's Safety

Before worrying about your roof, make sure everyone in your household is safe. If you suspect structural damage, evacuate and call emergency services. Never enter a building with visible structural damage.

2. Document the Damage

Once it's safe, start documenting. Take photos and videos of all visible damage—from the ground level only. Don't climb onto your roof after a storm; it may be structurally compromised, and wet surfaces are extremely slippery.

• •Photograph damage to your roof, siding, windows, and gutters
• •Document fallen trees or large debris
• •Take photos of any interior water damage
• •Note the date and time of the storm
• •Save any weather alerts or news reports about the storm

3. Prevent Further Damage

If water is entering your home, do what you can to minimize damage. Place buckets under leaks, move furniture away from wet areas, and use towels to absorb water. If it's safe to do so, cover broken windows with plastic sheeting.

For significant roof damage, a professional can install a temporary tarp to prevent water intrusion until permanent repairs can be made. This is called emergency tarping and is a service we provide 24/7 in metro Atlanta.

Assessing the Damage

Signs of Roof Storm Damage

• •Missing, cracked, or torn shingles
• •Dents or dimples in metal flashing, vents, or gutters (indicates hail)
• •Granules collecting in gutters or at downspout exits
• •Exposed roof deck or underlayment
• •Damaged or displaced ridge caps
• •Dented or damaged skylights
• •Debris impacts visible on shingles

Interior Warning Signs

• •Water stains on ceilings or walls
• •Dripping water during or after rain
• •Damp or musty smells in the attic
• •Daylight visible through roof boards
• •Wet insulation in the attic

Filing an Insurance Claim

Most homeowner's insurance policies cover storm damage, but navigating the claims process can be challenging. Here's how to maximize your chances of a successful claim:

• •Contact your insurance company promptly to report the damage
• •Keep all documentation: photos, videos, receipts for emergency repairs
• •Don't make permanent repairs until the adjuster has inspected
• •Get a professional roofing inspection and written estimate
• •Be present when the insurance adjuster visits
• •Don't sign anything from the insurance company without understanding it fully

A reputable roofing contractor can work with your insurance adjuster to ensure all damage is properly documented and included in your claim. At First Response Home Services, we have extensive experience working with insurance companies on storm damage claims.

Choosing a Storm Damage Repair Contractor

After major storms, Atlanta sees an influx of out-of-state "storm chasers"—contractors who follow severe weather to capitalize on homeowners' urgency. While some are legitimate, many provide subpar work and disappear before problems emerge.

• •Choose a local contractor with an established presence in metro Atlanta
• •Verify Georgia contractor licensing and insurance
• •Check reviews on Google, BBB, and other platforms
• •Get everything in writing before work begins
• •Never pay the full amount upfront
• •Ask about warranties on both materials and labor

At First Response Home Services, we're a local Atlanta company that's been serving our community for years. We stand behind our work because we're your neighbors—we're not going anywhere.