What To Do, Step By Step
In order:
Stay safe first. Keep away from anything hanging loose, and never climb onto a storm-damaged roof yourself.
If water is coming in, move belongings, put containers under drips and, if it is safe, move away from affected ceilings. If a ceiling is bulging with water, a small hole can release it in a controlled way, but only do this if you can do so safely.
Switch off electrics in any affected area if water is near lights or sockets, and call an electrician if you are unsure.
Take clear photos and notes of the damage, inside and outside, from the ground or a safe position. Do not take risks to get a better angle.
Contact your insurer to understand what is covered and what they need, and keep any receipts.
Call a qualified roofer to inspect the damage, make the roof safe and carry out a temporary or permanent repair.
Common Types Of Storm Damage
What we typically find after high winds and heavy rain:
Slipped, lifted or missing tiles and slates
Wind can lift and displace covering, leaving gaps for water to get in.
Damaged ridge and hip tiles
Mortar and fixings can be loosened by strong winds.
Torn or displaced flashings
Lead and other flashings around chimneys and junctions can lift or tear.
Damaged chimneys and pots
Exposed stacks can lose mortar, pots or brickwork.
Damaged fascias, soffits and guttering
Wind and falling debris can pull boards and gutters away or crack them.
Flat roof damage
Edges can lift and coverings can tear or blister.
Temporary Repairs And Permanent Repairs
Where the weather is still bad, the priority is stopping water getting in. That may mean a temporary repair such as securing loose covering or protecting an opening, followed by a proper repair once conditions allow.
A good roofer will explain what is a temporary measure and what is the permanent fix, so you and your insurer are clear on both.
Working With Your Insurer
Insurance policies differ, so check yours or call your insurer for what is covered. Photos taken before and after, a written description of the damage and a clear quote or invoice from your roofer all help. We are happy to provide a clear written quote and describe the damage found.
Be wary of anyone who knocks on your door after a storm offering urgent work. Take your time to get a proper inspection and a clear quote from a roofer you can verify.
Free “Is My Roof Failing?” Checklist
A one-page checklist you can use from the ground and the loft to spot the early warning signs. Free to download.
Get The Free ChecklistThe Bottom Line
After a storm, stay safe, limit the damage indoors, document what you can from a safe position and get a qualified roofer to make the roof secure. A calm, ordered approach protects both your home and your insurance position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I go up on the roof to check for damage?
No. Wet, damaged roofs are dangerous, and falls are serious. Look from the ground, take photos and have a qualified roofer inspect it.
Will my insurance cover storm damage?
It depends on your policy. Contact your insurer for what is covered and what they need from you. Photos, notes and a clear quote from your roofer help.
How quickly should I get storm damage fixed?
As soon as it is safe to do so. Even small gaps can let water in, and damp can spread quickly through insulation and timbers. A temporary repair can limit the damage until a permanent one is possible.
Can you do an emergency repair?
We do not run a dedicated 24-hour emergency call-out service, but our phones are on 24 hours. Call us on 07718 226162 or request a call back, tell us what has happened, and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
What if a neighbour’s tiles damaged my roof?
Take photos and notes and contact your insurer for advice on how to proceed. A roofer’s written description of the damage can help.
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Storm Damage? Get It Checked
Call us or request a call back and tell us what has happened. You can also send photos through the quote form.
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