Last night’s storm was a rough one—strong winds, heavy rain, maybe even some hail. Now that it’s passed, you’re left wondering if your roof took the brunt of it.
It’s a common concern here in Northeast Ohio, especially after the kind of weather that can roll in off Lake Erie. Whether you’re in Cleveland, Akron, or anywhere in between, storm damage isn’t always obvious right away—but catching it early can save you thousands in repairs.
Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide on what to do if you think your roof was damaged during a storm—from spotting the warning signs to navigating insurance claims and getting professional help fast.
Assess the Damage Safely From the Ground
Once the skies clear and it’s safe to go outside, take a few minutes to walk around your property and assess the impact of the storm. You don’t need to get on a ladder—just look for clear signs of damage from the ground:
- Shingles that are missing, cracked, or lifted
- Debris scattered across the roof, like branches or tree limbs
- Pieces of flashing or gutter material on the ground
- Hail impact marks on shingles, gutters, or siding
- Granules from asphalt shingles collecting near your downspouts
Storm damage isn’t always dramatic—it can be subtle at first. But even a few dislodged shingles or a small puncture from flying debris can allow water to seep in, leading to bigger problems down the road.
If you’re unsure, take photos of anything that looks suspicious. These will be useful if you decide to file a claim or bring in a professional for a more thorough inspection.
Document Everything with Photos and Notes
Use your smartphone to snap clear pictures of:
- Damaged areas on the roof
- Debris in your yard
- Any leaks or water stains inside
- The date and time of the storm, if possible
This documentation can be extremely helpful when dealing with your insurance company or a roofing contractor later.
Check for Leaks Inside the House
Sometimes, roof damage isn’t visible outside—but your ceiling might tell a different story. Walk through your home and check:
- Ceilings for water rings or sagging
- Attic spaces for damp insulation or visible drips
- Around vents and skylights for moisture intrusion
If anything feels damp or smells musty, it’s likely your roof’s integrity has been compromised.
Call Your Homeowner’s Insurance Provider
File a claim as soon as possible. Insurance companies typically require prompt notification after a storm. Be prepared to provide:
- The date and time of the storm
- A brief summary of the damage
- Photos or video you’ve taken
They may send out an adjuster—or ask you to get a professional roofing inspection first.
Schedule a Storm Damage Roof Inspection
This is where Peak and Valley Roofing comes in.
Our team specializes in post-storm inspections tailored for Northeast Ohio’s weather.
We know what to look for—hail impact areas, wind lift, hidden leaks—and we provide a detailed assessment that you can share with your insurance adjuster.
Don’t Delay Repairs
Even minor roof damage can lead to major problems like mold growth or structural rot if ignored. The sooner you act, the less expensive the fix. Plus, many policies have claim deadlines.
Peak and Valley Roofing provides fast, reliable storm damage repairs and we’ll work directly with your insurance adjuster to make the process seamless.
Northeast Ohio Weather Is No Joke
Storms in our region often bring heavy wind, hail, and ice. It’s critical to act quickly if you even suspect your roof might’ve been damaged.
Taking these steps can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your home stays protected through every season.
Think your roof was damaged in last night’s storm?
Don’t wait—schedule your free storm damage inspection with Peak and Valley Roofing today. We’ll document the damage, assist with your insurance claim, and restore your roof the right way.