Storms in Central Florida can hit hard and fast, often leaving homeowners with serious roof damage. Knowing what to do immediately after storm damage helps protect your property and speeds up your recovery. Whether you live in Orlando, Sanford, Winter Garden, or anywhere nearby, this quick guide walks you through each step with confidence.
Stay Safe and Check for Hazards
Before doing anything, ensure it’s safe. Look for downed power lines, sharp debris, and fallen branches. If you suspect a gas leak or see exposed electrical wires, call emergency services immediately.
Never climb on your roof after a storm—even if the damage looks minor. The structure might be compromised. Gravity Roofing offers emergency roof tarping and professional roof inspections across Central Florida to help you stay safe.
Document the Storm Damage
Once safe, take clear, date-stamped photos and videos of the damage from the ground. Capture everything—missing shingles, debris on the roof, dents in metal flashing, and any water stains or leaks inside.
These images are crucial for your insurance claim. Include wide shots of your entire roof and close-ups of affected areas. Keep a written list of damages to stay organized.
Protect Your Property Inside
If water is entering your home, cover furniture and valuables with plastic sheets or move them to a dry area. Avoid using electronics in wet zones. If it’s safe, try to contain leaks using buckets or towels.
Don’t patch the roof yourself—leave that to the pros. Gravity Roofing provides emergency tarping services throughout Central Florida to help you prevent further storm damage while you wait for repairs.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurer as soon as possible. Let them know about the storm damage and begin your claim. Ask what documents they need, whether an adjuster will visit, and how long the process might take.
Log all calls, keep your claim number handy, and write down the names of everyone you speak with for reference.
Schedule a Roof Inspection with a Local Pro
Once your home is secure, book a full roof inspection. In Central Florida, storm damage isn’t always visible from the ground. Lifted shingles, torn underlayment, and cracked flashing can go unnoticed without a trained eye.
Gravity Roofing’s expert team inspects roofs thoroughly and delivers photo-documented reports you can use for your insurance claim or repair planning.
Create a Storm Damage Roof Repair Plan
Using the inspection report, speak with a storm restoration roofing company. Ask for a detailed estimate that outlines labor, materials, and timelines. Make sure they have experience with storm damage roof repair in Central Florida.
Understand your insurance coverage and what your financial responsibility may be. A clear plan means less stress and faster restoration.
Check for Hidden Damage Later
Sometimes damage doesn’t show up immediately after the storm. Over the next few days, monitor your ceiling for stains, look for musty smells in your attic, and keep an eye on gutters and shingles. Noticing new signs of trouble? Schedule a follow-up inspection—especially after heavy rain. Central Florida’s humidity and weather shifts can reveal hidden roof issues after the fact.
Final Thoughts
Storm damage is stressful, but having a plan makes all the difference. Stay calm, document the damage, and work with trusted professionals like Gravity Roofing. We serve Central Florida communities including Apopka, Kissimmee, and beyond.
If your home’s been affected by storm damage, book an inspection or emergency service today. We’re here to help you repair and restore with peace of mind.
For more tips on hurricane prep, visit Florida Disaster’s official site or check FEMA’s storm readiness page.
