Hurricane Roof Damage: What to Do After the Storm

Quick Answer

Post-Hurricane Safety Assessment: First Actions

Step 1: Wait for Official All-Clear (Safety First)

Do NOT go outside until:

• Local emergency management issues all-clear
• Winds below 40 mph sustained
• No active storm surge or flooding
• Daylight hours (never assess at night)

Dangers after hurricane:

• Downed power lines (can look harmless, are deadly)
• Weakened trees/branches ready to fall
• Flooded roadways (6 inches moving water can sweep car)
• Debris with sharp edges/nails
• Carbon monoxide from generators

Step 2: Quick Exterior Walk-Around (15 minutes)

From ground level only, check for:

Immediate dangers:

• Roof sections completely missing
• Hanging gutters/fascia
• Tree branches on roof
• Tarps flapping loose
• Standing water pooling on roof (flat roofs)

Document with phone camera:

• All four sides of house
• Close-ups of damage
• Wide shots showing full property
• Neighbor’s property damage (context for insurance)
• Street conditions (debris, trees down)

Take 50-100 photos minimum - more is better for claims

Step 3: Interior Damage Check (30 minutes)

Walk through entire house looking for:

• Active leaks (place buckets immediately)
• Ceiling water stains
• Bulging ceilings (indicates pooled water)
• Window damage/water intrusion
• Wet walls or flooring
• Attic leaks (check if safe to access)

Document each issue:

• Photo/video from multiple angles
• Measurements of affected areas
• Time-stamped images
• Video walkthrough with narration

Post-Hurricane Roof Damage Inspection Checklist

Exterior Roof Assessment (From Ground)

Use binoculars for detailed viewing - do NOT climb on roof after hurricane.

Shingle Roofs - Check for:

• Missing shingles (count visible areas)
• Lifted/bent shingles
• Granule loss (bare spots)
• Cracked or broken shingles
• Shingles in yard or gutters
• Exposed underlayment (black paper visible)
• Damaged ridge caps
• Nail pops (shingles raised by lifted nails)

Metal Roofs - Check for:

• Dented panels (from hail/debris)
• Lifted seams
• Missing fasteners/screws
• Separated flashing
• Punctures or tears
• Paint damage (may indicate impact)

Tile Roofs - Check for:

• Broken/cracked tiles
• Displaced tiles (slid out of position)
• Missing tiles
• Exposed underlayment
• Ridge cap damage
• Tiles in yard or gutters

All Roof Types - Check:

• Chimney damage (leaning, cracks, missing bricks)
• Chimney flashing separated
• Vent pipes damaged/missing caps
• Skylights cracked or lifted
• Gutters damaged/detached
• Fascia/soffit damage
• Valleys damaged or debris-filled

Interior Assessment

Attic Inspection (if safe to access):

• Daylight visible through roof (immediate tarp needed)
• Water stains on decking
• Wet insulation
• Sagging decking
• Truss damage
• Water pooling
• Mold smell

Living Spaces:

• Ceiling water stains
• Bulging/sagging ceilings
• Wet walls
• Window leaks
• Floor water damage
• Electrical fixtures with water

Emergency Temporary Repairs: Stop Further Damage

When to Tarp vs When to Wait

Tarp IMMEDIATELY if:

• Missing shingles with exposed decking
• Holes punched through roof
• Sections of roof blown off
• Active leaks with rain forecast within 48 hours
• Visible daylight through attic

Can wait for professional if:

• Minor shingle damage with no leaks
• No rain forecast for 3+ days
• Damage is cosmetic only
• You have appointment scheduled within 48 hours

DIY Temporary Tarping (Only if Safe)

Safety requirements:

• Dry weather, daylight only
• Low-pitch roof (under 6/12)
• Helper/spotter present
• Non-slip shoes
• No power lines near work area
• Stable ladder

Materials needed:

• Heavy-duty tarp (6-10 mil thickness, silver/blue)
• 2×4 boards (8-10 feet long)
• Sandbags or tarp weights
• Rope or bungee cords
• Work gloves

Installation steps:

1. Measure damaged area + 4 feet all directions
2. Spread tarp over damage, extending well past it
3. Tuck upper edge under shingles if possible
4. Anchor with 2×4 boards on top (don’t nail through roof)
5. Secure with sandbags at edges
6. Check tarp every 12 hours, re-secure if loosened

Cost to DIY: $100-300 (materials)

Cost for professional: $300-800 (labor + materials)

Rain Right policy: Free emergency tarping if you contract repairs with us

Call Emergency Roofer

24/7 Emergency service: (813) 555-ROOF

We provide:

• 2-4 hour response time post-hurricane (when safe to operate)
• Professional tarping (larger tarps, better securing)
• Immediate damage assessment
• Insurance documentation
• Temporary waterproofing
• Priority scheduling for permanent repairs

Average post-hurricane wait: 1-3 weeks for permanent repairs (high demand)

Florida Hurricane Insurance Claims Process

Timeline: Critical Deadlines

Within 72 hours of storm:

• File claim with insurance company (phone, app, or website)
• Document all damage (photos/video)
• Begin emergency mitigation (tarping, water extraction)

Within 7 days:

• Adjuster assigned (may take longer during major storm)
• Continue documenting damage
• Get independent professional inspection

Within 14 days:

• Adjuster inspection occurs
• Receive initial settlement offer
• Review offer with contractor

Within 30 days:

• Negotiate supplements if initial offer too low
• Sign contracts for repairs
• Begin work (or schedule)

Step-by-Step Claims Process

Step 1: File Your Claim Immediately

How to file:

• Call insurance company claims hotline (24/7)
• Or file online through carrier app/website
• Or call your agent (they’ll file for you)

Information you’ll need:

• Policy number
• Date and time of storm
• Description of damage
• Current contact info
• Temporary housing needs (if applicable)

What insurance asks:

• “Was anyone injured?” (no vs yes changes process)
• “Is home habitable?” (affects temporary housing coverage)
• “Did you take emergency mitigation steps?” (tarping, etc.)

Step 2: Document Everything

Before ANY cleanup:

• Photos/video of all damage (100+ photos)
• Date/time stamps on images
• Video walkthrough with narration

Keep all receipts for:

• Emergency tarping
• Water extraction
• Temporary repairs
• Hotel stays (if home uninhabitable)
• Meals (if kitchen unusable)
• Storage (if contents need protecting)

Create damage log:

• Date/time discovered
• Description
• Photos reference
• Estimated cost

Step 3: Get Independent Inspection

Hire your own roofer for assessment:

• Insurance adjuster works for insurance company
• Your contractor works for you
• Having independent estimate strengthens negotiation

Professional inspection provides:

• Detailed damage scope (often finds more than adjuster)
• Accurate repair cost estimate
• Code upgrade requirements
• Timeline for repairs

Cost: $200-400 (usually credited toward repair if you hire them)

Rain Right offers: Free hurricane damage inspection (credited to repairs)

Step 4: Meet with Insurance Adjuster

Typical timeline: 7-14 days after claim filed (longer for major storms)

During adjuster visit:

• Walk them through all damage
• Point out issues they might miss
• Have your contractor present (if possible)
• Take notes on what adjuster documents
• Get business card and contact info

Common adjuster mistakes:

• Underestimate square footage
• Miss interior damage
• Don’t account for code upgrades
• Lowball labor rates
• Use incorrect materials pricing

Your rights:

• You can have contractor present
• You can take photos during inspection
• You can request second inspection
• You can dispute their assessment

Step 5: Review Initial Settlement Offer

Typical offer includes:

• Roof repair/replacement cost
• Interior damage (if applicable)
• Temporary repairs reimbursement
• Depreciation deduction (if applicable)

Florida roof depreciation:

• Roofs 0-10 years: Full RCV (replacement cost value)
• Roofs 10-15 years: May have ACV (actual cash value) with recoverable depreciation
• Roofs 15+ years: Often ACV only (depreciated value)

Example depreciation:

• Roof replacement cost: $18,000
• 15-year-old roof, 50% depreciation: Initial payout $9,000
• After completion: Recover remaining $9,000 (if RCV policy)

Understand your deductible:

• Hurricane deductible: 2-10% of dwelling coverage (per storm)
• $300,000 dwelling, 2% deductible = $6,000
• $300,000 dwelling, 5% deductible = $15,000

Step 6: Negotiate Supplements (If Needed)

If initial offer too low:

1. Get detailed contractor estimate
2. Submit supplement request with:
   • Itemized cost difference
   • Photos of damage adjuster missed
   • Code requirement documentation
   • Comparable pricing data

Common supplement reasons:

• Hidden damage (discovered during tear-off)
• Decking replacement needs
• Code upgrades required
• Collateral damage (gutters, fascia)

Rain Right provides:

• Free supplement preparation
• Direct insurance company communication
• Additional documentation (photos, scope)
• Negotiation support

Success rate: 70-80% of supplements approved for additional $2,000-8,000

Understanding Florida Hurricane Deductibles

How Hurricane Deductibles Work

Different from regular deductible:

• Regular deductible: Fixed amount ($1,000, $2,500)
• Hurricane deductible: Percentage of dwelling coverage (2-10%)

When hurricane deductible applies:

• Named storm (tropical storm or hurricane)
• Typically triggered when National Weather Service declares hurricane warning
• Applies per storm event (multiple claims from same storm = one deductible)

Example scenarios:

Temporary vs Permanent Repairs

Temporary repairs (tarping, emergency fixes):

• Covered by insurance
• No deductible applied
• Must be “reasonable and necessary”
• Keep all receipts

Permanent repairs:

• Subject to hurricane deductible
• Paid after work completed (usually)
• May receive depreciated value upfront, remainder after completion

Recoverable Depreciation

How it works:

1. Insurance estimates replacement cost: $18,000
2. Applies depreciation (40% for 12-year roof): -$7,200
3. Initial payment (RCV - depreciation - deductible): $18,000 - $7,200 - $6,000 = $4,800
4. After repair completion, you recover depreciation: +$7,200
5. Total received: $12,000 (full $18,000 minus $6,000 deductible)

Important:

• Must complete repairs to recover depreciation
• Must submit proof of completion (receipts, photos)
• Typically have 180-365 days to complete and recover

Common Hurricane Damage Types in Tampa Bay

Wind Damage (Most Common)

Typical damage:

• Lifted/missing shingles
• Blown-off ridge caps
• Damaged flashing
• Lifted metal panels

Wind speed impacts:

• 75-95 mph (Cat 1): Edge shingles lift, some loss
• 96-110 mph (Cat 2): Widespread shingle damage
• 111+ mph (Cat 3+): Significant roof sections lost

Repair cost:

• Minor (under 10% damage): $2,000-6,000
• Moderate (10-30% damage): $6,000-12,000
• Major (over 30% damage): Usually full replacement $15,000-30,000

Debris Impact Damage

Common in Tampa Bay:

• Tree branches through roof
• Shingle damage from flying objects
• Broken tiles from impacts
• Punctured metal panels

Typical repairs:

• Patch small holes: $400-800
• Replace damaged section: $1,500-4,000
• Extensive damage: Full replacement

Water Intrusion Damage

After roof breach:

• Ceiling drywall damage
• Insulation saturation
• Mold growth (if not dried within 48 hours)
• Flooring damage
• Wall damage

Repair costs:

• Ceiling replacement: $800-2,500 per room
• Insulation replacement: $400-1,200
• Mold remediation: $1,500-6,000
• Total interior damage: $3,000-15,000

Pressure Damage (Tornadoes)

Embedded tornadoes in hurricanes:

• Complete roof sections torn off
• Structural truss damage
• Wall damage
• Total loss scenarios

Indicators:

• Irregular damage pattern
• Extreme localized damage
• Nearby properties unaffected

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a hurricane roof damage claim in Florida?

Florida law requires filing hurricane damage claims within 3 years of the storm, but you should file within 72 hours for practical reasons. Insurance companies can deny or reduce claims filed late due to difficulty determining if damage occurred during the storm or later. Additionally, hurricane deductible windows are typically defined by when you file; filing late might miss the storm period designation.

Most insurance companies require prompt notification of damage, and delay can be interpreted as failing your duty to mitigate further damage. During major hurricanes affecting Tampa Bay, insurance companies deploy additional adjusters and fast-track processing, but only for claims filed immediately. Claims filed weeks later face longer processing times (potentially months) and greater scrutiny. Filing within 72 hours ensures documentation clearly links damage to the specific storm event, particularly important if multiple storms occur in the same season.

Emergency temporary repairs should begin immediately without waiting for insurance approval; Florida law requires policyholders to prevent further damage. Document everything before and after temporary repairs with time-stamped photos. We recommend calling your insurance company from the damaged property while documenting, as many carriers now accept video claims via smartphone apps showing real-time damage assessment.

Should I get my own roof inspection after hurricane damage or just wait for the insurance adjuster?

Get your own professional roof inspection before the insurance adjuster arrives. Independent contractors typically identify 20-40% more damage than insurance adjusters because they work for you, not the insurance company. Insurance adjusters often miss hidden damage (underlayment issues, decking damage visible only from inside attic, code upgrade requirements) and may underestimate repair scope to minimize payouts. Having a detailed independent inspection report strengthens your negotiating position.

Our free hurricane damage inspection provides a comprehensive damage assessment including roof-level photos (adjusters often assess from ground), attic inspection for interior damage, decking condition evaluation, and code upgrade identification. We prepare a detailed estimate that serves as your baseline for negotiations. When the adjuster arrives, having your contractor present ensures nothing gets overlooked. Studies show homeowners with contractor representation during adjuster visits receive 15-25% higher settlements.

Additionally, Tampa Bay experiences adjuster shortages after major hurricanes; waiting weeks for an adjuster while roof remains vulnerable causes additional damage that insurance may deny as “failure to mitigate.” An independent inspection allows you to make informed decisions about emergency repairs while waiting for claims processing. The inspection cost ($200-400) is typically credited toward repairs if you hire the contractor, and improved settlements average $3,000-7,000 more than going without representation.

What’s the difference between hurricane deductible and regular deductible in Florida?

Hurricane deductibles in Florida are percentage-based (typically 2-10% of your dwelling coverage amount) while regular deductibles are fixed dollar amounts ($500-$2,500). Hurricane deductibles only apply when specific trigger events occur, usually when the National Weather Service issues a hurricane warning for your county or when a tropical storm/hurricane affects your area. Regular deductibles apply to all other covered perils like fire, theft, or non-hurricane wind damage.

For example, a $300,000 home with a 2% hurricane deductible and $1,000 regular deductible pays $6,000 out-of-pocket for hurricane damage but only $1,000 for a roof leak from a regular thunderstorm. This can be substantial; a 5% hurricane deductible on that same home is $15,000, and some coastal Florida policies have 10% deductibles ($30,000). The hurricane deductible applies once per storm event, so multiple claims from the same hurricane count as one deductible.

Florida law defines when hurricane deductibles trigger and end, typically from when the National Weather Service posts a hurricane warning until 72 hours after it’s lifted for your area. If your roof was damaged during the warning period, hurricane deductible applies; damage discovered days after the warning expires might qualify for regular deductible if you can prove it occurred outside the hurricane period. Review your policy’s hurricane deductible trigger language carefully; some use different definitions (landfall within X miles, wind speed thresholds).

Can I choose my own roofing contractor for insurance claims?

Yes, Florida law guarantees your right to choose your own roofing contractor for insurance repairs. Insurance companies cannot require you to use their “preferred” or “network” contractors, though they may suggest them. Using your chosen contractor ensures they work for your interests, not the insurance company’s cost-minimization goals. Insurance company preferred contractors often have agreements to limit supplement requests and may use lower-cost materials or faster installation methods.

Your insurance company must pay fair market rates for repairs regardless of which contractor you choose. If your contractor’s estimate is higher than the insurance assessment, you can submit a supplement request with detailed justification. Most discrepancies are resolved through negotiation; significant differences may require independent appraisal (your insurance policy outlines this dispute resolution process).

Choosing your contractor provides several advantages: you control quality standards, you can establish direct communication without insurance company mediation, you can ensure warranty terms meet your needs, and you can verify contractor licensing and experience. We recommend selecting a Florida-licensed contractor with specific hurricane repair experience, verifiable local references, and a permanent business location (avoid storm-chasing contractors who appear after hurricanes and disappear after).

If you’ve already received an insurance settlement check with a contractor’s name on it, you can still change contractors. The check endorsement doesn’t create a binding contract; you just need the named contractor to sign off or request a new check from your insurance company. Never let insurance pressure tactics force you into using a contractor you haven’t vetted.

How much does hurricane roof repair cost in Tampa Bay?

Hurricane roof repair costs in Tampa Bay range from $2,000-$30,000+ depending on damage extent, with most homeowners spending $8,000-$15,000 for moderate hurricane damage. Minor repairs (under 10% of roof affected, shingle replacement and flashing) cost $2,000-6,000. Moderate damage (10-30% affected, multiple sections, some decking replacement) costs $6,000-15,000. Severe damage (over 30% affected or structural issues) usually requires full replacement at $15,000-30,000 depending on size and material.

Specific repair costs: replacing blown-off shingles $400-600 per square (100 sq ft), valley reconstruction $800-1,500, chimney flashing replacement $600-1,200, decking replacement $50-80 per sheet, ridge cap replacement $400-800, emergency tarping $300-800. Interior damage adds substantially: ceiling drywall $800-2,500 per room, mold remediation $1,500-6,000, insulation replacement $400-1,200, flooring damage $2,000-8,000.

After major Tampa Bay hurricanes (like 2024 Hurricane Milton), average claim payouts were $12,500 for roof damage plus interior repairs. Hurricane deductibles significantly impact out-of-pocket costs; with a $6,000 deductible on a $14,000 repair, homeowner pays $6,000 and insurance pays $8,000. Some damage doesn’t exceed deductibles, requiring full homeowner payment. Impact-resistant roofing, while costing 10-15% more during replacement, often sustains 40-60% less hurricane damage, making it cost-effective long-term.

What should I do if my roof is leaking after a hurricane?

If your roof is leaking after a hurricane, take immediate action to prevent escalating damage. First, protect interior belongings by moving valuables away from leaks and placing buckets/containers under active drips. Document everything with photos and video before any cleanup showing active leaks, ceiling damage, and affected belongings. Then call an emergency roofer immediately for temporary tarping; waiting even 6-12 hours causes additional thousands in water damage to ceilings, insulation, and belongings.

Turn off electricity to affected rooms if water is near outlets or light fixtures to prevent electrocution or fire. If ceiling is bulging with pooled water, carefully poke a small drainage hole in the center with a screwdriver and place a bucket underneath; this prevents catastrophic ceiling collapse and more expensive repairs. Do not attempt to climb on your roof during or immediately after a hurricane; wet conditions combined with potential structural damage and debris make this extremely dangerous.

Professional emergency tarping ($300-800, often provided free by contractors if you hire them for repairs) stops further water intrusion while you work through the insurance claims process. File your insurance claim within 72 hours of the storm even if temporary repairs are incomplete; prompt filing ensures damage is clearly linked to the hurricane event. Keep all receipts for emergency repairs, water extraction, dehumidifiers, and temporary housing if needed; insurance reimburses these mitigation expenses.

Do not wait for insurance adjuster approval before making emergency repairs; Florida law requires policyholders to prevent further damage, and insurance companies expect immediate mitigation. Document the pre-repair damage thoroughly, get emergency repairs done, then coordinate permanent repairs after insurance assessment. Our 24/7 emergency service (813-555-ROOF) provides immediate response with temporary weatherproofing and insurance documentation support.

Should I repair or replace my roof after hurricane damage?

The decision between repair and replacement after hurricane damage depends on damage extent, roof age, and insurance coverage. Replace if damage exceeds 30% of roof area, roof is over 15 years old, widespread decking damage is present, or if insurance authorizes full replacement. Repair if damage is isolated (under 25% of roof), roof is relatively new (under 10 years), structural integrity is intact, and repairs restore full functionality.

Florida building codes influence this decision; some jurisdictions require full replacement if repairs exceed 25-50% of roof area or value. Insurance companies typically authorize replacement when repair costs exceed 40-50% of replacement cost. For example, if replacement costs $18,000 and repairs would cost $9,000, many insurers approve replacement as it’s more cost-effective long-term and ensures code compliance.

Consider roof age and condition; repairing a 14-year-old roof with 30% hurricane damage might get you 3-4 more years before full replacement is needed anyway, costing more long-term than replacing now. New roofs also qualify for better insurance rates (15-20% premium reduction with impact-resistant shingles) and modern materials offer superior hurricane resistance. If your insurance settlement covers full replacement, take advantage; repairing and pocketing the difference often leads to inadequate repairs and continued problems.

We provide honest assessments including “repair vs replace” analysis with 5-year cost projections, insurance implications, and value considerations. During hurricane season, material prices may increase 10-20% due to demand, but insurance typically covers prevailing market rates. If borderline between repair and replacement, get multiple professional opinions and review your insurance policy’s roof age depreciation schedule.

Will insurance pay for roof replacement if damage is from an old hurricane?

Insurance will only pay for hurricane damage from recent storms, not damage discovered months or years after a hurricane. Florida insurance policies require prompt notification of loss, typically within the policy’s claim filing period (often 1-2 years legally, but practically within weeks). If you discover hurricane damage months later that you weren’t aware of immediately after the storm, coverage becomes questionable and insurance companies scrutinize these claims heavily.

However, hidden damage discovered during repairs for acknowledged hurricane damage is typically covered. For example, if a hurricane damaged your shingles (claim filed promptly) and during repair your contractor discovers decking damage that wasn’t visible initially, this is usually covered under the original claim through a supplement request. The key is establishing the damage occurred during the specific storm event.

If you had a hurricane in 2024, didn’t notice or report roof damage, and now in 2025 or 2026 you have leaks and want to claim it was from that old storm, insurance will likely deny the claim. They’ll argue you failed your duty to inspect, failed to mitigate damage, or that the damage is from wear and tear or subsequent events. Insurance investigators use weather data, material aging analysis, and damage patterns to determine when damage occurred.

Best practice: inspect your roof and file claims immediately after any hurricane affecting Tampa Bay, even for seemingly minor damage. Small issues left unreported and unrepaired worsen over time; insurance won’t pay for deterioration resulting from your failure to address initial damage. Annual roof inspections ($150-250) help identify hurricane damage you might have missed and establish baseline condition for future claims. If you suspect old hurricane damage was never addressed, consult a contractor for damage dating analysis, but don’t expect insurance coverage for long-past storms.

How can I prevent hurricane roof damage in Tampa Bay?

Preventing hurricane roof damage in Tampa Bay requires proactive upgrades, regular maintenance, and pre-storm preparation. The most effective prevention is installing impact-resistant roofing rated for 130+ mph winds; these materials cost 10-15% more ($1,500-3,000 additional for average home) but sustain 40-60% less damage during hurricanes and qualify for 15-20% insurance discounts that recoup the cost in 4-6 years. Metal roofs perform exceptionally well in hurricanes with 150-180 mph ratings, though they cost 2-3x more than shingles upfront.

Ensure proper installation with enhanced hurricane strapping connecting roof to structure. Many older Tampa Bay homes lack adequate strapping; retrofitting costs $2,000-5,000 but dramatically improves wind resistance and qualifies for insurance wind mitigation credits (10-15% premium reduction). Sealed roof deck (plywood joints sealed with construction adhesive during installation) prevents water infiltration if shingles lift; this adds minimal cost during roof replacement but is expensive to retrofit.

Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming catastrophic during storms. Schedule annual professional inspections ($150-250) identifying vulnerable areas like loose shingles, deteriorated flashing, or damaged seals around penetrations. Replace shingles immediately when damaged rather than waiting; a single missing shingle becomes an entry point for hurricane-force rain. Ensure gutters are secure and functional; loose gutters become projectiles damaging your roof and neighbors’ properties.

Pre-hurricane season preparation (April-May annually): trim trees maintaining 10+ feet clearance from roof, repair any damaged shingles or flashing, verify attic ventilation is adequate, check and reseal chimney flashing, and document roof condition with photos for insurance purposes. Consider professional wind mitigation inspection ($150-300) documenting all hurricane-resistant features; this report unlocks maximum insurance discounts and serves as proof of proper installation if you ever need to file a claim.