Checking roof damage after a storm

The end of heavy rain does not automatically mean a property is safe to inspect closely. Loose roof material, damaged trees and continued gusts can remain a concern after the most obvious part of a storm has passed.

For homeowners, the useful first check is a cautious observation from a safe place. It is not a reason to put up a ladder or walk beneath a suspect chimney to obtain a better view.

Follow the conditions, not the clock

During strong winds, remain in a safe place and keep away from loose roof material, suspect chimneys and damaged trees. Contact WWR Roofing with observations you can make safely; do not go outside or climb for a better photograph. Roof inspection needs suitable conditions as well as safe access.

If something appears loose above an entrance or path, keep people away and seek professional help. A contractor also needs conditions and access that allow the work to be carried out safely.

Photograph changes without diagnosing them

From a safe viewpoint, record missing or displaced coverings, fallen pieces and any obvious change in gutters or roofline. Include a wider image that identifies the part of the building. Indoors, record new water entry if the area is safe to approach.

A photograph is evidence of appearance at a point in time. It does not establish whether a defect was caused entirely by the storm or reveal the condition of concealed layers. Leave those conclusions to the appropriate assessment.

Keep the repair history available

Previous photographs, maintenance invoices and repair records can help explain the roof’s condition before the event. Share them with the contractor and insurer where relevant, keeping the original files.

Ask any attending contractor to distinguish temporary measures from the permanent work recommended. Record what remains outstanding and any areas that could not be inspected.

For urgent roof enquiries, use our emergency repairs page. The storm damage records guide explains how to keep the evidence and paperwork organised without assuming that a particular insurance claim will be accepted.