Hurricanes and severe thunderstorms are a fact of life in Central Florida. When high winds tear through Orlando, roofs take the first hit. Knowing what to do in the hours and days after a storm can protect your home from further water damage and help your insurance claim go smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step guide for hurricane and storm roof damage in Orlando.
Step 1: Stay Safe First
- Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof.
- Watch for downed power lines and stay away from them.
- If water is coming through a ceiling, turn off electricity to that area and move valuables out of the way.
- If a ceiling is sagging, leave the room. It can collapse under the weight of water.
Step 2: Look for Signs of Roof Damage (From the Ground)
- Missing, lifted, or creased shingles
- Cracked, broken, or displaced roof tiles
- Bent or missing flashing, drip edge, or gutters
- Shingle granules or tile pieces in the yard or gutters
- Fallen tree limbs on the roof
- New water stains on ceilings or walls, or damp insulation in the attic
Some damage isn’t visible from the ground. Lifted shingles can break their seal and leak weeks later, so a professional inspection after any major storm is a smart move.
Step 3: Document Everything
Take clear photos and videos of the roof (from the ground), the yard, and any interior damage before anything is moved or repaired. Note the date and time of the storm. Keep receipts for tarps, emergency repairs, and any hotel costs if you can’t stay in the home.
Step 4: Prevent Further Damage
Most homeowners insurance policies expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent more damage. That usually means an emergency tarp over damaged areas. Have a roofing professional install it safely, and keep the invoice for your claim. LUXE Roofing & Construction provides emergency storm damage roof repair in Orlando and nearby areas.
Step 5: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Before you file a claim, have a licensed roofer inspect the roof and document the damage with photos and measurements. This gives you a clear picture of whether the damage is storm-related, how extensive it is, and whether a repair or full replacement is needed.
Step 6: File Your Insurance Claim Promptly
- Report quickly. Florida law sets deadlines for filing property insurance claims after a loss, and those deadlines have been shortened in recent years. Check your policy and contact your insurer as soon as possible.
- Know your hurricane deductible. Many Florida policies have a separate hurricane deductible, often a percentage of your home’s insured value.
- Be present for the adjuster’s inspection. If possible, have your roofer there too so nothing is missed.
- Compare the adjuster’s estimate with your roofer’s findings and ask questions about anything left out.
This is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Contact your insurance agent for guidance on your specific policy.
Step 7: Choose a Licensed, Local Roofer and Avoid Storm Chasers
After big storms, out-of-state “storm chasers” go door to door offering fast, cheap repairs. Protect yourself:
- Verify the contractor’s Florida license on the DBPR website.
- Choose a company with a local address and local reviews.
- Never pay the full amount up front.
- Get a written contract and warranty.
- Make sure permits are pulled where required.
How to Prepare Your Roof Before Hurricane Season
Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Before it starts:
- Schedule a roof inspection and fix loose shingles, cracked tiles, and worn flashing.
- Trim trees and remove dead branches near the house.
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
- Photograph your roof’s current condition for your records.
- If your roof is old, consider replacing it before storm season. See how long roofs last in Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane roof damage in Florida?
Most policies cover sudden wind damage from storms, subject to your deductible. They typically do not cover wear and tear or damage from lack of maintenance.
Can I get a roof repaired instead of replaced after storm damage?
Often, yes. Roofs built under the 2007 Florida Building Code or later can usually have damaged sections repaired to code. Older roofs with extensive damage may require full replacement. Read more about the Florida 15-year roof rule and the 25% rule.
How soon should I call a roofer after a storm?
As soon as it’s safe. Quick tarping and inspection prevent water damage from spreading and help document storm-related damage.
Storm Damage? Call LUXE Roofing & Construction
We’re a licensed Orlando roofing contractor (CCC1335553) helping homeowners in Orlando, Winter Park, Kissimmee, Windermere, and Winter Garden recover after storms. Call (407) 794-3405 or request a free storm damage inspection.