Storms in Houston, TX are nothing new—but when one wreaks havoc on your roof, knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming. Between assessing damage, filing paperwork, and finding a reliable contractor, the insurance claims process can be confusing and time-consuming. However, if handled correctly, it can help restore your home quickly and at minimal out-of-pocket cost.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to take after storm damage occurs, how to navigate your insurance claim, and how to partner with the right roofing professional to get your roof—and peace of mind—fully restored.
Step 1: Inspect Your Roof Safely After the Storm
Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, do a ground-level inspection of your roof. Look for:
- Missing or curled shingles
- Exposed underlayment
- Debris or tree limbs
- Damaged flashing or gutters
- Water stains on ceilings or attic walls
If you can’t see your entire roof, or you suspect damage, call a professional roofer to conduct a thorough inspection. Avoid climbing onto the roof yourself—it’s not worth the risk, especially after heavy rain or wind.
Step 2: Document the Damage
Take clear, high-resolution photos of the affected areas. Include wide shots of the entire roof and close-ups of the specific damage. If possible, take pictures before and after temporary repairs are made. Your insurance company will use these visuals to assess your claim’s validity and scope.
Don’t forget to document interior damage too—leaks in the attic, ceiling stains, or warped walls could all be related to roof failure caused by the storm.
Step 3: Review Your Insurance Policy
Familiarize yourself with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Understand key details like:
- Your deductible
- What types of storm damage are covered
- Exclusions for older roofs or specific materials
- Required timelines for filing a claim
Knowing what to expect from your coverage will help you ask the right questions and avoid delays.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve confirmed damage, notify your insurance company and start the claim process. They’ll typically assign an adjuster to inspect your home and evaluate the damage.
Be prepared to share:
- Photos and video documentation
- Inspection reports from a roofer (if available)
- A timeline of the storm and its aftermath
Having this information ready can help speed up your claim’s approval and funding.
Step 5: Get a Professional Roofing Inspection
Insurance adjusters are trained to spot major issues, but they may not catch everything. Having your own roofer conduct a detailed inspection ensures nothing is overlooked.
A reputable roofing contractor—like TrueWorks Roofing—can document storm damage from a professional standpoint and advocate for necessary repairs with your insurer. TrueWorks Roofing works closely with Houston homeowners and insurance providers to ensure that all qualifying damage is properly addressed and fairly compensated.
Step 6: File and Follow Up
Once the adjuster completes their assessment, your insurer will send a settlement offer. Review it carefully with your contractor to ensure it reflects the full scope of damage. If anything is missing or undervalued, your roofer can help contest the claim with supplemental documentation.
Promptly sign and return necessary forms to keep the process moving. The faster you respond, the sooner the funding is released.
Step 7: Choose a Trusted Contractor for Repairs
Storm chasers and out-of-town contractors often flood disaster-affected areas. Be wary of any roofer asking for full payment upfront or offering vague details. Always verify licensing, insurance, local experience, and customer reviews.
TrueWorks Roofing, a local expert serving Houston, TX, specializes in storm restoration and insurance-related repairs. As an A+ BBB-accredited company, they guide homeowners through every phase of the insurance process—from inspection and paperwork to roof replacement and cleanup.
They also install durable, impact-resistant shingles from Malarkey Roofing Products, offering enhanced protection for future storms and greater peace of mind.
Step 8: Keep Records and Confirm Completion
Once the repairs are done, be sure to keep:
- Invoices
- Warranties
- Proof of payment
- Final inspection reports
Submit all documentation to your insurance provider as required, especially if there’s a supplemental payment due after work is completed.
Final Thoughts
Roof storm damage can be stressful—but with the right preparation and guidance, the insurance claim process doesn’t have to be. By taking quick, documented action and working with an experienced local roofer like TrueWorks Roofing, you can recover faster and ensure your home is protected for years to come. Read also our blog: Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Asphalt Shingles