Storm Damage to Your Roof: What to Do Next
When a storm rolls across the Home Counties, roofs take the brunt of it. Gale-force winds lift and slip tiles, driving rain forces its way under coverings, and flying debris can crack tiles or damage flashing in seconds. If your roof has taken a battering, acting quickly and calmly can limit the damage and the cost. Here's a clear plan of action.
1. Stay safe and stay on the ground
Never climb onto a wet, storm-damaged roof or use a ladder in high winds. Loose tiles and slippery surfaces make it extremely dangerous. Assess the damage from ground level, ideally with a pair of binoculars.
2. Check inside your loft
The loft often tells the story before the outside does. Look for daylight coming through the roof, damp or dripping timbers, and water pooling on the ceiling below. Move any stored items away from active leaks and place a bucket under drips.
3. Contain the damage
- Move furniture and valuables away from leaks
- Catch drips with buckets and old towels
- If a ceiling is bulging with trapped water, keep clear — it can collapse
- Take photos of all damage for your insurance claim
4. Call a professional roofer for a temporary make-safe
For active leaks or missing tiles, a temporary weatherproof cover stops further water getting in until a permanent repair can be made. Our emergency team provides rapid-response call-outs across Buckinghamshire and the Home Counties to make your roof safe fast.
5. Document everything for insurance
Most home insurance policies cover storm damage. Photograph the damage, keep any receipts for emergency work, and get a written report from your roofer describing the cause and extent of the damage. This makes your claim far smoother.
6. Book a full inspection once the weather clears
Even if the visible damage looks minor, storms can loosen tiles and flashing in ways that only show up weeks later as a leak. A proper post-storm inspection catches hidden problems early. We offer free, no-obligation roof assessments so you know exactly where you stand.
If your roof has been damaged in a storm, don't wait for the next downpour. Call us on 07337 682 151 for a rapid emergency response, or request a free inspection online.
