What to Do After Storm Damage to Your Roof
Step-by-step guide for Pittsburgh homeowners on what to do after your roof is damaged by a storm. From safety to insurance claims.
Pittsburgh gets its share of severe weather — from summer thunderstorms with high winds and hail to winter ice storms. If your roof has been damaged, here’s what to do step by step.
1. Prioritize Safety
Never climb onto a damaged roof yourself. Stay inside if there are active leaks and move valuables away from water. If there’s structural damage (sagging ceiling, large holes), contact emergency services and consider temporary relocation.
2. Document Everything
Before any cleanup or temporary repairs:
- Take photos and videos of all visible damage from the ground
- Photograph interior damage (water stains, wet insulation, damaged belongings)
- Note the date, time, and weather conditions
- Keep damaged materials — don’t throw anything away yet
This documentation is critical for your insurance claim.
3. Prevent Further Damage
If it’s safe to do so, take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage:
- Place buckets under active leaks
- Cover furniture and electronics with plastic
- If accessible, place a tarp over exposed areas from outside (do NOT go on the roof)
Most homeowner’s insurance policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, and these temporary measures are typically covered.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
File a claim as soon as possible. Provide:
- Your policy number
- Date and description of the storm
- Photos and documentation of damage
- A general description of the damage scope
5. Get a Professional Inspection
Call a reputable roofing contractor — like Rabbit Roofing — for a thorough inspection. A professional can:
- Identify damage you can’t see from the ground
- Provide a detailed damage report with photos
- Give an accurate repair or replacement estimate
- Help document damage for your insurance claim
Important: Be cautious of storm chasers — out-of-town contractors who show up after storms offering quick fixes. Always use a local, licensed, and insured contractor.
6. Work Through the Insurance Process
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Having a professional contractor’s report alongside the adjuster’s assessment helps ensure nothing is missed. At Rabbit Roofing, we regularly work with insurance companies and can help navigate the claims process.
Need Emergency Roof Repair?
If your roof has been damaged by a storm, Rabbit Roofing offers 24-48 hour emergency response across Allegheny County. Call us at 412-512-4610 — we’ll assess the damage, help with your insurance claim, and get your home protected fast.