What to Do After Storm Damage to Your Roof

Northern Virginia sees its share of severe weather — from powerful summer thunderstorms and hail to nor'easters and the occasional tropical storm remnant. When a major storm rolls through, your roof takes the brunt of it.

Knowing what to do in the aftermath can mean the difference between a smooth insurance claim and a costly out-of-pocket repair. Here is a step-by-step guide from the M&D Roofing team.

Before you do anything else, make sure it is safe to be outside. After a storm:

• Watch for downed power lines — never approach them
• Look for unstable trees or branches that could still fall
• Avoid walking on a wet or damaged roof yourself

Your safety comes before any inspection.

Once it is safe, walk around your home and look for obvious signs of damage from the ground:

• Missing shingles — bare patches on the roof
• Dented or damaged gutters and downspouts
• Granules — dark sandy material washed into your yard or driveway
• Fallen branches or debris on the roof
• Damaged siding, windows, or fascia boards

Take photos and video of everything you see. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim.

Head to your attic and look for:

• Water stains or active dripping
• Daylight visible through the roof boards
• Wet insulation

Also check your ceilings and walls throughout the house for new water stains or bubbling paint.

If you have an active leak, you need to protect your home's interior while you wait for repairs. Place buckets to catch dripping water and use plastic sheeting to cover furniture and valuables.

Do not attempt to tarp your own roof — it is dangerous and can cause additional damage if done incorrectly. Call M&D Roofing for emergency tarping services. We are available 24/7 at (540) 413-8572.

This is the step most homeowners get wrong. Call a trusted local roofing contractor first to get a professional damage assessment. Here is why:

• A professional can identify damage that is not visible from the ground
• You will have an independent assessment before the insurance adjuster arrives
• A good contractor can help you understand what is covered and advocate for you

Beware of storm chasers — out-of-town contractors who show up door-to-door after storms. They often do substandard work and disappear when problems arise. Stick with a local, established company like M&D Roofing.

Once you have a professional assessment in hand, contact your homeowner's insurance company to file a claim. Have ready:

• Your policy number
• Photos and video of the damage
• The date and time of the storm
• The contractor's damage assessment

Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Having your contractor present during this inspection is highly recommended.

Most standard homeowner's policies cover sudden, accidental damage from storms — including wind, hail, and falling trees. They typically do not cover:

• Damage from lack of maintenance
• Gradual deterioration
• Flooding (requires separate flood insurance)

If your claim is denied, you have the right to dispute it. A reputable contractor can help you understand whether the denial is justified.

Even minor storm damage can worsen quickly. A small leak can lead to mold, rotted decking, and damaged insulation within weeks. Once your claim is approved, schedule repairs as soon as possible.

We have helped hundreds of homeowners across Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and surrounding areas navigate storm damage repairs and insurance claims. We offer:

• Free storm damage inspections
• 24/7 emergency tarping and board-up
• Insurance claim assistance
• Owens Corning Platinum Certified installation

Call us any time at (540) 413-8572 — we are here when you need us most.