Storm Damage HubHow to Document Roof Storm Damage
Good documentation is the foundation of a successful claim. Here's what you need and how to get it.
Free Inspection(210) 272-7272 Licensed, Bonded & Insured Storm Damage Specialists 200+ 5-Star Reviews 26+ Years in SA Why Documentation Matters
Your claim is only as strong as your documentation. Adjusters make decisions based on visual evidence and written reports. Vague descriptions and blurry photos lead to underpaid or denied claims. Detailed, organized documentation with close-up photos, measurements, and clear descriptions gives the adjuster everything they need to approve your claim at full value. This is where working with a professional contractor makes the biggest difference.
What to Photograph
Document everything from the street to the ridge cap. Start with wide-angle photos of the entire roof from multiple angles. Then take close-up photos of every damaged area: hail impacts on shingles, cracked or missing shingles, damaged flashing, dented gutters, damaged vents and caps, and any interior water damage (ceiling stains, attic leaks). Include a reference object (like a coin or chalk circle) next to hail impacts to show scale. Date-stamp your photos or record the date separately.
The Inspection Report
A professional inspection report should include: the date of inspection, the inspector's name and company, a summary of findings, detailed photos organized by roof area, identification of the type of damage (hail, wind, age-related), measurements of affected areas, and a recommendation for repair or replacement. This report is shared with the insurance adjuster and serves as the basis for your claim. At Legacy, we use CompanyCam to document every inspection with GPS-tagged, time-stamped photos.
Supporting Documentation
Beyond photos and inspection reports, gather: weather reports confirming the storm date and hail size in your area, your insurance policy declarations page, any previous roof repair or replacement records, manufacturer specifications for your current roofing material, and local building code requirements. This supporting documentation strengthens your claim and helps resolve disputes about whether damage is storm-related or pre-existing.
Key Takeaways
Document everything with clear, organized photos from wide-angle to close-up
Include a reference object (coin, chalk circle) next to damage for scale
Get a professional inspection report with date-stamped, GPS-tagged photos
Gather weather reports, policy documents, and building code references
Good documentation is the #1 factor in getting your claim fully approved
Frequently Asked Questions
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Read GuideBack to Storm Damage HubImportant Disclaimer
Legacy Home Improvements is a licensed roofing contractor, not a public adjuster or insurance advisor. The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be construed as insurance advice, claims guidance, or legal counsel. We do not interpret insurance policies, negotiate claim settlements, or advise homeowners on insurance matters. For questions about your specific policy, coverage, or claim, please contact your insurance company or a licensed public adjuster directly. Texas Insurance Code Chapter 4102 governs the practice of public adjusting in Texas.
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