Short answer
Stay off the roof and away from downed lines, contain any leaks inside, photograph damage from the ground, report the claim promptly, and get the roof tarped to stop further water entry. Then choose a roofer with a written contract and proof of insurance. In Texas, a contractor may not waive or pay your insurance deductible.
First: safety
Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof, and stay clear of downed power lines and damaged service masts. Turn off power to any light fixtures that are getting wet.
Document before anything is moved
Photograph the roof from the ground, shingles in the yard, interior stains and damaged belongings. Note the date and time of the storm. Report the claim promptly; policies have reporting deadlines.
- Wide shots of each side of the house
- Close-ups of fallen shingles and debris
- Every interior stain and drip
- Receipts for buckets, tarps and emergency work
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A properly installed tarp, fastened with wood battens, stops more water from getting in until the permanent repair. Emergency tarping is commonly treated as reasonable mitigation under storm claims; keep the invoice and photos.
Choosing a roofer after a big storm
Door-to-door solicitation spikes after hurricanes. Protect yourself.
- Get a written contract with scope and price
- Ask for proof of insurance and local references
- Never sign over insurance benefits without reading the agreement
- Texas law prohibits contractors from waiving or rebating your deductible
- If your wind coverage is through TWIA, ask how windstorm inspections will be handled
Related questions
How long can a tarp stay on?
Weeks to a few months, depending on sun and wind. Schedule the permanent repair as soon as you can.
Should I wait for the adjuster before tarping?
No. Reasonable steps to prevent further damage are generally expected. Document first, then tarp.
What if the damage is not visible from the ground?
Creased or unsealed shingles can look fine from below. A roofer's inspection, with photos, shows what the adjuster needs to see.
Services that fix this
Storm Damage Roof Repair
Wind, hail and tree damage assessed, documented for your claim and repaired.
Storm damage repair in Texas City
Emergency Roof Repair & Tarping
Temporary tarping and dry-in to stop water entering after storm or tree damage.
Emergency roof repair in Texas CityThis guide is general information for homeowners, not a diagnosis of your system. For anything involving gas, carbon monoxide, electricity or active leaks, stop and call a qualified professional.
