Should I file an insurance claim?

Check your policy and deductible. A roofer's inspection report helps you decide.

How quickly should damage be repaired?

Tarp it right away, then schedule the permanent repair as soon as practical.

Storm & Wind Damage Roof Repair in Kalamazoo, MI

Severe thunderstorms, hail and the occasional tornado reach Southwest Michigan. When a storm damages the roof, quick protection and good records make the repair and any claim go smoothly.

Roof repairs, replacements and storm damage

Kalamazoo, Portage and the towns around them

Get a quote before any work starts

Stay safe

Stay off the roof. Keep away from downed lines and any tree still resting on the house. If a limb has come through the roof, keep everyone out of that part of the house.

Check from the ground

Look for missing or lifted shingles, bent flashing, dented gutters and debris. Inside, check upstairs ceilings for new stains.

Hail

Hail knocks granules off shingles and dents metal and gutters. Damage isn't always visible from the yard.

Tornado damage

After a tornado, damage can range from a few shingles to whole sections of roof. Even homes that look fine may have loosened shingles that leak later.

Photos and notes

Photograph damage, debris and fallen trees before anything is moved, and note the storm's date.

Tarping

A roofer can tarp the damaged area to keep rain and snow out until the permanent repair.

Fallen trees

A tree service should remove large limbs before roof repairs begin. Ask the roofer to check the decking and rafters underneath.

Beware storm chasers

After big storms, out-of-town crews go door to door. Check the contractor's Michigan license and avoid signing on the spot.

Get help

Tell the roofer what happened and send photos. Send a request and a roofer will get in touch.

Keep receipts

Save receipts for tarps, emergency repairs and tree removal; many policies cover reasonable steps to prevent further damage.

Neighbours' trees

Look up at trees on neighbouring lots too. Cracked limbs leaning toward your roof are worth raising before the next storm.