After storm damage — do these things, in this order.

After a storm hits your home, the first hours and days are critical. What you do — and what order you do it in — can significantly affect your insurance claim, your recovery timeline, and your out-of-pocket costs. This checklist is designed to guide Florida homeowners through that process clearly and without confusion.

Step 1Immediately After the Storm

• Make sure all people and pets are safe before assessing any damage
• Do not enter any area that appears structurally unsafe
• Check for gas leaks — if you smell gas, leave immediately and call 911
• Turn off electricity to water-damaged areas at the breaker if safe to do so
• Do not use generators indoors — carbon monoxide risk
• Wait for standing water to recede before entering flooded areas

Step 2Document Everything First

• Photograph all exterior damage — roof, siding, windows, fencing, gutters
• Photograph all interior damage — ceilings, walls, floors, belongings
• Video walk-through of all affected areas
• Note the date and time of all documentation
• Do not throw away any damaged materials before your insurer assesses them
• Document any emergency expenses with photos and receipts

Step 3Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage

• Place tarps over roof damage to stop water intrusion
• Board or cover broken windows and doors
• Use towels or buckets for active leaks inside the home
• Remove standing water if safe to do so
• Run dehumidifiers in water-affected areas
• Photograph all temporary repairs as you make them
• Keep all receipts for materials — these costs may be reimbursable

Step 4Contact Roof Roof Direct First

• Call (888) 876-6364 or fill out our short form at roofroofdirect.com/contact
• Tell us what happened — damage type, location, and where you are in the process
• We'll help you understand the recovery process and what documentation is typically needed at each stage
• Our guidance is provided at no cost to Roof Roof Members

Most homeowners contact their insurer before they understand their coverage. One call to Roof Roof Direct first can make a significant difference in how your claim unfolds.

Step 5Contact Your Insurance Company

• Call your insurer to report the damage promptly — most policies require timely notification
• Get a claim number and record it
• Write down the name of every person you speak with and the date
• Ask when an adjuster will be scheduled
• Do not accept a settlement or sign anything before understanding what it covers
• Do not allow any contractor to begin permanent repairs before your insurer has assessed the damage

Step 6Protect Yourself From Storm Chasers

• Do not sign any contractor agreement at the door — especially unsolicited visitors
• Do not sign an Assignment of Benefits document without understanding it fully
• Ask for contractor license number and verify it at myfloridalicense.com
• Get at least two estimates before committing to any contractor
• Call Roof Roof Direct before signing anything — (888) 876-6364

Step 7Through the Repair Process

• Get all contractor agreements in writing before work begins
• Never pay the full amount upfront — standard is a deposit with balance on completion
• Document the repair process with photos
• Keep copies of all permits pulled for the work
• Do a final walkthrough before signing off on completion
• Request all warranties in writing

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