Metro Detroit gets its share of severe weather — high winds, hail, and the heavy wet snow that loads up a roof overnight. When a storm hits, what you do in the first day or two matters, both for preventing further damage and for getting a fair insurance settlement. Here is a clear, calm order of operations.
1. Stay safe first
Do not climb onto a storm-damaged roof. Wet shingles, hidden structural damage, and downed power lines make it genuinely dangerous. Assess from the ground and from inside your attic. If water is actively coming in, contain it with buckets and move valuables out of the way.
2. Document everything
Thorough documentation is the single biggest factor in a smooth insurance claim. Before anything is touched or cleaned up:
- Photograph all visible damage from the ground — and any interior water stains, dripping, or fallen debris.
- Note the date and time of the storm and the type of weather (wind, hail, fallen branch).
- Save receipts for any emergency supplies or temporary repairs you make.
3. Make safe temporary repairs
Most insurance policies expect you to prevent further damage once a loss has occurred. If it is safe, cover broken windows and have a professional tarp exposed roof areas. Keep it temporary — do not start permanent repairs until your insurer has reviewed the damage.
4. Call a roofer for a free inspection — before the adjuster
A reputable local roofer can spot storm damage an untrained eye misses, especially hail bruising and wind-lifted shingles. Getting a professional inspection first means you walk into the claim knowing what the real damage is, so nothing legitimate gets overlooked.
5. File your insurance claim
Contact your insurer with your documentation and the roofer's findings. Be factual and specific. An honest contractor can meet the adjuster on-site to make sure the scope of damage is captured accurately and you are not left covering legitimate storm damage out of pocket.
A word on storm-chasers
After big storms, out-of-town crews flood the area knocking on doors and pressuring homeowners to sign on the spot. Be cautious. Work with a local company you can find again next year — one with a real address, real reviews over time, and a willingness to put everything in writing.
We're local, and we're here to help
Guthix Roofing serves Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, and Monroe Counties year-round. If a storm has damaged your roof, we will inspect it for free, document what we find clearly, and help you understand your options before you commit to anything. Call us at (313) 306-5011 or request a free estimate online.
