When a storm hits, commercial property owners often find themselves dealing with a damaged roof, unexpected repairs, and a complicated insurance claims process. Strong winds, hail, and heavy rain can wreak havoc on a roofing system, leading to leaks, structural damage, and costly disruptions.
Knowing how to handle storm damage and navigate an insurance claim can make a significant difference in how quickly and effectively your property is restored. In this guide, we’ll break down what to do after a storm, how insurance claims work, and why having S&S Roofing and Construction on your side can help protect your investment.
Assessing Storm Damage to Your Commercial Roof
After a major storm, it’s crucial to inspect your commercial property for signs of damage. Some issues are obvious, while others may not be noticeable without a professional inspection.
Common Signs of Storm Damage:
• Water Leaks – Stains on ceilings, dripping water, or moisture buildup inside the building.
• Ponding Water – Flat roofs can develop standing water, which may indicate drainage issues.
• Membrane Tears or Uplifted Seams – High winds can lift roofing materials, making them vulnerable to leaks.
• Hail Damage – Dents, punctures, or cracks in roofing materials, flashing, or HVAC units.
• Debris Impact – Branches or other objects hitting the roof can cause significant damage.
While a basic visual inspection can help identify major damage, many issues remain hidden without a thorough professional assessment. That’s why S&S Roofing and Construction offers free post-storm inspections to help property owners assess the full extent of the damage.
What to Do After Storm Damage Occurs
1. Document the Damage
Take clear photos and videos of your roof and any interior damage. The more documentation you have, the stronger your insurance claim will be.
2. Prevent Further Damage
If your roof is actively leaking, take temporary measures such as using buckets to collect water and moving valuable equipment or inventory away from affected areas. Contact S&S Roofing and Construction for emergency tarping or temporary repairs.
3. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even if your roof appears intact, there could be hidden damage. S&S Roofing and Construction will conduct a comprehensive inspection to identify any storm-related issues, document them properly, and provide a report that you can submit to your insurance company.
4. File an Insurance Claim
Once you’ve assessed the damage, notify your insurance provider. They will send an adjuster to evaluate the situation, but it’s important to have an experienced roofing contractor advocating on your behalf.
Navigating the Insurance Claims Process
Many commercial property owners find the insurance claims process overwhelming. Policies can be complex, and insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts. Understanding your policy and working with professionals can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Key Things to Know About Insurance Coverage:
Most policies cover storm-related damage, but coverage details can vary.
• Some policies exclude cosmetic damage (e.g., minor hail dents) unless it affects the roof’s performance.
• Insurance claims must be filed within a specific timeframe, so don’t delay.
• Your insurer may only offer Actual Cash Value (ACV) instead of Replacement Cost Value (RCV). ACV factors in depreciation, meaning you may receive a lower payout, whereas RCV covers the full replacement cost of the roof without subtracting for age or wear. Understanding the difference between the two is crucial when filing your claim.
• A professional policy inspection from a licensed insurance expert can help identify exclusions in your policy, ensuring you fully understand what is and isn’t covered before submitting a claim.
Working with S&S Roofing and Construction ensures that you have an experienced team on your side to help negotiate a fair settlement and provide the documentation needed to support your claim.
Why a Professional Roofing Inspection is Essential
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company—not for you. Their assessments may not always reflect the full extent of the damage. That’s why it’s important to have an independent roofing inspection.
How S&S Roofing and Construction Helps with Insurance Claims:
✔ Conducts a detailed post-storm inspection to uncover hidden damage.
✔ Provides thorough documentation and an estimate to support your claim.
✔ Works directly with insurance adjusters to ensure fair compensation.
✔ Offers temporary repairs if needed to prevent further damage.
Without an experienced roofing professional in your corner, you could risk receiving a lower payout or even having your claim denied.
Repairing and Restoring Your Roof
Once your claim is approved, the next step is restoring your roof to its pre-storm condition—or better. Whether you need minor repairs or a full roof replacement, S&S Roofing and Construction uses top-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship to ensure your building is fully protected.
We work efficiently to minimize downtime so your business can continue operating without major disruptions. Our team specializes in commercial roofing solutions, including:
• Flat Roof Repairs & Replacements
• Metal Roofing Systems
• TPO & EPDM Roofing
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Roof Coatings & Waterproofing
Final Thoughts
Dealing with storm damage can be stressful, but taking immediate action and working with the right professionals can make all the difference. By documenting damage, understanding your insurance policy, and partnering with S&S Roofing and Construction, you can protect your investment and get your commercial property back in top shape.
🚨 If your commercial roof has been damaged in a storm, contact S&S Roofing and Construction today for a free inspection and expert guidance on the insurance claim process.