Questions to Ask a Roofer About Storm Damage

Questions to Ask a Roofer About Storm Damage

Mar 10 2026

Storms are a common occurrence in Memphis and throughout the Mid-South. From high winds to hailstorms and heavy rain, severe weather can cause serious damage to residential roofing systems. After a storm passes, many homeowners are left wondering what to do next.

Knowing the right questions to ask a roofer about storm damage can make a huge difference in protecting your home and ensuring repairs are handled properly. Asking the right questions also helps you avoid unreliable contractors and ensures you understand the condition of your roof before filing an insurance claim.

At Restoration Roofing, we inspect storm-damaged roofs across Memphis every week. Below are the most important questions to ask a roofer about storm damage so you can make confident decisions about your home.

1. Can You Show Me the Storm Damage?

One of the first questions to ask a roofer about storm damage is whether they can show clear evidence of the damage.

Storm damage is not always visible from the ground. Hail impacts, lifted shingles, and damaged flashing may only be visible during a roof inspection.

A professional roofing contractor should provide:

  • Detailed photos from the roof

  • Close-up images of damaged shingles

  • Evidence of wind lifting or creasing

  • Damage to flashing or vents

  • Gutter or metal impact marks from hail

Seeing the damage yourself helps you better understand the condition of your roof.

2. Is This Storm Damage or Normal Roof Wear?

Another critical question to ask a roofer about storm damage is whether the problem is actually storm related or simply normal aging.

Over time, shingles naturally wear down due to sun exposure, ventilation problems, and general weathering. A reputable contractor should be able to clearly explain the difference.

A professional roofer should explain:

  • Whether the damage appears recent

  • If hail or wind caused the damage

  • How severe the damage is

  • Whether the roof needs repair or replacement

Understanding this difference is especially important if you are considering filing an insurance claim.

For more information on roofing systems and materials, the National Roofing Contractors Association provides helpful homeowner resources:
https://www.nrca.net

3. Do You Recommend Filing an Insurance Claim?

Many homeowners automatically assume they should file an insurance claim after a storm. However, that is not always necessary.

One of the smartest questions to ask a roofer about storm damage is whether the damage appears significant enough to justify filing a claim.

Experienced storm damage roofers can often help homeowners determine:

  • If the damage meets typical insurance thresholds

  • Whether repair is more appropriate

  • If the roof replacement may be covered by insurance

Before filing a claim, it’s helpful to understand the process. The Insurance Information Institute explains how storm damage claims work:
https://www.iii.org

4. Will You Meet With the Insurance Adjuster?

If you decide to file a claim, another important question to ask a roofer about storm damage is whether they will meet with the insurance adjuster.

Having a roofing professional present during the adjuster inspection can help ensure all damage is properly documented.

Your contractor can help:

  • Identify damage the adjuster may miss

  • Explain roofing components

  • Ensure the repair estimate reflects actual damage

At Restoration Roofing, we often meet with adjusters to make sure homeowners receive a fair evaluation of their roof.

Learn more about our storm damage roof inspection services here:
https://www.restorationroofing.com/storm-damage/

5. What Exactly Will Be Replaced?

Roof replacements involve more than just shingles. One of the most important questions to ask a roofer about storm damage is what materials and components will actually be replaced.

A complete roofing system typically includes:

  • Shingles

  • Underlayment

  • Drip edge

  • Flashing

  • Pipe boots

  • Ridge vent

  • Damaged roof decking

Understanding the full scope of the project helps prevent surprises later.

 

6. How Will You Protect My Property During the Job?

Roofing projects involve removing old materials, hauling debris, and working around landscaping. A professional roofing company should have clear procedures to protect your home.

Important things to ask include:

  • Will landscaping be covered with tarps?

  • How will gutters and siding be protected?

  • Will a magnetic nail sweep be performed after installation?

  • How will debris be removed?

Responsible contractors prioritize protecting the homeowner’s property throughout the job.

7. Who Will Actually Be Doing the Work?

Many homeowners forget to ask this important question.

Some roofing companies sell the project but outsource the work to unknown subcontractors. A reputable roofing company should be transparent about who will complete the work.

Ask about:

  • Whether crews are employees or subcontractors

  • The experience level of the installation team

  • Who supervises the project

Knowing who will be working on your roof provides peace of mind.

8. What Warranty Do You Provide?

Roofing warranties vary widely, so this is another critical question to ask a roofer about storm damage repairs.

Most roofing systems include two types of warranties:

Manufacturer Warranty

Covers defects in roofing materials.

Workmanship Warranty

Covers installation quality from the contractor.

A reputable roofing company should clearly explain what is covered and how long the warranty lasts.

 

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Storm damage can be stressful for homeowners. Unfortunately, severe weather can also attract storm-chasing contractors who travel from area to area following storms.

These companies may offer quick repairs but often disappear once the work is complete.

By asking the right questions to ask a roofer about storm damage, homeowners can avoid unreliable contractors and make better decisions about their roofs.

Working with a trusted local roofing company helps ensure your home is protected.

Schedule a Storm Damage Roof Inspection in Memphis

If your home recently experienced strong winds, hail, or heavy rain, it may be time for a professional inspection.

At Restoration Roofing, we provide detailed roof inspections to help Memphis homeowners identify storm damage and determine the best path forward.

Our inspections include:

  • Full roof evaluation

  • Photo documentation

  • Insurance claim guidance

  • Honest repair or replacement recommendations

Learn more about our Memphis roofing services here:
https://www.restorationroofing.com/memphis-roofing/