After any storm with hail 0.75"+, winds 60+ MPH, or heavy debris, inspect your property using this checklist. Check roof, siding, gutters, windows, chimney, foundation, and landscaping from the ground. Document everything with photos. Never get on a damaged roof yourself. Call DT Exteriors at (262) 945-0841 for a free professional storm inspection.
The Complete Post-Storm Checklist
🔴 Safety First (Before Inspecting)
Wait until the storm has completely passed
Watch for downed power lines — stay at least 35 feet away
Check for gas leaks (smell, hissing)
Look up for hanging branches before walking around the house
Roof (View From Ground — DO NOT Climb)
☐ Missing or scattered shingles in yard
☐ Visible dark patches on roof (exposed decking)
☐ Ridge cap shingles displaced or missing
☐ Flashing pulled away from chimney, walls, or vents
☐ Vent covers displaced or damaged
☐ Skylight glass cracked
Siding
☐ Cracked, broken, or missing panels
☐ Dents from hail (check all four sides)
☐ Panels blown loose or hanging
☐ Holes from flying debris
Gutters & Downspouts
☐ Gutters pulled away from fascia
☐ Downspouts detached or crushed
☐ Gutter sections dented or deformed
☐ Heavy debris accumulation
Windows & Doors
☐ Cracked or broken glass
☐ Damaged screens or frames
☐ Water intrusion around seals
☐ Garage door dents or misalignment
Foundation & Basement
☐ Standing water near foundation
☐ Water entering basement
☐ New cracks in foundation walls
☐ Soil erosion along foundation
Trees & Landscaping
☐ Fallen limbs on house, fence, or vehicles
☐ Hanging branches ("widow makers")
☐ Uprooted or leaning trees near structures
☐ Debris accumulation against house
How to Document Damage for Insurance
Photograph everything — Wide shots showing the full wall/roof, then close-ups of specific damage
Include a reference object — A coin, pen, or ruler next to hail dents shows size
Record video — Walk around the entire perimeter narrating what you see
Note the date and time — Your phone timestamps photos automatically, but note the storm date separately
Document undamaged areas too — This prevents insurance from claiming pre-existing damage
Check your car and AC unit — Hail damage to vehicles and outdoor equipment corroborates the storm event
Pro Tip: Upload your damage photos to our estimate request form or share them through our Dex chat. We'll review them and give you an initial assessment before we arrive for the full inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Call DT Exteriors at (262) 945-0841 any time you see visible damage, hear about significant hail (0.75" or larger), or experience winds over 60 MPH in your area. Even if you don't see damage from the ground, roof damage is often invisible without a professional inspection.
As soon as it is safe to go outside — typically within a few hours after the storm passes. The sooner you document, the stronger your claim. If you see immediate active leaking, call for emergency service right away.