Check from the ground
Look for displaced materials, debris, damaged gutters or visible openings without climbing onto the roof.
- Photograph accessible exterior conditions
- Check ceilings and attic areas only when safe
- Keep people away from fallen wires and unstable debris
Document before temporary work
When conditions allow, record what was visible before temporary protection or cleanup changes the scene. Emergency work should still prioritize safety over perfect documentation.
- Save time-stamped photos
- List rooms or slopes affected
- Keep written scopes and invoices
Separate inspection from coverage decisions
A contractor can document roof conditions and prepare a work scope. Insurance coverage and payment decisions belong to the insurer and the policy terms.
- Avoid promises of guaranteed coverage
- Compare the contractor scope with the adjuster documentation
- Ask for changes and exclusions in writing