After a storm, it is wise to check your roof even if nothing looks obviously wrong. Storm damage gets worse with every subsequent downpour, and a problem caught early is far cheaper to fix. Here is how to check safely — and when to call a professional.
Check from the ground
Walk around your property and look up at the roof from different angles. Look for tiles that are missing, slipped out of line, or cracked. Pay attention to ridges, verges and the windward side — these are where wind damage shows first. Do not use a ladder or climb onto the roof.
Look for debris
Tiles, slates, pieces of mortar or flashing on the ground are a clear sign of damage above. Note where they have fallen from. Also check for fallen branches that may have hit the roof.
Check inside
Go into your loft with the light on and look for damp patches, water staining, or daylight coming through the tiles. Check ceilings in the rooms below for new damp patches or bulging. Any sign of water after a storm means the roof has been breached. See our roof leak repairs page.
Check the chimney
Look for loose or missing pots, crumbling mortar, and any sign the stack has shifted. Loose chimney masonry is a safety issue. See our chimney repairs page.
Check the guttering
Look for sagging, detached or crushed gutters and downpipes, especially where branches may have hit them. See our guttering page.
When to call a professional
If you see any sign of damage — missing tiles, debris, damp inside, loose masonry — call us on 01622 611 499. Not all damage is visible from the ground, so a drone inspection is the reliable way to check. See our storm damage roof repairs page or arrange a free drone roof survey.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check my roof after a storm?
Check from the ground for missing, slipped or cracked tiles, look for debris below, check your loft and ceilings for damp, and inspect the chimney and guttering. Do not climb onto the roof. If you see any sign of damage, call us for a drone inspection.
Can you inspect storm damage using a drone?
Yes. A drone inspection is the safe, reliable way to check your roof after a storm, identifying damage without scaffolding for an initial view. The imagery is also useful for insurance claims.