Storm Damage Roof Inspection Checklist for Contractors (2026)

Why Documentation Quality Determines Claim Approval

In storm restoration roofing, your inspection quality directly determines your claim approval rate. Insurance adjusters reviewing 30–50 claims per day look for specific documentation: accurate measurements, clear photo evidence of damage patterns, and professional reports that match industry standards. Contractors who provide complete, well-organized documentation close more claims, collect faster, and get fewer supplements rejected.

Pre-Inspection: What to Bring

• Digital camera or smartphone with GPS photo tagging enabled
• Chalk or crayon for marking hail strike zones
• Tape measure for manual verification of critical dimensions
• Safety equipment: harness, non-slip shoes, hard hat
• Tablet or laptop for live report ordering
• Insurance claim number from homeowner (if available)

The Inspection Checklist

Step 1: Document the property

• Street-level photos of the full home front, sides, and rear
• Date stamp all photos (use GPS tagging when available)
• Note address, homeowner name, and date/time of storm event

Step 2: Order your satellite measurement report

Before ascending the roof, order your AI-powered satellite measurement report from the ground. The report generates in 1–2 hours and gives you the exact dimensions to reference during your physical inspection. Having precise numbers before you climb reduces time on the roof and ensures you don't miss any plane or section.

Step 3: Inspect for hail damage

• Identify hail strike patterns on shingles (bruising, granule loss, spatter marks)
• Check ridge caps, pipe boots, and flashing for strike marks (metal shows clearly)
• Document number of strikes per 10 sq ft — adjusters want density data
• Note hail stone size estimation from impact pattern diameter
• Inspect gutters and downspouts for denting (evidence of hail size)

Step 4: Inspect for wind damage

• Look for lifted or creased shingles along ridges and eaves
• Check for displaced or missing shingles
• Inspect soffits and fascia for wind-driven water intrusion
• Document any tree or debris impact points

Step 5: Compile your documentation package

• Satellite measurement report (PDF) showing exact area and edge measurements
• Organized photo set (minimum 40 photos for full replacement claims)
• Material estimate derived from the measurement report BOM
• Insurance scope of work document with line items matching adjuster format

Turn the Inspection Into a Priced Scope

A documentation package is only worth what you can do with it. Order the satellite measurement report for the address before you leave the driveway: it returns projected and sloped area, edge lengths by type, pitch per facet, and a full material take-off, so the scope you hand the adjuster is built on measured numbers rather than a tape-and-guess estimate.

Get 2 Free Measurement Reports →