1. Schedule an inspection
A pre-season inspection documents shingle condition, flashing integrity, sealants, and decking. This becomes your baseline if you need to file a claim later.
Roofing Guide
Hurricane Roof Preparation Checklist for Florida Homes
The best way to limit hurricane roof damage is to prepare before the season starts and document everything before the storm arrives. This is the same checklist Hloska Roofing recommends to Tampa Bay homeowners across Spring Hill, Brooksville, Hudson, Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater, and surrounding communities each year.
Before the Storm
Seven steps to take before a named storm forms.
2. Reseal vulnerable details
Confirm pipe boots, vent flashing, skylights, and wall transitions are tight. Cracked sealant is one of the most common pre-storm fixes.
3. Trim back trees
Cut branches within 6 feet of the roof. Tree-limb impact and falling debris are top causes of hurricane roof claims.
4. Clear gutters and drainage
Standing water and clogged gutters drive leaks past underlayment. Clear all debris and confirm downspouts are open.
5. Secure roof-mounted items
Antennas, satellite dishes, solar accessories, and any loose components should be secured or removed before high winds arrive.
6. Document the roof
Take dated photos and short videos from multiple angles. Save them to cloud storage. This is your evidence baseline for any future claim.
7. Confirm insurance contacts
Save your policy number, agent contact, and claims phone number on your phone. Confirm your roof's age is accurate in the policy.
After the Storm
Walk through these steps as soon as it is safe to be outside.
1. Inspect from the ground first
Walk the property and photograph anything new: missing shingles, displaced tile, lifted ridge cap, or debris on the roof. Do not climb on wet or damaged shingles.
2. Check the attic
Look for damp insulation, fresh drips, daylight, or watermarks on rafters. Even a small amount can mean meaningful underlayment damage.
3. Photograph everything new
Compare against your pre-storm photos. Date and time stamps matter — these become claim documentation.
4. Tarp active leaks
If water is coming in, get an emergency tarp installed quickly. A licensed roofer can do this safely. Tarping is usually a covered insurance expense.
5. Call a licensed roofer
Schedule a professional inspection before signing any contract. Hloska Roofing provides post-storm inspections and claim documentation across the Tampa Bay area.
6. File the claim within deadline
Florida currently requires notice of claim within one year of the storm. File early — adjuster availability is limited after major events.
Watch Out For
Door-to-door roofers and assignment-of-benefits forms.
After a hurricane, traveling roofers and contractors flood storm zones. Many do good work — but some pressure homeowners into signing forms that hand over the insurance claim or commit to a contract before any inspection. Get a written, professional inspection from a licensed Florida roofer first, and never sign anything you do not fully understand.
- Avoid signing on the spot from a stranger at your door
- Avoid "assignment of benefits" (AOB) forms unless you understand them
- Avoid "direction to pay" if it gives the contractor your full claim
- Confirm Florida license and insurance before contracting
- Get a second opinion if pressured to commit immediately
- Read everything before signing — including arbitration clauses
Hurricane Roof FAQ
Quick answers homeowners ask before and after storms.
When should I prepare my roof for hurricane season in Florida?
Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Schedule a roof inspection between April and June so any repairs can be completed before peak storm activity in August and September.
What roof damage does homeowners insurance cover after a hurricane?
Most Florida policies cover sudden roof damage from named storms, including missing shingles, wind-lifted areas, structural decking damage, and water intrusion. Wear, age, and prior unrepaired damage are typically excluded. Hurricane deductibles are usually a percentage of the home's insured value rather than a flat amount.
Should I tarp my roof after a hurricane?
If there is active leaking, yes — emergency tarping limits interior damage and is usually a covered insurance expense. A licensed roofer can install a temporary tarp safely. Avoid climbing the roof yourself, especially on wet shingles or damaged decking.
How fast can Hloska Roofing inspect my roof after a storm?
Hloska Roofing prioritizes urgent post-storm inspections across the Tampa Bay area — Spring Hill, Brooksville, Hudson, Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater, and surrounding communities. Call 813-945-7663 or 727-241-7663 to request an inspection — wait times depend on storm severity and call volume.
Should I sign anything from a door-to-door roofer after a hurricane?
No. Get a professional inspection from a licensed Florida roofer first, then review any contract carefully. Avoid signing "assignment of benefits" (AOB) or "direction to pay" forms that hand your insurance claim to a third party. You can always get a second opinion.
How long do I have to file a hurricane roof claim in Florida?
Under current Florida law, homeowners generally have one year from the date of the storm to file a notice of claim for hurricane damage, and 18 months to file a supplemental or reopened claim. Check your specific policy and confirm with your insurer, since deadlines have changed multiple times in recent years.
What is a hurricane deductible vs. a regular deductible?
A hurricane deductible only applies when damage is caused by a named hurricane. It is usually 2% to 10% of the home's insured value — meaningfully higher than a flat dollar deductible. Confirm yours before storms arrive so there are no surprises.
Storm season prep
Schedule a pre-season roof inspection today.
The earlier in the season you book, the more flexibility you have to fix small issues before they turn into claims.