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us Home & property emergencies hail damage to windows • wind damage to roof • broken window storm damage • cracked window from hail • missing shingles after wind • roof leak after storm • tarp roof temporary cover • board up broken window • prevent water intrusion • storm damage discovered later • document damage for insurance • emergency home repairs • downed power line nearby • gas leak after storm • next storm coming soon • protect home from further damage • home damage safety check • what to do after severe weather • sudden property damage panic

What to do if…
you discover hail or wind damage to windows or roof that could worsen in the next storm

Short answer

Make it safe, then prevent more water/wind intrusion with a basic temporary cover (no risky roof climbing) and start the insurance documentation/claim process immediately.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t go on the roof in bad weather, at night, or if you’re not trained/equipped — falls are a common serious injury after storms.
  • Don’t touch downed power lines or anything contacting them.
  • Don’t use a generator, grill, or other fuel-burning device inside the home/garage (or near open doors/windows/vents). Keep generators outside and well away from the home.
  • Don’t run fans into a damaged attic/roof area if you suspect electrical damage or you smell gas.
  • Don’t delay covering an opening if rain is expected — “secondary damage” can get much worse fast.

What to do now

  1. Keep people safe and do a quick hazard scan.
    Keep kids/pets out of the damaged area. Look for: broken glass, exposed nails, ceiling sagging, water near outlets/lights, or the smell of gas.
  2. If there’s immediate danger, call for help.
    • If you see downed power lines: stay far back and call 911 (and your utility if you can do so safely).
    • If you suspect a gas leak: leave the area/building and call your gas utility or 911.
  3. Stop water and wind getting in (lowest-risk temporary steps).
    • Windows: wear shoes/gloves/eye protection; remove only loose glass that’s an immediate hazard; then board up with plywood or cover with heavy plastic from the inside and secure it tightly.
    • Roof leaks: place buckets and towels; move valuables; if safe, catch drips from inside/attic without stepping where you can’t see joists. If water is near electrical fixtures, avoid the area and consider shutting off power to the affected circuit at the breaker only if you can do so safely.
  4. Document everything before and after you cover it.
    Take photos/video of every damaged area (wide shots + close-ups), plus your temporary covering and any interior water damage.
  5. Contact your homeowners/renters insurance right away.
    Tell them you’ve taken reasonable steps to prevent further damage and ask what they want next (adjuster visit, preferred contractors, documentation).
  6. Save receipts and keep a simple log.
    Keep receipts for tarps, plywood, fasteners, plastic sheeting, fans/dehumidifiers, and any emergency labor. Note dates/times and what you did to prevent further damage.
  7. If this is part of a declared disaster, check for official temporary-roof help (optional).
    In some federally declared disasters, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may run Operation Blue Roof (free temporary roof sheeting for some eligible homes). This is not always active—it depends on the specific event and state request/assignment—so verify for your area and disaster.
  8. Get a qualified inspection scheduled, not DIY fixes.
    Ask for a licensed/insured roofer or window/glass contractor to do a storm-damage inspection and provide a written scope. If you rent, notify your landlord/property manager immediately with photos.

What can wait

  • You don’t need to choose permanent materials or sign a full repair contract right now — stabilization comes first.
  • You don’t need perfect cleanup immediately; prioritise preventing intrusion and keeping walkways free of glass.
  • You don’t need to resolve “who pays” today (insurer vs landlord vs disaster aid). Start documentation, report promptly, and keep records.

Important reassurance

It’s normal to feel a spike of panic when you realize the next storm could make this worse. The best early actions are the safest ones: secure the opening, document it clearly, and hand off the dangerous work to pros.

Scope note

This is first-step guidance to reduce immediate risk and prevent rapid worsening. Permanent repairs, mold/drying plans, and claim disputes may require licensed contractors and formal advice.

Important note

This is general information, not legal, insurance, or professional construction advice. If you’re unsure about structural stability, electrical hazards, gas leaks, or safe access, treat it as unsafe and use emergency services/utility providers/qualified professionals.

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