Storm Damage Assessment: Steps to Know What to Check
Storm Damage Assessment: Steps to Know What to Check After Hail, Wind & Tornadoes in Minnesota
A Word from Joe Dvorak
In 20+ years of roofing and siding work across the Twin Cities, I've assessed thousands of storm damage cases. After every major storm—whether it's a hail event in Minnetonka, straight-line winds in Edina, or a derecho hitting the metro—my phone rings off the hook with homeowners who need to know if their homes are damaged and if insurance will cover it.
The difference between homeowners who get fair insurance settlements and those who don't often comes down to one thing: knowing what to look for before the insurance adjuster arrives. That's what this guide covers. I'm sharing the exact steps I take when I walk a property, so you can do a safe preliminary assessment yourself.
Safe assessment starts at ground level—never get on your roof after a storm.
The Quick Answer
After a storm in Minnesota, systematically check your roof, gutters, siding, windows, and interior in that order—but always from ground level or with proper safety equipment. Document everything with photos and video before filing your insurance claim. If you see significant damage, call a professional contractor for a detailed assessment. Modern Exterior Systems offers free storm damage inspections throughout the Twin Cities.
Safety First: The Golden Rule
Before you check anything, understand this: do not climb onto your roof , especially within 24-48 hours after a storm. Here's why:
- Unstable footing: Wet shingles are slippery. Debris and loose materials can shift unexpectedly.
- Structural damage: Storm winds can weaken roof decking you can't see from below. One wrong step could mean a fall through the roof.
- Downed power lines: Check your surroundings for downed electrical lines before stepping outside. Wait for utility clearance if needed.
- Loose materials: Hail-damaged gutters, loosened siding, or tree branches can fall without warning.
What you can see from ground level is usually enough for a preliminary assessment. A professional contractor can safely inspect your roof with proper equipment and insurance.
5-Step Storm Damage Assessment Guide
Step 1: Roof Inspection (From Ground Level)
Stand back from your home and look at your roof from the street or yard. Use binoculars if you have them. Here's what to look for:
- Missing or lifted shingles: Shingles torn away, curled up at edges, or completely gone. Wind damage often shows "lines" of missing shingles; hail damage is random.
- Exposed underlayment: If you can see dark, papery material under shingles, the protective layer is exposed. This leads to leaks.
- Debris on roof: Branches, granules (looks like sand in gutters), or hail impact marks (small bruises or dark dents).
- Sagging or dips: Structural damage from impact. This needs immediate professional inspection.
Pro tip: Minnesota hail storms often leave softball-sized dents in metal roofs or dimple patterns in asphalt shingles. Wind damage from tornadoes or derechos typically appears as directional tearing or complete shingle loss.
Step 2: Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters take a beating in storms. Check them carefully:
- Dents and dings: Hail leaves small to large dents; wind can crumple gutters entirely.
- Pulled away from fascia: Fasteners can loosen in high winds, and gutters sag or separate from the house.
- Water overflow patterns: If water is spilling over the sides during rain, gutters may be damaged or clogged with debris.
- Downspout displacement: Check that downspouts are connected and directing water away from the foundation.
- Debris accumulation: After a storm, clear leaves and branches. Blocked gutters cause water to back up under the roof.
Clogged or damaged gutters lead to foundation damage and basement leaks—issues that compound over time. This is often overlooked but critical to document for insurance claims.
Step 3: Siding and Exterior Walls
Walk around the entire perimeter of your home. Look at all sides, not just the one facing the street.
- Cracks or holes: Hail and flying debris create punctures or cracks in vinyl, fiber cement, or wood siding.
- Dents and impact marks: Hail damage shows as small, circular dents; wind-driven objects leave irregular gashes.
- Loose or separated panels: Wind can pull siding away from the house, creating gaps.
- Color fading patterns: Sometimes only visible on vinyl. Damage exposes lighter material underneath.
Pay special attention to the north and west sides of your home —these typically face incoming storm systems in Minnesota and sustain the most damage.
Step 4: Windows and Doors
Windows are vulnerable and expensive to replace. Check thoroughly:
- Cracked or broken glass: Obvious, but check all panes including upper and lower sashes.
- Broken seals: Condensation between panes means the seal failed. Could be storm-related.
- Frame damage: Wood frames can splinter; vinyl frames can crack or warp.
- Caulking issues: Gaps where caulk has failed allow water infiltration.
- Door frame separation: Check entry doors for warping or frame damage that prevents them from closing properly.
Document all window and door damage with close-up photos. These are often covered by homeowners insurance under storm coverage.
Step 5: Interior Inspection and Attic Check
Don't forget to look inside. Water damage may not show up immediately, but catching it early prevents mold and rot.
- Water stains on ceilings: Dark spots or discoloration indicate roof or gutter leaks.
- Attic leaks: If safe to access, check your attic for water droplets, wet insulation, or staining on decking. A flashlight helps.
- Damp walls or musty smells: Could indicate water is seeping in through siding or windows.
- Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper: Water damage behind interior surfaces.
Interior water damage compounds quickly. If you spot signs of leaks, schedule a professional inspection within 48 hours.
Hail Damage vs. Wind Damage: Quick Reference Table
| Characteristic | Hail Damage | Wind Damage |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Circular dents/bruises; dimpled pattern | Torn edges, peeling, missing sections; directional damage |
| Pattern | Random distribution across roof/siding | Concentrated on windward side; follows wind direction |
| Roof Impact | Shingle granule loss; dents in metal; bruised asphalt | Lifted shingles; exposed underlayment; shingles torn away |
| Siding Impact | Small punctures and dents from impact | Panels pulled away, cracked, torn off entirely |
| Insurance Likelihood | Very high (often covered under comprehensive); hail is typical | High but depends on wind speed threshold in policy; deductible applies |
Many Minnesota storms produce both hail and straight-line winds (derechos), so you may see damage from both types on the same property.
Why Choose Modern Exterior Systems for Your Storm Damage Assessment?
- 20+ years of Twin Cities storm damage experience — Joe Dvorak has assessed thousands of storm claims.
- BBB A+ rated and NRCA certified — trusted by homeowners and insurance companies across Minnesota.
- FREE professional storm damage inspections — no obligation, detailed photo documentation for your insurance claim.
- Family-owned and local — serving Minnetonka, Edina, Eden Prairie, and the greater Twin Cities area.
- Insurance claim coordination — we work directly with your insurance adjuster and public adjusters.
Working with Your Insurance Company After a Storm
Once you've assessed the damage, it's time to file a claim. Here's the process:
1. Document Everything Immediately
- Take photos and video of all damage — wide shots and close-ups.
- Date and timestamp your photos (most phones do this automatically).
- Document the state of your property before making repairs . Insurance companies inspect the raw damage.
- Keep receipts for any emergency repairs (like tarping a roof to prevent further water damage).
2. Call Your Insurance Company Promptly
- File your claim as soon as possible after the storm.
- Provide the adjuster with your photos, video, and list of damage.
- Be present during the adjuster's inspection if possible.
- Ask questions if the adjuster's assessment doesn't match what you're seeing.
3. Get a Contractor Estimate
- Obtain written repair estimates from licensed contractors (like Modern Exterior Systems).
- If the insurance company's estimate is lower than contractor bids, request a re-evaluation or supplemental claim.
- Some insurance policies allow you to hire an independent adjuster (public adjuster) to negotiate on your behalf.
4. Consider a Public Adjuster for Large Claims
If your home sustained substantial damage (roof, siding, interior water damage), a public adjuster may be worth the fee (typically 8-10% of the settlement). They specialize in maximizing insurance payouts and can often recover far more than their fee costs.
When to Call a Professional Immediately
Some storm damage is obvious and urgent. Call a contractor right away if you see:
- Active leaks or water dripping inside your home — this needs emergency tarping and repair.
- Large areas of missing shingles or siding — exposed structure is vulnerable to further water damage and deterioration.
- Sagging roof or visible structural damage — safety hazard and potential collapse risk.
- Downed power lines near your home — call the utility company before touching anything.
- Significant tree damage near your roof or siding — falling branches could cause further damage or injury.
- Any damage you're unsure about — a free professional assessment beats guessing.
Modern Exterior Systems responds to storm damage emergencies throughout the Twin Cities. We prioritize safety and can typically assess damage within 24-48 hours of your call.
Frequently Asked Questions About Storm Damage Assessment
Can I walk on my roof to inspect storm damage?
No. Wet or damaged roofs are extremely slippery and unstable. Roof decking may have structural damage you can't see, and one misstep could result in a fall. Use binoculars from ground level or hire a professional. Your safety is not worth the risk.
How long does it take for water damage to show up after a roof leak?
Water damage can appear within hours of a leak, but sometimes takes days to become visible. You might notice water stains, mold, or soft spots weeks after the initial damage. This is why interior inspection is critical—check your attic and upper ceilings within 48 hours of any storm with heavy rain.
Will my homeowners insurance cover storm damage?
Most homeowners policies cover sudden, accidental damage from storms—including hail, wind, and tornadoes. However, coverage depends on your specific policy, deductible, and damage type. Insurance typically does not cover damage from lack of maintenance (like a roof that's already failing). Review your policy or call your agent to confirm coverage before filing a claim.
What if my insurance adjuster's estimate is too low?
You have options. First, get written repair estimates from licensed contractors and send them to your insurance company for reconsideration. If they still won't budge, request a formal appraisal (outlined in most policies) or hire a public adjuster. Don't settle for an estimate that doesn't cover actual repair costs.
How often should I inspect my roof for storm damage?
Check your roof visually from the ground after every major storm (hail, straight-line winds, tornadoes). Schedule a professional inspection annually, and always after severe weather events. In Minnesota, spring and summer storms are most common—plan inspections for late spring and late summer.
Don't Navigate Storm Damage Alone
After a storm in Minnetonka or the Twin Cities, let Modern Exterior Systems handle the assessment. We'll document your damage, guide you through the insurance process, and handle repairs with expert craftsmanship.
Free Storm Damage Inspection • No Obligation • Expert Documentation for Your Claim
Email: info@modexhq.com
Available 24/7 for storm emergencies. Serving Minnetonka, Edina, Eden Prairie, and the greater Twin Cities area.
