Hurricane Season Roof Checklist for U.S. Homeowners
Hurricane season runs June 1 – November 30 in the Atlantic, with peak risk from mid-August through October. This is the checklist insurance agents wish every homeowner used before a storm.
Before the season (May)
- Get a roof inspection — fix small problems before they become failures
- Clean gutters and downspouts — clogged gutters cause water backup and fascia rot
- Trim trees — remove limbs within 10 feet of the roof
- Check flashing and seals — around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Secure loose shingles — one shingle coming off in wind can take a whole row with it
- Photograph your roof from the ground (all four sides) for pre-storm documentation
- Review your insurance — know your hurricane deductible (often 2–5% of home value, not a flat amount)
7 days before landfall
- Clear the yard: lawn furniture, grills, planters, anything that can become a projectile
- Trim dead branches — they become missiles in 100+ mph winds
- Photograph the interior and exterior of your home
- Charge all devices and stock batteries
- Confirm your contractor contact — find a licensed roofer in advance
48 hours before
- Board up windows if instructed
- Move valuables away from windows and to interior rooms
- Fill bathtubs and containers with water
- Have cash on hand — ATMs may be down for days
- Confirm you have a way to report a claim (insurer app or phone number saved offline)
During the storm
- Stay away from windows
- Do not go outside, even during the "eye" — winds reverse direction
- If the roof is compromised, move to the lowest interior room
- Do not attempt to tarp or repair during the storm
Immediately after
- Check for downed power lines and gas leaks before exiting
- Photograph everything — the roof from the ground, interior water damage, debris
- Open your claim the same day (insurers get flooded with claims — early is better)
- Tarp any open areas (save receipts — usually reimbursable)
- Do not throw away damaged materials until the adjuster visits
- Watch for storm-chaser contractors — verify license and insurance before hiring
Hurricane deductible warning
Many U.S. coastal policies have a separate hurricane deductible (typically 2–5% of dwelling coverage) that is much higher than your standard deductible. A 3% deductible on a $400,000 home is $12,000 — not the $2,000 you may be used to. Know your number before a storm, not after.
Frequently asked questions
Does insurance cover hurricane roof damage?
Yes if you have a standard HO-3 or HO-5 policy (which include windstorm), but the hurricane deductible applies. Flood damage requires separate flood insurance — standard policies exclude it.
Can I replace my roof before hurricane season?
Yes, and it is a good idea in high-risk zones. Schedule 4–6 months ahead — contractors get booked solid by April.
How do I document for the best claim?
Photograph the roof before the storm (annual), after the storm (multiple angles), and every damaged area inside. Save receipts for emergency mitigation. Use timestamped photos or an app.
What if my roof is still damaged from last season?
Fix it before the next storm. Prior damage often voids coverage for a new claim — insurers will note that the roof was already compromised. Check your policy.
Related guides
Florida roof guide · Storm damage · Claim checklist · Avoiding scams