A storm can pass in one night and leave weeks of work behind. Storm damage repair goes better when you take it one step at a time: keep water out, document the damage, talk to your insurance company, and then compare bids from local pros for the permanent repairs. This guide walks through what to do first, the common types of damage on the coast, and what to look for in a storm repair bid.
What to do first after a storm
- Stay safe. Stay away from downed power lines and damaged structures.
- Stop the water. Cover roof openings and broken windows with tarps or boards, and dry out the inside.
- Document everything. Take photos and video of every side of the house, the roof, and inside, before cleanup.
- Call your insurance company. Ask how claims work for your policy and what they need from you.
Common storm damage on coastal homes
| Damage | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Siding | Missing or loose panels, often on the side that faced the wind |
| Roofing | Missing or lifted shingles, damaged flashing, debris on the roof |
| Windows | Cracked glass, damaged frames, water around the window |
| Inside | Ceiling stains, damp drywall, musty smells |
Permits and wind inspections
Many cities require a permit for roofing, siding and window work, and some coastal areas also require a wind inspection or certificate after repairs to show the work meets building code, often for wind insurance. Not every repair needs one, and the rules differ by state, county and insurer. Before work starts, check with your local building office and your insurance company, and ask each pro whether your job needs a permit or an inspection and how they handle it.
Water damage: do not wait
Water that gets into walls, insulation or ceilings can lead to mold within days. If you see stains, soft drywall, bubbling paint or a musty smell, ask for a pro who handles water damage to check it before the walls are closed up again. Wet insulation and drywall often need to come out so the wall can dry.
A walk-around checklist after the storm
| Where | What to look for | Photo tip |
|---|---|---|
| Roof (from the ground) | Missing or lifted shingles, bent flashing, debris | Zoom in from each corner of the yard |
| Siding and trim | Missing panels, cracks, dents, loose corner pieces | One wide shot and one close-up per wall |
| Windows and doors | Cracked glass, bent frames, water at the sills | Photograph inside and outside |
| Gutters and fences | Pulled-away gutters, leaning or broken fence sections | Show the whole run |
| Inside | Ceiling stains, damp walls, wet floors, smells | Date-stamped photos every day it changes |
Temporary repairs vs permanent repairs
Temporary repairs stop more damage: a tarp on the roof, boards over a window, a fan to dry a room. They are usually expected right away. Permanent repairs, like a new roof section or new siding, come after the damage is documented and you have compared bids. Keep receipts for both.
Building back stronger on the coast
Repairs are a chance to make the house better able to handle the next storm. Ask pros about wind-rated siding and shingles, better fastening, sealed roof decks, impact-rated windows or shutters, and gutters secured for high winds. Where a wind inspection is required, it checks that repairs meet code, so building it right the first time matters.
Working with your insurance company
- Report the damage early and ask what they need from you.
- Share your photos and keep a list of every damaged area.
- Ask whether they want to see the damage before permanent repairs start.
- Get written bids with a clear scope; they help when you compare with the adjuster's estimate.
- Keep every receipt, including tarps, fans and other temporary repairs.
Common mistakes after a storm
- Cleaning up before taking photos.
- Letting water sit inside "just for a few days".
- Signing with the first person who knocks, before getting written bids.
- Paying a large amount upfront for work that has not started.
- Forgetting to ask whether the repair needs a permit or a wind inspection.
What a storm repair bid should include
- A clear list of the damage they found and what they will repair or replace
- Materials named, including siding and shingle types and wind ratings where it matters
- How they will handle any wind inspection or permit
- Cleanup and haul-away of damaged materials
- A timeline, and a payment schedule tied to finished work
- Warranty terms in writing
Avoid storm chasers
After a big storm, some people go door to door offering quick repairs. Be careful with large upfront payments, pressure to sign today, and anyone who will not give a written bid. Ask for proof of insurance and any license your city or state requires, and compare a few bids before you choose.
Get storm repair bids on BidHandyman
Post your storm repairs free with photos of each area. Only pros approved by BidHandyman can bid. Compare the bids, message the pros and hire the one you like, with no obligation. Post your storm repair, or read about roof replacement and siding repair.