What Should I Inspect After a Major Storm Hits My Home?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
Start with Your Roof and Exterior
Begin your inspection outside, looking for missing or damaged shingles on your roof. Check for dents on metal flashing around vents and chimneys. Look at your siding for cracks or holes that could let water in. Examine window seals and frames for any gaps or broken glass.
Walk around your home's perimeter. Look for any debris, like branches, that could have damaged siding or clogged gutters. Clear debris from downspouts to ensure proper drainage away from your foundation. This quick check prevents future water intrusion by keeping water flowing away from the house.
- Missing or cracked roof shingles
- Dented or loose metal flashing
- Cracked or loose siding panels
- Damaged window seals or frames
- Clogged gutters and downspouts
- Debris piled against the house
Check Attics and Interior Ceilings
Go into your attic with a flashlight, if it is safe to access. Look for any signs of water stains on the underside of the roof decking or on insulation. Check for wet spots or drips around roof penetrations, like plumbing vents. Feel the insulation for dampness, as wet insulation loses its effectiveness.
Inside your home, inspect ceilings in every room, especially under the roof. Water stains often appear as brownish rings or dark spots. Feel the drywall or plaster for soft spots or sagging, which indicates trapped moisture. Pay close attention to corners and areas around light fixtures, as leaks often travel along framing.
Inspect Your Foundation and Lower Levels
Look for new cracks in your home's concrete foundation or exterior walls. Small hairline cracks may be normal, but new, wider cracks can signal soil movement from saturation. Check for any signs of water pooling against the foundation or in window wells, as this water can seep inside.
If you have a crawl space or lower-level area, check it for moisture. Use a flashlight to look for damp spots on walls and floors. A musty smell is a strong indicator of excess moisture. Water in these areas needs to be addressed quickly to prevent structural damage and mold growth.
Evaluate Landscaping and Drainage
Inspect your yard for erosion or areas where water has pooled. Look for soil that has washed away from your foundation, exposing the concrete. Check if your yard's grading still slopes away from the house, as storms can alter the landscape. Poor drainage directs water toward your home instead of away from it.
Examine trees and large shrubs for broken limbs hanging over your roof or power lines. Loose limbs can fall and cause significant damage later. Look for any areas where mulch or soil has been swept into piles against the house. Clear these away to maintain a dry zone around your foundation.
- Soil erosion near the foundation
- Pooling water in low areas of the yard
- Altered slope or grading directing water toward the house
- Damaged or overhanging tree limbs
- Mulch or debris piled against siding
- Clogged or damaged yard drains
Talk to someone now
Phones are answered 24/7 for Long Beach and nearby communities.
Call Now (562) 512-6288Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I find roof damage?
Document the damage with clear photos from the ground. If safe, cover any holes from inside your attic with a tarp to prevent further water entry. Contact a qualified roofer for a professional inspection and repair. Do not attempt to climb onto a storm-damaged roof yourself.
How does storm damage affect my insurance claim?
Take detailed photos and videos of all damage you find, both inside and out. Make a list of damaged items and areas. Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
When should I call a water damage professional?
Call local water damage pros if you find standing water, significant leaks, or wet building materials like drywall or insulation. They have the equipment to dry structures properly and prevent secondary damage like mold. Acting quickly can limit the overall scope of repairs needed.
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