Long Island gets hit hard. Nor'easters, tropical storms, summer microbursts — the weather here doesn't give roofs much of a break. If your home took a hit, here's exactly what to do — in the right order.
Step 1: Stay Safe First
Don't get on the roof immediately after a storm, and be especially cautious if there are downed power lines nearby, tree limbs or debris resting on the roof, or the roof deck appears to be sagging or structurally compromised. Assess what you can from the ground.
Step 2: Document Everything Before Touching Anything
Before you move debris, cover damage, or make any temporary repairs, document the condition of your roof thoroughly with photos and video. Walk around the entire exterior of your home and include wide shots, close-ups of damage, any debris still on the roof, and interior water damage. Date and time stamps from your phone's camera will log automatically. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim.
Step 3: Cover Active Leaks Temporarily
If water is coming in and more rain is expected, a temporary tarp can prevent significant interior damage while you wait for a contractor to assess the situation. At Smart Choice Contracting, emergency roof repairs are part of what we do. Call (631) 314-6289 if you need an immediate response.
Step 4: Call Your Homeowner's Insurance
Contact your insurance company or agent promptly. Most policies require that storm damage be reported within a reasonable timeframe. When you call, describe the nature of the damage, reference your documentation, ask about your deductible and the claims process, and request a claims adjuster visit.
Step 5: Get a Professional Inspection — Before the Adjuster Comes
Here's something most homeowners don't know: you're entitled to have your own contractor inspect the damage and provide a written assessment before — or alongside — the insurance adjuster's visit. Adjusters work for the insurance company. Having your own inspection documentation gives you a clear baseline and ensures the adjuster doesn't minimize the damage.
What Storm Damage Looks Like on Long Island Roofs
Wind damage: Missing shingles, shingles with lifted or broken seals, damaged ridge cap, debris impact marks.
Hail damage: Dark circular impact marks on shingles, granule loss concentrated in impact areas, dented flashing or gutters, soft bruised spots on shingles. Hail damage is commonly underestimated — it may not cause an immediate leak, but it accelerates shingle aging significantly.
Falling debris: Punctures or tears in shingles, damaged or cracked decking underneath, crushed flashing or gutters at the impact point.
Working with Insurance on Storm Damage Claims
Smart Choice Contracting works with homeowners on insurance claims regularly. We inspect the damage, provide a written scope of work and estimate, and you share this with your adjuster. If the adjuster's assessment is lower than our estimate, we can document our reasoning and support you in the dispute process. We work within the insurance payment structure — we don't ask you to pay more than your policy covers (minus your deductible).
After the Storm: Don't Wait
Storm damage tends to worsen quickly. A missing shingle exposes the underlayment to UV and rain. A small leak becomes a large one. Interior water damage leads to mold. Acting quickly protects both your home and your claim.
Call us for an emergency inspection: (631) 314-6289 — available for emergency roof repairs across Nassau and Suffolk County. Suffolk County License #HI-62204 | Nassau County License #189141 | Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor.
