Hurricane Roof Damage in Houston: What to Do After the Storm

A safety, documentation, and contractor-comparison checklist for Greater Houston homeowners after wind or rain damage.

Put safety first

Stay clear of downed power lines, unstable trees, standing water, and damaged roof edges. Inspect from the ground or an upper-floor window and leave roof access to an insured professional.

Document before cleanup

Photograph exterior and interior damage, note the storm date, and keep damaged materials when practical. If temporary tarping or water removal is needed, save invoices and before-and-after photos.

Ask your insurer policy-specific questions

Confirm how wind and water damage are treated, which deductible applies, the deadline for reporting damage, and whether emergency mitigation requires prior approval. Coverage varies by policy and cause of loss.

Verify the contractor

Check business registration where applicable, insurance coverage, permits required by the local jurisdiction, recent Houston-area references, written warranty terms, and the exact work scope. Verify requirements directly with the permitting authority for your address.

Compare complete estimates

Make sure estimates address materials, flashing, ventilation, decking allowances, debris removal, permits, payment schedule, and change orders. A lower total is not comparable if major scope items are missing.