Storms can strike without warning—bringing wind, rain, hail, lightning, and debris that damage rental properties and disrupt tenant occupancy. Even a short storm can tear off shingles, break windows, overwhelm gutters, or push water into attics and living areas. For landlords, knowing what to do immediately after storm damage is essential to minimizing repair costs, restoring habitability, and keeping the insurance claims process on track.
If you haven’t reviewed your policy recently, make sure you’re fully protected by visiting our guide to storm and hail damage coverage. Understanding what your policy covers—and the steps required to file a successful claim—can save you time, money, and potential disputes later.
Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide for landlords dealing with storm damage restoration, from safety and documentation to hiring contractors and communicating with tenants.
Inspect the property safely and quickly
The first priority after any storm is safety. Before approaching the property, look for hazards such as fallen power lines, broken glass, gas leaks, sharp debris, or structural instability. If you suspect damage to load-bearing walls, roofing supports, or electrical systems, keep tenants and workers away until the area is cleared by a professional.
Notify tenants immediately about known hazards and remind them not to re-enter the property until you’re certain it is safe. Many tenants, particularly those with pets or personal belongings inside, may try to return prematurely. Clear communication helps protect them and limits your liability exposure.
If you’re managing a single-family home, don’t forget to inspect detached structures such as garages, sheds, fences, and carports. These areas often sustain damage that goes unnoticed until it becomes a larger problem.
As soon as conditions allow, take photos and videos of all visible damage—roof impacts, broken windows, siding cracks, dented gutters, downed tree limbs, and any signs of water intrusion inside the home. Thorough, early documentation is critical for a smooth insurance claim.
Contact your insurance company and file a claim
Once you have initial documentation, contact your insurer immediately. Prompt reporting helps the carrier verify the storm event using regional weather data and prevents delays that could jeopardize claim approval. Most landlord policies cover wind damage, hail impact, and storm-related water intrusion, but exact limits, deductibles, and exclusions vary by policy and state.
If you’re insured through Steadily, your policy likely includes coverage for storm restoration, roof repairs, damaged exterior systems, and loss of rental income if the property becomes temporarily uninhabitable. Ask your insurer whether your specific policy reimburses costs such as emergency tarping, window board-ups, or tree removal from covered structures.
Keep receipts for all temporary repairs or emergency services. Most carriers require professional estimates from licensed contractors, so avoid relying on handyman assessments for claim purposes. A clear, organized paper trail makes a significant difference in how quickly the claim is processed.
Hire a licensed storm damage restoration contractor
After notifying the insurer, secure a licensed contractor who specializes in storm damage restoration—not just general repairs. Specialists understand how to identify hidden issues, document hail and wind impact, and provide reports that align with insurance guidelines.
Prioritize critical structural repairs such as roof damage, compromised siding, broken windows, damaged electrical components, and exposed areas that allow water intrusion. These issues can worsen rapidly if left unaddressed.
For hail damage specifically, ensure your roofer documents granule loss, dented flashing, bruised or lifted shingles, and any areas where the roof membrane has been compromised. Detailed inspection notes are valuable evidence during claim review and help prevent disputes over pre-existing wear.
Document everything for insurance purposes
Storm restoration is not just about fixing the property—it’s about proving the extent and cause of damage. Maintain a running log of all storm-related events and communications. Include tenant reports (such as leaks or electrical issues), contractor assessments, conversations with adjusters, and progress updates.
Take “before and after” photos of each stage of restoration. Insurers often request follow-up documentation to confirm that repairs align with the approved estimate.
If you’re unsure whether your coverage limits are sufficient, ask your insurer for a replacement cost estimator. This tool helps you confirm that your dwelling limit reflects current construction costs, which can fluctuate significantly after regional storms or during periods of high material demand.
Communicate with tenants throughout the process
Tenants should be kept informed from the moment damage is discovered until all repairs are complete. Clear, consistent communication helps reduce stress, prevent misunderstandings, and avoid potential claims of emotional distress.
Let tenants know which repairs are scheduled, when workers will be onsite, and whether utilities or access points may be temporarily disrupted. Transparency builds trust and can help avoid unnecessary conflict.
If the property becomes uninhabitable, issue a notice to vacate and coordinate any temporary housing arrangements required by state law or the terms of your lease. Keep documentation of all correspondence, including move-out instructions and updates about the restoration timeline.
Prevent future storm damage with proactive measures
Once repairs are complete, take steps to minimize future storm damage. Trim overhanging trees and remove dead branches that could break off during high winds and become airborne debris. Regular tree maintenance is one of the simplest ways to prevent roof and siding damage.
Schedule annual roof inspections, especially if your property is located in hail-prone states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, or Kansas. Early detection of vulnerable shingles or compromised flashing can prevent more serious damage in a future storm.
Electrical damage is another risk often overlooked. Installing whole-home surge protection or lightning rods can reduce the likelihood of fires or destroyed appliances during severe weather. Consider upgrading older electrical panels or wiring if your property experiences repeated surges or breaker issues.
More storm damage topics
Bottom line: restore quickly, document thoroughly, and stay protected
Storm damage can derail your rental income and disrupt tenant stability if you’re not prepared. By acting quickly, prioritizing safety, maintaining strong documentation, and understanding what your landlord policy covers, you can reduce losses and protect your long-term investment.
Need to make sure you’re covered before the next storm hits? Get a quote from Steadily in minutes.
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