Storm Damage · Treasure Coast, FL
Storm & Hurricane Roof Damage in Florida: What to Do, Repair vs. Replace & Insurance Claims
After a major storm, the gap between a small repair and a five-figure replacement often comes down to how fast you act and how well the damage is documented. Here’s exactly what to do — from a licensed Florida roofer.
On the Treasure Coast, your roof takes a beating that roofs in most of the country never see — hurricane-force winds, wind-driven rain, hail, salt air, and relentless sun. Here’s what to do after a storm, and how Florida roof insurance claims actually work in 2026.
The first 24–48 hours after a storm
- Stay safe first. Don’t climb on a wet or damaged roof, and stay clear of downed power lines. Inspection is our job — and ours is insured for it.
- Document everything from the ground. Photos and video of the roof, interior leaks or stains, gutters, soffit, and fascia. Note the storm date — the timeline matters for your claim.
- Stop the bleeding. If water is getting in, a professional tarp or temporary patch protects your home and prevents the damage from spreading.
- Get a professional inspection. Most storm damage isn’t visible from the ground. A documented inspection is the foundation of a strong insurance claim.
Signs your roof took storm damage
- Missing, cracked, curled, or lifted shingles — or granules in the gutters
- Dented or loosened metal panels, or damaged flashing
- Cracked, slipped, or missing tiles
- Water stains on ceilings/walls, or daylight in the attic
- Sagging spots or a musty attic smell after rain
- Damaged soffit, fascia, ridge, or drip edge
Even “minor” looking damage matters in Florida — a single lifted edge can become a major leak in the next downpour.
Repair or replace?
A repair is usually right when damage is localized and the roof has years of life left — a section of blown-off shingles or a few cracked tiles. A replacement makes more sense when damage is widespread, the roof is near the end of its life, or repeated repairs no longer pay off. An honest inspection — including the decking and underlayment, not just the surface — is the only way to know. We’ll tell you which is the smarter call, even when it’s the smaller job. Learn more about roof repair and roof replacement.
How roof insurance claims work in Florida (2026)
- Covered perils. Policies typically cover sudden events like wind, hail, and falling debris — not wear-and-tear.
- ACV vs. RCV. RCV pays full replacement minus your deductible; ACV subtracts depreciation first, so the payout can be far lower.
- The 25% rule & SB 4-D. Since 2022, if your roof meets the 2007-or-newer code, insurers generally cover only the damaged portion, not a full replacement.
- Roof age (Statute 627.7011). Insurers may non-renew at 15+ years — but a certified 5+ years of remaining life generally requires coverage to continue.
- Deadlines (SB 2A). Generally one year from the date of loss to file, 18 months for a supplemental claim. Don’t wait.
This is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Coverage depends on your specific policy — confirm details with your insurer. We’re licensed roofers, not public adjusters, but we’ll document your damage thoroughly.
How Leeward Roofing helps after a storm
We’re a licensed, insured, family-owned Florida roofing contractor (CCC1337211) right here on the Treasure Coast.
- Free, no-pressure inspection — we photograph everything
- Clear written assessment and estimate for your insurer
- Temporary protection so damage doesn’t spread
- Permits and inspections handled as your licensed contractor
- Clean, code-compliant repair or replacement, with warranty
Storm damage roof FAQs
How long do I have to file a roof claim in Florida?
Generally one year from the date of loss for the initial claim and 18 months for a supplemental claim — but file as soon as possible.
Will insurance cover a 15-year-old roof?
It depends. Insurers can non-renew at 15 years, but a certification that the roof has 5+ years of life left generally requires coverage to continue. Get an inspection.
Is one missing shingle worth a claim?
Maybe not on its own — but it can signal wider damage and is an easy entry point for water. An inspection tells you whether it’s cosmetic or the start of a bigger problem.
Should I get an inspection even with no visible leak?
Yes. Most storm damage is invisible until it’s already caused rot. A roof inspection catches it early.
Get a free storm-damage roof inspection
If a storm has rolled through the Treasure Coast, don’t wait for a stain on the ceiling. We’ll tell you exactly what we find and help you protect your home and your claim.
