Immediately after a storm
- Keep people away from sagging ceilings
- Avoid electrical hazards and wet fittings
- Do not climb onto the roof
- Photograph visible damage from the ground
- Contact emergency services for immediate danger
- Notify the insurer where relevant
- Arrange qualified make-safe assessment
Make-safe is not always permanent repair
Temporary tarping or stabilisation protects the property while damage is assessed, materials are sourced and insurance requirements are addressed. Ask what is temporary and what is permanent.
Document the event
Record the date, weather, internal water locations and visible external damage without putting anyone at risk. Retain quotes, invoices and photographs for insurer discussions.