Storms are a fact of life in the Pine Belt Mississippi region, and when they hit, they can leave behind significant roof damage. Whether it’s high winds, heavy rain, or hail, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a storm can help protect your home and speed up the recovery process.
At Cox Roofing, we understand the challenges that homeowners face after severe weather. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take after a storm to ensure your home and roof are safe. If you need to involve the insurance adjuster, we have over 20 years of experience working with insurance companies to ensure you get the funds you need.
Before inspecting your home, make sure it’s safe to do so.
If your home has suffered damage, you’ll need clear documentation for your homeowners' insurance claim.
Why It Matters: Proper documentation can speed up the insurance claim process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense; even minor damage can lead to more significant problems if left unaddressed. Look for:
✅ Missing shingles
✅ Dents from hail or fallen debris
✅ Leaks or water stains on ceilings
✅ Clogged or damaged gutters
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a trusted roofing professional like Cox Roofing for a thorough inspection.
If your roof has minor damage, you can take temporary measures to prevent further damage:
⛔ What NOT to Do:
Even if your roof looks fine from the ground, there could be hidden damage that only a professional can detect. At Cox Roofing, we offer FREE post-storm inspections to ensure your home is fully protected.
A professional inspection includes:
✔ Checking for structural damage
✔ Inspecting flashing, gutters, and attic spaces
✔ Identifying hidden leaks that could lead to mold and rot
Navigating the insurance claims process can be frustrating, but Cox Roofing can help.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t wait too long to file your claim—most insurance companies have deadlines for storm damage claims!
Once your claim is approved, it’s time to restore your home. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need roof repairs or even a complete roof replacement.
At Cox Roofing, we provide:
✅ High-quality materials with warranties that withstand future storms
✅ Go Nano Roof Sealer option
✅ Fast, reliable service to restore your home quickly
✅ Affordable financing options for repair costs
Even if your roof looks intact, storms can cause hidden leaks that lead to water damage inside your home.
🛑 Signs of Water Damage to Look For:
💡 Why It’s Important:
If not addressed quickly, water damage can lead to mold growth, structural weakening, and costly repairs. If you notice any signs, contact Cox Roofing for a professional inspection before the problem worsens.
Once your roof is repaired, take steps to storm-proof your home before the next weather event.
🔹 Trim trees near your roof to prevent falling branches.
🔹 Secure loose items like patio furniture that could become projectiles in high winds.
🔹 Check your gutters and keep them clear to prevent water buildup.
🔹 Upgrade to impact-resistant shingles if you live in a high-risk storm area.
After the aftermath of a storm and tornados that ravaged the Collins, MS, area on March 15th, a customer contacted Jonathan Cox, owner of Cox Roofing, in distress about her storm-damaged roof. Jonathan took immediate action and went to inspect the property damage. Upon arrival, Jonathan noticed significant damage and helped the customer contact the insurance company to file a claim. In an effort to protect the home's interior, his team also tarped the roof to protect it from roof leaks if another storm popped up. Unfortunately, this roof is over 20 years old and will most likely need to be replaced entirely. This is why it is extremely important to have annual inspections by a professional roofing contractor to make sure the roof stays in good condition and is covered by insurance.
After a storm, it’s natural to want to handle repairs as quickly as possible. However, rushing the process or making missteps can lead to bigger problems down the road. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
❌ Delaying Inspections & Repairs
Even if your roof looks fine from the ground, hidden damage can worsen over time. Delaying an inspection can lead to leaks, mold growth, and costly structural issues. Always schedule a professional inspection as soon as possible.
❌ Falling for Storm Chasers
After major storms, out-of-town contractors (often called "storm chasers") flood affected areas, offering quick, cheap repairs. Unfortunately, many disappear after the job, leaving homeowners with poor workmanship and no warranty. Always hire a trusted, local roofing company like Cox Roofing.
❌ Attempting DIY Repairs
While it might be tempting to fix minor roof damage yourself, climbing onto a storm-damaged roof is extremely dangerous. Plus, improper repairs can void your insurance coverage. Leave the repairs to licensed professionals.
❌ Not Understanding Insurance Coverage
Insurance policies can be complex, and missing a deadline or submitting incomplete documentation can delay or even deny your claim. Work with a roofing contractor who has experience navigating the claims process to ensure you receive the coverage you deserve.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure a smoother recovery process and better protect your home for future storms.
When a storm hits, you need a trusted local roofing contractor to assess the damage and guide you through the recovery process. Cox Roofing has served the Pine Belt region for over 20 years, providing reliable, high-quality roofing services tailored to our community's unique weather challenges. We offer free storm damage inspections to ensure your home is thoroughly assessed for both visible and hidden damage. Plus, navigating insurance claims can be overwhelming—but with our insurance claim expertise, we work directly with adjusters to help you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait until minor damage turns into a costly repair—contact Cox Roofing today for your free storm damage inspection!
