Storm Damage: What to Do in the First 24 Hours
Michael Myers- Storm Damage
- April 19, 2026
If your home has storm damage, the first 24 hours are critical to prevent further loss, protect your safety, and ensure your insurance claim goes smoothly. Act immediately by securing your home, documenting damage, and contacting a trusted local contractor. This guide walks you step by step through exactly what to do after a storm in Central Indiana, including costs, insurance tips, and next steps.
Step by Step: What to Do in the First 24 Hours
1. Ensure Safety First (Immediately)
Before anything else, make sure your home is safe.
- Stay away from downed power lines
- Check for gas leaks or electrical hazards
- Evacuate if structural damage is severe
- Do not climb on your roof
If conditions are unsafe, call emergency services before doing anything else.
2. Stop Further Damage (Within Hours)
Preventing additional damage protects your home and strengthens your insurance claim.
Take quick action:
- Tarp exposed roof areas
- Board up broken windows
- Move valuables away from leaks
- Place buckets or towels to catch water
In Central Indiana, storms often come in waves. A small leak can turn into major interior damage within hours if another storm hits.
3. Document Everything (Before Cleanup)
This step is essential for your storm damage insurance claim.
Make sure to capture:
- Wide shots of your entire home exterior
- Close ups of roof, siding, and gutters
- Interior damage such as ceilings, drywall, and flooring
- A full video walkthrough of all affected areas
4. Contact a Local Storm Damage Expert
Do not rely only on your insurance adjuster.
A trusted contractor like Myers Exteriors can:
- Perform a full exterior inspection
- Identify hidden damage, which is very common with hail
- Meet with your insurance adjuster
- Help ensure your claim is accurate and complete
5. File Your Insurance Claim (Same Day if Possible)
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after documenting damage.
Be ready to provide:
- Date and time of the storm
- Description of what happened
- Photos and videos
- Inspection findings, if available
Filing quickly helps tie your damage to a specific storm event, which can make approvals smoother.
6. Schedule a Professional Inspection (Within 24 Hours)
Even if damage looks minor, underlying issues are common.
Hidden damage may include:
- Hail impact bruising on shingles
- Lifted or creased shingles from wind
- Cracked or loosened siding
- Damaged flashing, vents, or gutters
What Storm Damage Repairs Cost in 2026 (Indiana)
Storm damage repair costs vary depending on severity, but here are realistic 2026 ranges for Central Indiana homeowners:
- Emergency roof tarping: typically $300 to $1,200
- Minor roof repairs: usually $500 to $2,500
- Full roof replacement: often $8,000 to $18,000+
- Siding repairs: around $300 to $1,500 per section
- Gutter replacement: about $1,000 to $3,500
Many hail damage claims in Indiana result in full roof replacements that are largely covered by insurance, depending on your deductible.
What Not to Do After Storm Damage
Avoid these common mistakes that can cost you money or delay your claim:
- Waiting several days to take action
- Throwing away damaged materials too early
- Accepting the first insurance estimate without review
- Hiring out of town storm chasers
- Attempting DIY roof repairs
Why Local Matters After a Storm
Storms across Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, and surrounding areas often bring in out of state contractors looking for quick jobs.
Here is why working with a local company matters:
- Faster response times
- Understanding of Indiana storm patterns
- Reliable warranties and follow up service
- Long term accountability
We have seen homeowners regret hiring storm chasers who disappear after the job. Working with a local company helps protect you long term.
Storm Damage Checklist
- Ensure safety
- Stop further damage by tarping, boarding up, and protecting the interior
- Document everything with photos and video
- Contact a local contractor
- File your insurance claim
- Schedule an inspection within 24 hours
FAQ: Storm Damage in the First 24 Hours
How quickly should I act after storm damage?
Immediately. The first 24 hours are critical to prevent further damage and protect your insurance claim.
Should I call insurance or a contractor first?
Call a contractor first for a proper inspection, then file your claim with accurate documentation.
How do I know if I have hail damage?
Signs include dented gutters, missing granules, and cracked shingles, but a professional inspection is the best way to confirm.
Will insurance cover storm damage repairs?
Most policies cover hail and wind damage, but you will typically be responsible for your deductible.
Can I wait a few days before fixing damage?
No. Waiting can worsen the damage and may negatively impact your claim.
Do I need to be home for an inspection?
Not always. Many inspections can be completed externally, with results reviewed afterward.
Get Your Storm Damage Inspection Scheduled
If your home was hit by hail or high winds, do not wait. Schedule your inspection now.
Protect your home, maximize your claim, and get expert help fast.
