Understand the different questions an inspector asks
Wind-related evaluation considers displaced coverings, edges and attachments, along with possible debris impact. Hail evaluation considers impact effects appropriate to the material. The inspector should identify where each condition occurs and what remains uncertain.
The National Weather Service explains that damaging straight-line winds occur with severe thunderstorms. Storm-type information is context for the inspection, not proof that a particular roof condition was caused by that event.
Separate impact evidence from displaced components
A report should distinguish dents or impact marks from missing, lifted or moved roofing components, and should explain whether the condition affects appearance, attachment or water management. A single roof area can need more than one kind of repair.
GAF’s shingle hail bulletin discusses impact indentations and fractures. Those observations should not be used as a complete diagnostic rule for metal panels, low-slope membranes or unrelated granule loss.
Build one event record with distinct findings
Record the event date, safe photographs, affected interior locations and temporary protection. Ask for a roof plan that locates each observed condition and for photographs that include context as well as close-ups.
- Identify the material and roof area for each finding.
- Distinguish visible facts from the evaluator’s cause opinion.
- Keep prior repairs and known pre-event conditions in the record.
- Ask whether further investigation could change the repair scope.
- Avoid climbing onto the roof to compare damage patterns yourself.
Use the findings to define work and discuss coverage
The construction proposal should address the actual damaged components and connections. If the insurer asks for more information, supply the relevant observations and estimate through the owner’s claim process.
TDI explains that a contractor cannot act as the policyholder’s public adjuster, or advertise claim-adjusting services, for property where it provides or may provide contracting work. A report identifying wind or hail conditions still leaves the coverage decision to the policy review.