How Do You Spot Storm Damage After a Bad Night?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Check the Roof and Gutters
After a rough night, the roof takes the first hit. Walk around your home and look for missing or lifted shingles, torn flashing, or dents in gutters and downspouts. A shifted gutter can send water down the siding instead of away from the foundation.
Use binoculars if you cannot safely see the roof from the ground. Check for branches resting on the roofline or scratches in the shingles. If you spot anything, note the location and take a photo. That helps you track changes and gives a record for later.
- Look for shingles or tiles in the yard
- Check for bent or detached gutters
- Inspect the flashing around chimneys and vents
- Look for dark streaks on the siding
- Check the attic for wet spots or daylight
Inspect Windows and Doors
Strong winds can force water past seals and frames. Check every window and door, especially on the side the storm hit hardest. Run a hand along the sill and frame to feel for dampness. Look for swollen wood, peeling paint, or cracked caulk.
Open and close each window and door to see if they stick or catch. A frame that has shifted can leave a gap for water. If you find a leak, dry the area and note the spot. A temporary seal can help until a pro can assess the damage.
Look for Water Stains Indoors
Water often shows up first as a stain on a ceiling or wall. Check every room, especially under the attic and near exterior walls. Look for yellow or brown rings, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall. A fresh stain after a storm is a clear sign that water got in.
Feel the walls and ceilings for dampness. Use a flashlight to inspect corners and around light fixtures. If you find a stain, mark the edges with a pencil and check again in a few hours to see if it has grown. That tells you whether the leak is active.
Check the Lowest Level and Foundation
Storm water can seep through foundations or enter through cracks. Look for puddles, damp spots, or a musty smell on the lowest level. Check the floor near walls and around any drain. If you have a crawl space, shine a light in to see standing water.
Also check the exterior grade. If soil is piled against the siding or there is a low spot near the foundation, water may pool and push inside. You can divert downspouts away from the house, but a larger issue needs a pro to inspect.
Document What You Find
Take photos of every sign of damage, from the roof to the lowest level. Write down the date and time, and note the weather that night. This record helps you remember details and gives a clear picture to anyone you ask for help.
If you see active leaks, try to contain the water with buckets and move belongings to a dry area. Do not turn on ceiling fans if the drywall is wet. For a full picture, a pro can do an inspection and help you decide what needs repair. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
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Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I find a stain on the ceiling?
Mark the edges with a pencil and check it again in a few hours. If it grows, you have an active leak. Put a bucket under it and move furniture away. Call a pro to inspect the roof and attic.
How can I tell if a window is leaking?
Run a hand along the sill and frame to feel for dampness. Look for swollen wood or peeling paint. If the window is hard to open or close, the frame may have shifted. Dry the area and seal gaps temporarily.
Should I go into the attic after a storm?
Yes, if it is safe. Look for wet insulation, stained rafters, or daylight through the roof. Use a flashlight and watch your step. If you see active leaks, place a bucket and call a pro for a full assessment.