What to do if…
you see roof tiles or shingles missing after high winds

What to do now

1. Move people and pets away from the danger area. Keep clear of the ground below the damaged roof edge, loose tiles, loose shingles, gutters, metal edging, nails, and debris.
2. Check for urgent hazards from a safe place. If you see downed power lines, sparking, electrical arcing, fire, a gas smell, major roof collapse, heavy ceiling sagging, or water pouring through electrical fixtures, leave the area and call 911.
3. Reduce indoor water damage if you can do it safely. Put buckets or towels under drips, move electronics and valuables away from the leak, and avoid rooms where the ceiling is bulging or sagging.
4. Turn off affected power only if it is safe. If water is reaching outlets, lights, or wiring and you can reach the breaker without standing in water or under a damaged ceiling, turn off power to that affected area.
5. Document what you can from safe positions. Take wide and close photos or video from the ground, through windows, from across the street, and inside the home. Capture missing shingles or tiles, interior leaks, damaged belongings, fallen debris, and the date and time you noticed the damage.
6. Contact the right person before permanent repairs. If you own the home, contact your homeowners insurance company and ask how to handle temporary covering, photos, receipts, and contractor estimates. If you rent, notify your landlord or property manager immediately and ask for their emergency repair route; your renters policy may help with damaged belongings or temporary living costs, depending on your policy.
7. Use temporary protection only if it can be done safely. If an opening needs covering, use a qualified, insured roofer or emergency repair company rather than climbing yourself. Check any state or local license requirements before hiring where possible.
8. Keep receipts and records. Keep receipts for tarping, emergency roof covering, cleanup supplies, hotel costs, and damaged-item replacement. Write down who you spoke with, the date, and what they told you.
9. If a federal disaster may apply, use official routes only. FEMA assistance generally requires a presidentially declared disaster area and may not cover all losses. Apply or check eligibility only through official government channels.
10. Slow down contractor decisions. For non-urgent work, get written estimates, ask for proof of insurance, check state or local licensing where required, and avoid anyone who pressures you to sign immediately or says they can get FEMA money for a fee.