The Ultimate Nashville Homeowner’s Storm Damage Checklist

Each year, homeowners across Middle Tennessee face the reality of powerful spring and fall storms. High winds, hail, and heavy rainfall can cause significant damage to roofs, siding, gutters, and other parts of your home—often before you even realize it’s happened.

When a storm hits Nashville, knowing exactly what to do afterward can make all the difference in preventing further damage and avoiding costly repairs. This Ultimate Nashville Homeowner’s Storm Damage Checklist from Quality Refurb Roofing & Construction walks you through the essential steps to protect your property and get your home back in shape quickly and safely.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before you assess any storm damage, always put safety first.

• Stay indoors until the storm has completely passed and it’s safe to go outside.

• Watch for downed power lines or broken tree limbs that could pose hazards.

• If you suspect structural damage to your home or roof, avoid entering unsafe areas until they’ve been inspected by a professional.

Never climb onto your roof immediately after a storm—especially if it’s wet, slippery, or damaged.

Step 2: Inspect Your Roof from the Ground

Once conditions are safe, perform a visual inspection of your roof from the ground using binoculars or your phone’s zoom camera. Look for signs such as:

• Missing, cracked, or curled shingles

• Dents or divots from hail impacts

• Exposed underlayment or flashing

• Displaced ridge caps or vent covers

• Debris like branches or shingles scattered in your yard

Even if your roof looks mostly intact, minor damage can quickly lead to leaks and interior water damage.

Step 3: Check Gutters, Downspouts, and Soffit

Gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your home’s foundation—but during storms, they often take a beating.

• Check for sagging, detached, or clogged gutters.

• Make sure downspouts are properly connected and draining away from your home.

• Inspect your soffit and fascia for cracks, rot, or water stains, which can indicate hidden leaks.

If water can’t flow freely through your gutter system, it can back up and damage your roof, siding, or foundation.

Step 4: Examine Siding, Windows, and Doors

Storms can impact more than just your roof. As you walk around your home, inspect these areas:

• Siding: Look for cracks, holes, or warping caused by wind or hail.

• Windows and doors: Check for broken glass, damaged seals, or leaks around the frames.

• Trim and caulking: Make sure all joints remain sealed to prevent water infiltration.

If you spot damage, temporary tarps or plastic coverings can help prevent moisture from entering until repairs can be made.

Step 5: Inspect Your Attic and Ceilings

Water damage doesn’t always appear right away. Go inside your attic and check for:

• Damp insulation or wood framing

• Water stains on rafters

• Light shining through the roof deck

• Musty smells indicating mold or mildew

In the living areas of your home, look for discoloration on ceilings and walls. These are early warning signs of roof leaks that need immediate attention.

Step 6: Take Photos and Document Everything

Before making any repairs or cleanup, take detailed photos and videos of all visible damage. Capture close-ups of affected areas, as well as wider shots that show the full scope of the damage.

This documentation will be extremely helpful when filing an insurance claim or when you bring in a roofing professional like Quality Refurb Roofing & Construction to provide an inspection and estimate.

Step 7: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Even if your roof appears to have only minor damage, hidden problems could cause leaks weeks or months later. That’s why it’s essential to schedule a professional roof inspection after any major storm.

A qualified roofing contractor can:

• Identify damage not visible from the ground

• Provide a full written assessment for insurance purposes

• Recommend whether repairs or a full replacement are needed

• Secure your roof temporarily with tarps or sealants if necessary

In Nashville and surrounding areas, Quality Refurb Roofing & Construction offers free storm damage inspections to help homeowners protect their investment and restore peace of mind.

Step 8: Contact Your Insurance Company

If your home has sustained significant storm damage, contact your insurance company promptly. Share your photos, inspection report, and any estimates from contractors.

Your roofer can often assist in the claims process by meeting with the adjuster, explaining the extent of damage, and ensuring you receive fair coverage for necessary repairs.

Step 9: Schedule Storm Damage Repairs Quickly

Delaying roof or exterior repairs after a storm can lead to larger, more expensive issues—like water intrusion, mold growth, or structural rot. Choose a reputable, licensed, and insured local roofing contractor who has experience with Nashville’s weather challenges and can handle roofing, gutters, siding, soffit, fascia, and other home repairs.

Step 10: Prevent Future Damage

Once repairs are complete, take proactive steps to minimize future storm damage:

• Schedule annual roof inspections and maintenance.

• Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris.

• Trim overhanging trees near your roof.

• Consider impact-resistant shingles for better hail protection.

Storm damage can be stressful—but having a clear plan makes recovery much easier. By following this checklist and working with trusted professionals, you can protect your home and restore it quickly after severe weather hits.

If your Nashville home has been affected by wind, hail, or heavy rain, Quality Refurb Roofing & Construction is here to help. Our licensed and insured team provides expert storm damage inspections, roof repairs, gutter replacements, siding work, and more—all with honest communication and dependable service.

Call today or visit our contact page to schedule your free storm damage inspection and protect your home before the next storm rolls through.