The Storm Inspection Process

Safety first

Use a properly set ladder (4:1 ratio, 3 ft above the edge), soft-soled boots, and fall protection on steep or wet roofs. Never walk tile or slate without training. Skip the roof entirely in lightning, ice or high wind.

The StormBuddy walkthrough

Run it the same way every time so nothing gets missed.

1. Pre-check

Pull storm data for the address: date, hail size, wind speed. Confirm with the homeowner.

2. Ground & collateral

Walk the perimeter: gutters, downspouts, siding, screens, AC units, fences, vehicles.

3. Roof overview

Photograph every slope from the eave. Note pitch, layers, shingle type and age.

4. Test squares & details

Chalk test squares, inspect soft metals, vents, pipe boots, ridge, valleys and flashing.

5. Measurements

Capture squares, pitch, ridge/hip/valley/eave/rake footage, penetrations.

6. Attic (if accessible)

Look for daylight, staining, wet decking and ventilation issues.

7. Debrief

Walk the homeowner through photos. Explain next steps honestly.

Photos that hold up

For every damage point: one wide shot for location, one medium shot for context, one close-up with chalk and a scale reference. Label photos by slope (front, rear, left, right).