Shingles missing or lifted after wind

Exposed underlayment or bare deck leaks in the next rain. Get it covered or repaired before that.

What is probably happening

• Wind got under tabs whose sealant strip had let go and tore them off, usually along edges, ridges and the side the wind came from.
• Lifted shingles that are still attached have broken their seal and will go in the next storm.
• Shingles in the yard mean the roof has open areas. Underlayment may be holding for now.

Do this in the next five minutes

1. Photograph the roof from every side from the ground, and the shingles in the yard, before anything is cleaned up.
2. Date the storm. Note the time. Your insurer and adjuster will ask.
3. Look in the attic for daylight or wet spots under the bare area.
4. Call a roofer for a same-day or next-day tarp if rain is coming. Keep the receipt.
5. Call your insurer if the damage is more than a handful of shingles. Ask what the deductible is before deciding to file.
6. Get two or three written quotes from established local roofers before you sign anything.

Do not

• Do not climb up to nail loose shingles back. Wind-damaged roofs are where falls happen, and OSHA's fall protection line in construction is six feet.
• Do not sign with a door knocker. See the storm-chaser page.
• Do not let anyone waive your deductible. That is illegal in Texas, Florida and Colorado, and Florida's required contract notice calls it insurance fraud (F.S. 489.147).

Ask this contractor, on the phone, before anyone comes out

Tap each one as you ask it.

• How many shingles are gone, and how many are lifted but still attached?
• Can you match my existing shingle, and if not, what do you propose?
• Is this a repair or a replacement, and what on my roof makes the difference?
• Will you be handling, negotiating or advising on my insurance claim in any way?
• Are you offering to cover any part of my deductible?

End the call if

• An offer to waive or absorb the deductible. Florida fines up to $10,000 per offense (F.S. 489.147). Texas: illegal under state law (TDI).
• A contractor who wants to meet the adjuster on your behalf without you present. The TDI says to be there yourself.
• Pressure to sign today. Colorado law gives 72 hours to rescind a roofing contract for this reason.