What to Check Around Your Home After a Storm

A simple post-storm walkthrough can help you spot small issues before they become bigger repairs.

Severe weather can move through quickly, but the effects on your home are not always immediately obvious. After heavy rain, strong winds, or a major storm, take a few minutes to walk through your home and around your property. Catching a small issue early may help prevent additional damage later.

1. Look for Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls

​One of the first signs of a roof or exterior leak may be discoloration inside your home. Pay extra attention to rooms directly below the roof and areas near windows, chimneys, or exterior walls.

• New water stains
• Yellow or brown discoloration
• Bubbling or peeling paint
• Damp drywall or soft spots

2. Check Around Windows and Doors

Heavy rain and wind can expose weak spots around windows and exterior doors. Look along window sills, frames, and doorways for moisture, water marks, swelling, or damaged seals.

3. Inspect Your Roof From the Ground

​You do not need to climb onto your roof to do a basic post-storm inspection. From a safe location, look for:

• Missing shingles
• Lifted or curled shingles
• Visible debris
• Damaged flashing
• Tree limbs resting on the roof

4. Check Your Gutters and Downspouts

​Make sure gutters are not clogged with leaves, branches, or other debris. Check that downspouts are still connected and directing water away from the foundation.

5. Look for Standing Water Near the Foundation

Walk around the outside of your home and look for areas where water is pooling. Standing water close to the foundation may point to drainage problems, clogged gutters, or soil erosion.

• New cracks
• Washed-out landscaping
• Areas where soil has shifted

6. Take a Look in the Attic

Some roof leaks are easier to spot from inside the attic. If it is safe and accessible, check for:

• Damp insulation
• Wet wood
• Water stains
• Moisture around roof penetrations
• Signs of dripping

7. Check the Garage

Inspect the ceiling, walls, and areas around the garage door for leaks or moisture. Also check items stored along exterior walls, especially anything sitting directly on the floor.

8. Inspect Your HVAC Unit and Exterior Equipment

Look around your outdoor HVAC unit for branches, leaves, or storm debris. Make sure nothing appears damaged or is blocking airflow around the unit.

9. Check Trees, Fences, and Other Structures

Storm damage is not limited to the house itself. Walk your property and look for loose limbs, leaning trees, damaged fencing, sheds, gates, or patio covers that may need attention.

What Should You Do If You Find Damage?

If you notice damage after a storm, take photos and videos before cleaning up or making permanent repairs whenever possible. Documenting the condition of the property may be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim.

Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. For example, you may need to place a container under an active leak or arrange for temporary protection over a damaged area. Avoid unsafe repairs and do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof.

A Quick Check Can Make a Big Difference

Not all storm damage is dramatic or immediately visible. A small stain, loose shingle, clogged gutter, or damp area may be easy to overlook, but identifying these issues early may help prevent additional damage to your home.

After severe weather, a short walkthrough can provide valuable peace of mind. If you have questions about your homeowners coverage or want to better understand how your policy may respond to storm-related damage, the team at Corin Insurance is here to help.

​Corin Insurance
Practical coverage guidance for the people and homes that matter most.