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Quick, low-risk steps

  1. Stay on the ground—never climb onto a wet or damaged roof.
  2. Photograph each side of the house from a safe distance to show overall condition.
  3. Take close-ups of roof edges, gutters, downspouts, and any visible dents or cracks.
  4. Capture date-stamped photos before moving or cleaning up any debris.
  5. Record the storm date and check official NOAA records for your area.
  6. Save all photos in a dedicated folder and back them up.

What to Photograph from the Ground

Begin with wide shots of each exterior wall and the roof from a safe distance. These establish the overall condition of your home before any repairs. Then move closer to capture details that might show storm impact, such as dents on gutters, cracks in siding, or displaced shingles along the roof edge.

Pay special attention to areas where different materials meet, like chimneys, vents, and skylights. These are common leak points after a storm. Also photograph any debris that fell onto your property, as it can help link damage to a specific weather event.

  • Wide shots of all four sides of the house
  • Close-ups of roof edges and eaves
  • Gutters and downspouts, especially any dents or separation
  • Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
  • Debris on the ground that may have struck the roof

How to Organize Your Photos

Create a folder on your phone or computer named with the storm date and your address. As you take photos, rename them or add notes describing what each image shows. This makes it easier to share with your insurance adjuster or roofing contractor later.

Consider using a free app that adds a timestamp and GPS location to each photo. This metadata can support your claim by proving when and where the damage was documented. Always back up your photos to a cloud service or external drive.

  • Create a folder with storm date and property address
  • Rename photos or add descriptive notes
  • Use an app to add timestamps and GPS data
  • Back up photos to cloud storage or an external drive
  • Share organized files with your adjuster or contractor

Using Photos for Insurance Claims

Your photos are a key part of your claim documentation. They show the condition of your property right after the storm, before any temporary repairs or cleanup. Provide them to your insurance company when you file your claim, and keep copies for your own records.

Remember that ground-level photos have limits. They cannot show the full extent of roof damage, especially hail hits on the roof surface. An adjuster or roofing professional will need to inspect the roof directly. Your photos support their findings but do not replace a professional assessment.

  • Submit photos with your initial claim filing
  • Keep copies for your own records
  • Understand that ground photos cannot show all roof damage
  • Use photos to support, not replace, a professional inspection
  • Check your policy for specific documentation requirements

Limitations of This Checklist

This checklist is a starting point for homeowners. It does not cover every possible type of storm damage, and it cannot diagnose structural issues. Always prioritize safety and consult qualified professionals for a thorough evaluation.

Local building codes and insurance policies vary. What works for one property may not apply to another. Use this tool to gather evidence, but rely on licensed contractors and your insurance company for final decisions about repairs and coverage.

  • Not a substitute for a professional roof inspection
  • Cannot identify hidden damage or structural issues
  • Local codes and policies may have specific requirements
  • Always follow safety guidelines and avoid hazards
  • Consult professionals before making repair decisions

Private worksheet

Ground-Level Roof and Exterior Photo Checklist: private worksheet

Check items as you confirm them. Your selections and notes stay in this browser and are not submitted to us. This worksheet does not diagnose the problem or replace an on-site professional.

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Items to confirm

Common questions

What homeowners ask next

Can I use a drone to photograph my roof?

Drone photography can capture roof details without climbing, but you must follow FAA regulations and local laws. If you are not experienced, consider hiring a licensed drone operator. Never fly a drone near power lines or in bad weather.

What if I see damage but can't get a clear photo from the ground?

Note the location and describe what you see in writing. A professional roofer can take close-up photos during an inspection. Your notes and any distant photos still provide useful context for your claim.

Should I clean up debris before taking photos?

No. Document the scene as it is immediately after the storm. Take photos of debris before moving anything, as it may be evidence of impact. Only clean up when it is safe to do so and after you have thorough documentation.

Evidence

Sources used for this guide

Research checked July 31, 2026

Optional next step

Need an on-site professional?

Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.

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We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.