After-Storm Property Inspection Checklist

Safety first: Do not inspect your roof or enter a damaged structure until emergency services confirm it is safe. FindTheTornado does not perform inspections, repairs, or insurance work.

Use this checklist after a tornado or severe hail event to document potential damage before contacting your insurance company or a licensed contractor.

Immediate Safety (Before Inspecting)

Confirm the severe weather has passed and NWS has lifted all active warnings for your area.
Check for gas odors — if present, leave immediately and call your gas utility.
Look for downed power lines around your property. Do not approach them.
Walk the exterior perimeter before entering — look for structural leaning, foundation shifts, or broken supports.
If the home has visible structural damage, do not enter until cleared by a structural engineer or building inspector.

Exterior Inspection

Roof: Look from the ground for missing or lifted shingles, dents in ridge caps or vents.
Gutters and downspouts: Check for dents, separation from fascia, or hail spatter marks.
Siding: Examine for cracks, holes, dimples, or chipped paint on vinyl/aluminum siding.
Windows: Inspect all glass panes and window screens for cracks or holes.
Skylights: Check for cracked or broken glass.
HVAC condenser unit: Look for bent fins, dents, or debris lodged inside.
Garage doors: Check for dents and test if the door still operates.
Fascia and trim: Look for paint chips, cracks, or spatter marks.
Fence, deck, patio: Note any structural damage, broken boards, or bent metal.

Vehicle Inspection

Hood and roof: Check for dimples or dents under natural light at a low angle.
Trunk lid: Often the most damaged panel — inspect carefully.
Windshield and windows: Look for chips, cracks, or spiderweb patterns.
Side mirrors and trim: Check for cracks or paint chips.
Antenna and sunroof: Look for dents or damage to seals.

Documentation for Insurance

Photograph all damage before any cleanup or repairs.
Note the date and time of the storm event (check SPC or NWS reports for confirmation).
Keep any hail stones you find in a bag in the freezer — a licensed inspector may want to measure them.
Document damage to personal property inside (broken items, water intrusion).
Contact your insurance company to file a claim before arranging permanent repairs.
Obtain at least two licensed contractor estimates.
Do not sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) form without reading it carefully and consulting your insurance adjuster first.