Tulsa Storm Damage Roof Inspection: What to Expect

In this guide 21 sections

1. Step 1: Schedule the Inspection
2. Step 2: Pre-Inspection Preparation
3. Step 3: Initial Walk-Around
4. Step 4: Ladder Setup and Rooftop Access
5. Step 5: Slope-by-Slope Roof Walk
6. Step 6: Test Square Documentation
7. Step 7: Detail Inspection
8. Step 8: Photo Documentation
9. Step 9: Interior Inspection (If Applicable)
10. Step 10: Discussion and Initial Findings
11. Step 11: Written Report
12. What the Inspector Will Not Do
13. How Long the Inspection Takes
14. Cost of Storm Damage Inspection
15. What to Expect After the Inspection
16. Free Inspection vs Adjuster Inspection
17. Inspection Quality Indicators
18. After the Storm Chasers
19. When to Schedule a Storm Damage Inspection
20. Frequently Asked Questions About Storm Inspections
21. The Bottom Line

Severe weather has just passed through Tulsa, and you suspect your roof may have been damaged. The natural next step is scheduling a storm damage inspection - but most homeowners have no idea what actually happens during one. Will someone climb on the roof? How long does it take? What will they find? What happens after?

Understanding the inspection process in advance eliminates the mystery and helps homeowners prepare effectively. Quality storm damage inspections follow a standardized methodology that produces reliable documentation - the foundation for successful insurance claims.

This guide walks through exactly what to expect during a Tulsa storm damage roof inspection, from the initial phone call to the final report. Whether you are filing your first claim or your tenth, knowing the process helps you participate effectively.

For context on the broader claim process, see our companion article on filing a hail damage roof claim in Tulsa.

Step 1: Schedule the Inspection

The inspection process begins with a phone call or online request. Most quality local contractors offer free post-storm inspections and can typically schedule within a few days of the request. Information you may need to provide:

• Your name and contact information
• Property address
• Date of the storm event you are concerned about
• Brief description of any visible damage
• Preferred inspection time

Contractors typically respond more quickly during heavy storm seasons but may have longer wait times after major events when many homeowners are scheduling simultaneously.

Step 2: Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before the inspector arrives, a few simple preparations help:

• Move vehicles out of the driveway to provide ladder access
• Secure pets
• Make attic access available if interior inspection may be needed
• Have your insurance policy information available if you plan to discuss claim potential
• Make any photos of visible damage available for review

No major preparation is required - the inspection is a brief visit that does not significantly disrupt normal household activities.

Step 3: Initial Walk-Around

When the inspector arrives, the inspection typically begins with a ground-level walk-around of the property. The inspector looks for:

• Visible damage to gutters, downspouts, and other rooftop metals
• Damage to siding, windows, and exterior trim
• Damage to vehicles, outdoor furniture, fences, and landscaping
• Storm debris on the property
• Granule accumulation in gutters and at downspout discharge points
• Overall storm impact indicators.

This walk-around takes 10-15 minutes and establishes context for the rooftop inspection.

Step 4: Ladder Setup and Rooftop Access

The inspector sets up appropriate ladders for rooftop access. Quality inspectors use:

• Extension ladders rated for the height and weight requirements
• Ladder stabilizers to prevent damage to gutters
• Proper anchoring against the eave
• Safety harnesses for steep roofs (typically 6:12 pitch and above)
• Time to set up safely: 5-10 minutes

The inspector then climbs onto the roof to begin the detailed assessment.

Step 5: Slope-by-Slope Roof Walk

The inspector systematically walks each roof slope, looking for damage indicators. The walk typically follows this pattern:

1. North slope - often less weathered; provides baseline for comparison.
2. East slope - moderate weathering.
3. South slope - heaviest weathering due to peak solar exposure; often shows worst storm damage.
4. West slope - significant weathering and afternoon heat exposure.

On each slope, the inspector documents:

• Number and density of hail strikes
• Granule loss patterns
• Visible bruising or mat fractures
• Damage to flashings and accessories
• Condition of ridge caps
• Any wind-related damage (lifted shingles, missing material)

Step 6: Test Square Documentation

Quality storm inspections use the "test square" methodology - selecting 10-foot by 10-foot sections on each major roof slope and counting hail strikes within each square. The strike density determines whether the slope qualifies for insurance replacement under most carrier guidelines.

Test squares are documented with:

• Photo of the test square area with measurement reference
• Count of hail strikes within the square
• Notes on damage type and severity
• Comparison with adjacent areas if relevant

Many carriers look for roughly 8 to 10 qualifying strikes per test square before approving a slope for replacement, though thresholds vary by carrier and policy. Slopes below the threshold may qualify for repair rather than replacement. Standards used by inspectors are typically based on training from organizations like Haag Engineering.

Step 7: Detail Inspection

Beyond the field shingles, the inspector examines specific roof features:

1. Chimney flashing - damage to step flashing, counter flashing, or chimney cricket.
2. Skylights - glazing damage, flashing condition.
3. Pipe boots - rubber gasket condition, particularly if damaged or aged.
4. Vent caps and stacks - impact damage to metal components.
5. Valleys - water flow patterns and any visible damage.
6. Drip edge and rake metal - dents or displacement.
7. Satellite dishes and other rooftop equipment if present

Each detail receives separate documentation with photos and notes.

Step 8: Photo Documentation

Throughout the inspection, the inspector takes extensive photos. A typical inspection produces 30-100+ photos covering:

1. Overview shots of each roof slope
2. Close-ups of specific damage examples
3. Test squares with strike counts
4. Detail damage at flashings, vents, and other features
5. Comparison shots showing damaged vs. undamaged areas
6. Identification photos of the property (address, house features)

These photos become the documentation that supports any subsequent insurance claim. Quality inspectors maintain organized photo libraries for each project.

Step 9: Interior Inspection (If Applicable)

If interior damage is suspected, the inspector also examines:

• Attic spaces - look for water staining, fresh leaks, or visible damage from below.
• Ceiling stains - documenting any visible water damage indoors.
• Walls - particularly upper sections of exterior walls near the roofline.
• Around windows - signs of water infiltration.

Indoor inspection is most relevant when active leaks or visible water damage have been reported. For most hail-driven claims, the exterior inspection covers the necessary documentation.

Step 10: Discussion and Initial Findings

After completing the inspection, the inspector typically discusses preliminary findings with the homeowner:

• Whether damage exists that warrants further action
• The type and extent of damage observed
• Whether the damage likely qualifies for insurance coverage
• Recommended next steps
• Time-sensitive considerations

This discussion typically happens at the property immediately after the inspection. Formal written reports may follow within a day or two.

Step 11: Written Report

Within 1-3 business days of the inspection, the inspector typically provides a written report including:

• Summary of findings
• Photo documentation organized by location and damage type
• Test square analysis
• Specific damage descriptions
• Recommended scope of work if applicable
• Any caveats or limitations of the inspection

Quality contractors provide this documentation in a format that can be shared with insurance carriers or other contractors for verification.

What the Inspector Will Not Do

Several things storm damage inspectors typically do not do:

1. They will not perform the work during the inspection. The inspection is fact-finding only.
2. They will not commit you to anything - inspections are typically no-obligation and do not require signing contracts.
3. They will not file insurance claims for you - that is your responsibility, though they can support the process.
4. They will not negotiate with insurance carriers during the inspection itself - that comes later.
5. They will not guarantee outcomes - the inspection provides documentation; insurance carriers make coverage decisions.
6. They will not authorize work that the insurance has not approved - quality contractors wait for proper authorization before beginning work.

How Long the Inspection Takes

Total inspection time typically:

• Standard residential property (1,500-3,000 sq ft) - 45-90 minutes total
• Larger or more complex homes - 90 minutes to 2 hours
• Initial ground walk-around: 10-15 minutes
• Ladder setup: 5-10 minutes
• Roof inspection: 30-60 minutes
• Interior inspection (if needed): 15-30 minutes
• Discussion and documentation: 15-30 minutes.

The actual time on the roof is shorter than total inspection time because of setup and documentation phases.

Cost of Storm Damage Inspection

Most quality local contractors offer free post-storm inspections for prospective customers. The economics:

• Free inspections - the inspector hopes the inspection leads to claim work. If damage exists, the contractor gets the opportunity to perform the work. If no damage exists, the homeowner has been served at no cost.
• Paid inspections - some inspectors charge $200-$500 for more detailed reports, particularly for non-claim purposes (pre-sale inspections, due diligence, etc.).

For post-storm damage assessment, the free inspection from a quality local contractor is the appropriate first step. Our companion article on roof inspection cost in Tulsa covers the inspection cost landscape.

What to Expect After the Inspection

Following the inspection, several scenarios are common:

1. No damage found - the inspector finds no claim-qualifying damage. The homeowner has documentation that the roof is in good condition. No further action needed.
2. Minor damage worth monitoring - some damage exists but not enough to qualify for full replacement. The homeowner may choose to file a partial claim or continue monitoring for future storms.
3. Significant damage warranting a claim - the inspector documents damage clearly above claim threshold. The homeowner can proceed to file an insurance claim with confidence.
4. Severe damage requiring immediate action - rare but possible. Active leaks or structural concerns may require emergency tarping or temporary repairs.

Quality inspectors discuss the specific findings and recommended next steps with the homeowner before leaving.

Free Inspection vs Adjuster Inspection

It is important to distinguish between contractor inspections and insurance adjuster inspections:

• Contractor inspection (free) - typically performed before filing a claim, helps determine whether claim is warranted, supports the homeowner.
• Adjuster inspection - performed by the insurance carrier after a claim is filed, determines coverage scope and pricing, supports the carrier's decision.
• Best practice is to have your contractor present at the adjuster inspection. The contractor can point out damage that might be missed and ensure the scope is comprehensive.

Inspection Quality Indicators

Quality storm damage inspections share several characteristics:

• Inspector uses proper safety equipment (ladder stabilizers, harness on steep roofs)
• Inspector takes extensive photos throughout the process
• Inspector uses test square methodology rather than vague visual assessment
• Inspector documents damage with specific counts and locations
• Inspector provides written report with photos
• Inspector discusses findings clearly with the homeowner
• Inspector does not pressure for immediate signing of contracts
• Inspector verifies and explains licensing and credentials when asked

Cut-rate or fraudulent operations skip these quality indicators. If your inspection feels rushed, lacks documentation, or pressures you to sign immediately, the inspection quality is suspect.

After the Storm Chasers

After major storm events, "storm chasers" descend on affected areas offering quick inspections and immediate contracts. Warning signs:

• Door-to-door solicitation
• Out-of-state license plates
• Pressure to sign immediate contracts before the adjuster has seen the roof
• Promises of "guaranteed insurance payment"
• Lack of physical office location locally
• No verifiable business history in the Tulsa metro

Quality storm damage inspections come from established local contractors who will be available for warranty service years later. Storm chasers move on as soon as the work is done. For criteria on selecting reliable contractors, see our companion article on choosing a roofing contractor in Jenks.

When to Schedule a Storm Damage Inspection

Schedule a storm damage inspection when:

• Hail of 1 inch or larger affected your area, regardless of visible damage
• Severe winds of 60 mph or higher passed through your neighborhood
• Any visible damage is present on the property (gutters, vents, vehicles, landscape)
• Neighbors are filing claims for damage from the same storm
• You have observed any indoor signs of water damage
• Your insurance carrier suggests inspection for any reason
• You are considering selling the property within a few years and want documentation

Better to schedule and find no damage than to skip the inspection and discover serious damage too late to file a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions About Storm Inspections

How long does a storm damage roof inspection take?

Usually 45 to 90 minutes for a typical home, longer for large or complex roofs.

Does a storm damage inspection cost anything?

Most established local roofers, RainTech included, inspect storm damage for free with no obligation.

Should I call my insurance company or a roofer first?

Either order works, but a contractor inspection first tells you whether there is enough damage to file. Then have the contractor at the adjuster's inspection so nothing gets missed. Our insurance claims page walks through the full process.

What is a test square?

A 10x10-foot area marked on each roof slope where the inspector counts hail hits. The count helps decide whether a slope needs replacement or repair.

The Bottom Line

Tulsa storm damage roof inspections follow a standardized 11-step process: scheduling, preparation, ground walk-around, ladder setup, slope-by-slope inspection, test square documentation, detail inspection, photo documentation, interior inspection if needed, findings discussion, and written report.

Quality inspections take 45-90 minutes total and produce comprehensive documentation that supports successful insurance claims when damage is found.

For homeowners in the Tulsa metro who have experienced storm conditions, the right next step is scheduling a free post-storm inspection within days of the event. RainTech performs free storm damage inspections across the Tulsa metro, including Midtown Tulsa, Owasso, Bixby, Broken Arrow, and Jenks. Reach out through our contact page.

Schedule Your Free Tulsa Roof Inspection →

Sources and disclaimer. Information in this article comes from public sources such as the National Weather Service, the Oklahoma Insurance Department, Oklahoma statutes and manufacturer documentation, plus RainTech’s own inspections and claims experience in the Tulsa area. It was current as of September 24, 2026; laws, insurance rules, manufacturer terms and prices change. This article is general information, not legal, insurance, tax or financial advice.