Should I contact my insurer before permanent storm repairs?

The short answer

Generally yes, before permanent work. Most policies expect to be notified and may want to assess the damage first. Emergency measures to prevent further damage are normally treated differently, but keep the evidence and the receipts. Your policy wording, not a roofer, sets the requirement.

What this evidence cannot tell you

Requirements differ between policies. Check your own wording rather than relying on what is usual.

What should you be shown before agreeing to the work?

Photographs of the damage before any work
A written description of the emergency measures taken and why
Receipts for temporary work
The proposed permanent repair with its scope
The date the damage was first noticed

Not every job needs every item. The point is that whatever is recommended should be supported by evidence you can see and a scope you can read.

Related services

Emergency Roof RepairsAn emergency roof repair makes a property safe and watertight quickly after storm damage, a sudden leak or falling slates. The first visit stops water entering and removes any danger to people below; the permanent repair follows once the roof is safe to work on.

What should you do next?

Notify your insurer, take the emergency measures needed to prevent further damage, and hold off on permanent repairs until you know what they require.

Reviewed by Aaron, Owner, Elite Roofing Services Cumbria Ltd — last reviewed 17 September 2026.

More in Storm & Emergency Roofing

Elite Roofing Services Cumbria carries out this work across Carlisle, wider Cumbria and the Scottish Borders — see the areas covered.

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