Advice from a Public Insurance Adjuster
Living in Florida, wind damage is a reality most homeowners will face at some point—whether from hurricanes, tropical storms, or sudden wind gusts. But unlike a flooded floor or a tree crashing through your roof, wind damage isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it hides in plain sight—and if you don’t catch it early, it can lead to serious issues (and costly repairs) down the road.
As a Public Insurance Adjuster, I often work with homeowners who didn’t realize the full extent of their wind damage—or worse, their insurance company denied or underpaid their claim. Here’s how to spot wind damage, what to look for, and why documenting it properly is so important.
1. Check the Roof—It’s the First to Go
Your roof takes the brunt of wind damage. After any major wind event, start by inspecting it. Look for:
- Missing shingles or tiles – especially around edges, ridges, and valleys
- Lifted or curled shingles – they may look intact, but wind can break the seal beneath
- Exposed underlayment or nails – a sign that shingles were torn away
- Damaged flashing – especially around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Granule loss – check your gutters and downspouts for loose granules
- Dents in the metal
Even a single missing or loose shingle can compromise your roof’s ability to keep water out.
Pro Tip: Don’t climb on the roof yourself—use binoculars or a drone, or call a licensed inspector.
2. Inspect the Exterior of Your Home
Wind can damage much more than just your roof. Walk around your home and look for:
- Cracks or fractures in siding or stucco
- Loose or missing fascia and soffit panels
- Damaged or detached gutters and downspouts
- Fallen fencing or detached panels
- Broken exterior light fixtures, shutters, or trim
These issues might seem cosmetic, but they can allow water intrusion and compromise the structure.
3. Look at Windows and Doors
Even if your windows didn’t break, they can still suffer wind damage:
- Broken or cracked glass
- Warped or bent frames
- Drafts or moisture forming between panes
- Difficulty opening or closing doors
Garage doors, in particular, are vulnerable to high winds. A warped or bowed garage door is a common indicator of wind damage.
4. Check Inside for Water Stains or Leaks
Wind-driven rain often enters through compromised areas, so look for signs inside the home:
- Ceiling or wall stains
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
- New musty smells (a sign of hidden moisture or mold)
- Wet or damaged attic insulation
Water stains in rooms below your attic are strong indicators your roof was damaged—especially if they appeared after a storm.
5. Document Everything
If you see any of the signs above, take clear, time-stamped photos and videos. Document each damaged area from multiple angles, and keep any storm reports or weather alerts from the day of the event. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be.
Don’t Rely Solely on the Insurance Adjuster
Here’s the hard truth: the insurance company’s adjuster works for them, not for you. It’s common for damage to be missed, minimized, or dismissed altogether. I’ve reviewed countless claims where the homeowner was told there was “no damage,” when there was plenty—just not the kind the insurer wanted to pay for.
That’s where a Public Insurance Adjuster comes in. We work on your behalf to:
✅ Thoroughly inspect your property
✅ Document hidden or overlooked damage
✅ Create a detailed repair estimate
✅ Negotiate directly with the insurance company for a fair settlement
When to Call a Public Adjuster
If your home was recently hit by high winds—even if the damage seems minor—it’s worth getting a second opinion. You may have a valid claim that your insurance company hasn’t properly evaluated or fully paid.
You should call a Public Adjuster if:
- You’re unsure whether your damage qualifies for a claim
- You’ve already filed a claim but think it was underpaid
- You were denied and need help disputing it
- You want someone on your side from the beginning
Final Thoughts: Catch Wind Damage Early, File It Right
Wind damage is sneaky—it doesn’t always look like disaster struck, but over time, even minor damage can lead to leaks, rot, mold, and major repair bills. Don’t wait until it gets worse. The sooner you document and address wind-related damage, the better chance you have of a smooth and successful claim.
Need Help with a Wind Damage Claim? Let’s Talk.
At David Kanter Public Insurance Adjuster, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners get the settlements they deserved—often after their insurance company said “no.” Let us inspect your damage, review your policy, and give you the honest answer your insurer won’t.
📞 Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.