SonShine Roofing Logo

Pre-Storm Roof Inspection: How to Protect Yourself Before the Next Hurricane

June 23, 20253 min read
EducationRoof InspectionStorms
Copied!
pre-storm roof inspection how to protect your wallet sarasota florida roofing contractor

“The Insurance Company Says It Was Already Damaged” — How to Protect Yourself Before the Next Hurricane Hits with a Pre-Storm Roof Inspection

Every year, Florida homeowners watch the weather reports with a familiar mix of dread and preparation. After last year’s season, many Florida homeowners learned a lesson the hard way:

Your insurance company may not pay for hurricane roof damage if they can argue that your roof was already compromised before the storm. 

And believe us — they’re very good at making that argument. This is why you need a pre-storm roof inspection.

Take the first step

Schedule a fast, no-pressure visit. Since 1987 we’ve got you covered.

Get started

“Pre-existing damage”: The insurance company’s favorite excuse

We see it every year, especially here along the Gulf Coast. A major storm barrels through, and afterward, homeowners call us with stories like this:

“We had missing shingles and a leak after the storm. I filed a claim, and the adjuster came out. Now they’re saying the damage was already there. They denied the whole claim!”

Sadly, this is one of the most common denial tactics used by insurers after hurricanes. Why? Because, legally, as long as they can cast reasonable doubt that the roof was already “compromised” before the storm, they can minimize or outright deny your claim.

How can you prevent this?

Have documented proof of your roof’s condition before the storm. And that’s where we come in.

Why a pre-storm roof inspection is your best leverage

Here’s the thing: if you can show clear documentation on your roof’s condition before the storm hits, the insurance company has a much harder time denying your claim. It puts them on notice, and gives you peace of mind.

And let’s be clear here: this isn’t about “gaming the system.” It’s about protecting what’s fair. If your roof is in good shape before the storm, you deserve to have damage caused by the storm to be covered. Additionally, if your roof has minor issues now, you deserve a chance to fix them proactively — not have them used against you later.

Common homeowner questions

“What if my roof does have issues now?”

No problem! That’s what the inspection is for — we can help you proactively repair minor issues now, so they won’t be used against you later.

“Is this only for older roofs?”

No — even new roofs should be routinely inspected in the state of Florida. Insurers will look for any reason to minimize or outright deny a claim, and you should be prepared for any situation.

“Won’t my insurance company know if I get an inspection?”

Yes – and that’s a good thing. It shows you are responsible and maintain your roof. Insurers respect that, and it strengthens your case. You want them to know,

The bottom line: Don’t leave yourself exposed

You can’t control when the next hurricane will hit, but you can take proactive measures to protect your investment. A SonShine Roofing Pre-Storm Inspection is one of the smartest moves you can make. It’s affordable. It’s fast. And it could potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Insurance companies aren’t the villains — but they are businesses. They rely on policyholders not knowing their rights or responsibilities. That’s why preparation is your greatest tool. In fact, the Florida Department of Financial Services recommends routine roof inspections to stay ahead of costly storm damage. This small step not only safeguards your home but can also strengthen your claim in court if it ever comes to that. When you schedule your inspection with SonShine Roofing, we document anything and everything, giving you confidence, leverage, and peace of mind.

Schedule Your Pre-Storm Inspection Today,
Save Thousands Tomorrow.

📞 (941) 866-4320

🌐 Contact Us

✉️ messages@next.next.sonshineroofing.com

 

Learn More

Why Regular Roof Inspections in Sarasota, FL Are Critical for Longevity & Insurance Savings

Oct 27, 2025

Homeownership in Sarasota is a privilege that comes with its own set of challenges—especially when it comes to protecting your roof from Florida’s unforgiving sun, storms, and insurance scrutiny. After serving Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties for…

EducationFeaturedResources
Read full article

How Smart Roofing Technology Is Transforming Home Protection in Sarasota

Oct 21, 2025

If you live in Sarasota, you know your roof isn’t just an architectural feature—it’s your frontline shield against tropical storms, hurricane winds, relentless sun, and drenching rain. At SonShine Roofing, with over 38 years of hands-on experience in…

EducationFeaturedResources
Read full article

How Smart Roofing Technology Is Transforming Home Maintenance in Sarasota

Oct 21, 2025

The landscape of home maintenance is changing rapidly in Sarasota, and roofing is right at the heart of this transformation. As a team with deep local roots and 38+ years protecting homes across Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte Counties, we’ve seen firsthand…

EducationFeaturedResources
Read full article

The Return on Investment of a Tile Roof in Southwest Florida

The ROI of a Tile Roof Featured Image
Sep 15, 2025

A roof is an investment, not a line item. In Southwest Florida—Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties—concrete tile earns its keep through longevity, storm performance, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. The upfront cost can be higher than asphalt, but…

EducationFeaturedResources
Read full article

General FAQs

Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?

Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out. 

How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

  • Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting. 
  • Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling. 
  • Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials. 
  • Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices. 
  • Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here. 

What causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal. 

  • Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water. 
  • Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.  
  • Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.  
  • Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
  • Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

  • Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. 
  • Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. 
  • Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. 
  • Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. 
  • Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. 
  • Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care. 

What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?

There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.  

Do you employ subcontractors?

No, we do not employ subcontractors. All of the crews we employ are W-2 employees and on our payroll.

Are you licensed and insured in the State of Florida?

Yes, we are licensed by the State of Florida, which you can verify here. We also carry comprehensive liability insurance.

Return to Top