What to check after high winds in Arundel
High winds can loosen tiles, lift flashing and drive rain into places it does not belong. After a blowy night in Arundel it is wise to carry out a careful check of your roof and surrounding areas. Safety comes first. If in doubt, leave it to a professional.
Start with safety
Do not climb on the roof or use ladders in wet or windy conditions. Keep clear of any fallen power lines and avoid walking on surfaces that may be slippery. If water is near light fittings or the consumer unit, turn off the power at the mains and call an electrician.
Exterior checks from the ground
Walk around your property and look up from a safe distance. Use binoculars if you have them. Look for:
- Missing, cracked or slipped tiles and slates
- Lifted or missing ridge tiles and hip tiles
- Damaged or lifted flashing around chimneys, skylights and valleys
- Loose chimney pots, leaning stacks or displaced cowls
- Sagging or detached guttering and downpipes
- Debris on the ground such as tiles or mortar
Pay attention to older properties common in Arundel where clay tiles and natural slate are frequent. Historic roofs can be more vulnerable to wind-driven uplift if fixings are aged.
Inside the home and loft
Check ceilings and upper walls for new stains, blistering paint or damp patches. In the loft look for daylight through the roof covering, damp insulation, water trails on rafters and musty smells. If you see wet areas, place a bucket underneath to catch drips and move belongings out of harm’s way.
Flat roofs and outbuildings
On garages, extensions and garden offices, look for blisters, splits and areas where the felt or membrane has lifted. Note any ponding that was not present before. Inspect conservatory roofs for displaced caps, cracked panels and leaking seals.
How to document issues for insurers
Insurers will want clear evidence that the damage was caused by the storm, not wear and tear. Good documentation helps your claim run smoothly.
Take clear photos and video
- Capture wide shots that show the whole elevation, then close-ups of each issue
- Photograph any debris on the ground and where it fell from if known
- Include a simple scale reference such as a coin or tape measure in close-ups
- Record short videos that show movement, for example a flapping flashing or rattling gutter
Most smartphones time-stamp images automatically. Do not climb onto the roof for a better angle. Leave that to a qualified roofer with the right equipment.
Keep notes and evidence
- Write down the date and time of the storm and when you noticed the damage
- If possible, note local wind speeds from the Met Office
- Keep receipts for emergency make-safe work, tarpaulins and dehumidifiers
- Do not discard damaged materials unless told to by your insurer and it is safe to store them
Contact your insurer and get a report
Call your insurer as soon as you can and follow their instructions. You are usually required to prevent further damage, so temporary coverings are acceptable while you wait for approval. Ask a reputable local contractor to provide a written report with photos and a detailed quote. A professional assessment helps distinguish storm damage from pre-existing issues.
When to call a professional roofer in Arundel
If you see missing tiles, significant leaks or anything that looks unsafe, contact a trusted local specialist. Our team knows how winds funnel along the Arun valley and the types of roofing found around the town centre and nearby villages. We offer make-safe visits, full inspections and insurer-ready reports. For prompt help and friendly advice see Roofing Arundel.
Simple steps to reduce future storm damage
- Book regular roof inspections to spot loose tiles, tired fixings and failing mortar
- Clear gutters and downpipes so water can flow freely
- Trim back overhanging branches that could strike the roof
- Secure aerials and satellite dishes with sound brackets
- Check flat roofs for ageing seams and renew coverings before they fail
- Ensure loft ventilation is adequate to reduce moisture and protect timbers
High winds will always test a roof, but careful checks and good documentation make a big difference. If you need support after a storm or would like a preventative survey, contact Roofing Arundel and we will be glad to help.