Storm damage roof repairs · A focused guide
What should I report if a branch remains on the roof after a storm?
Published by Big Ben Roofing Ltd
Explain that the branch is still present, identify the affected roof area and keep clear of the space beneath or beside damaged material. Do not pull the branch, cut it from a ladder or climb onto the roof to see underneath. The contractor needs to understand the remaining obstruction before considering access or a repair. Appropriate tree and roofing specialists may need to coordinate their separate tasks, and a roof photograph alone cannot establish the concealed condition.
Describe the layout from a safe place
State whether the branch lies over the main roof, an extension or a glazed structure and whether an entrance or shared route is affected. Mention cables or other equipment nearby without approaching or touching them. Existing safe images can show the overall position. The Met Office advises caution around trees and buildings after storms; a desire to reveal the tile damage should not prompt occupiers to move remaining material.
Define the sequence of separate work
Ask who will assess the obstruction, who authorises work involving the tree and when the roof can be examined appropriately. Removal and roofing repair should have clear boundaries and relevant competent input. Once access is possible, request the actual roof findings rather than assuming the first visible broken piece represents the entire damage. Retain records of the sequence so later repair decisions use the condition revealed at each stage.
Useful details to record
- State that the branch remains rather than only describing impact.
- Identify roofs, entrances and equipment near the affected area.
- Keep clear and avoid trying to reveal concealed damage.
- Ask who coordinates the obstruction and roofing assessment stages.
Use information already available from indoors or ground level. Do not climb onto the roof or disturb materials to complete this checklist.
Should the roofer quote the full roof damage before the branch is removed?
The initial proposal may need to state what is visible and what remains concealed. Ask which assessment stage can establish the repair boundary, and avoid treating an early estimate with access limits as a complete diagnosis of the underlying roof.
Background reading
General guidance helps frame the questions. The cause, suitable materials and scope depend on inspection of the particular roof.
Related questions
What if slate or tile fragments are found in the garden after a storm?
Report fallen roofing fragments and their location without assuming the source, approaching unstable edges or taking a sample from the roof.
How should older roof wear be recorded alongside newly noticed storm damage?
Distinguish earlier roof concerns, new observations and uncertain causes so a repair proposal follows the evidence rather than an assumed event history.
Discuss what you have noticed
Include your postcode, the affected roof section and when the concern appears. The team will review the enquiry and confirm the next step, scope and availability.
Request a roofing assessment