Tropical Storm Roof Preparation: Florida Homeowner Checklist (2026)

Why Roof Preparation Matters in Pinellas County

Pinellas County sits on a narrow peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. When a tropical storm or hurricane tracks through the eastern Gulf, we are directly in the crosshairs. Unlike inland communities that benefit from friction and terrain that weakens storms, Pinellas County gets the full force of over-water winds with no buffer between the Gulf and our barrier islands, coastal communities, and mainland neighborhoods.

The 2024 hurricane season reminded everyone in the Tampa Bay area just how real the threat is. Hurricane Milton crossed directly over central Florida, and the combination of Milton and Hurricane Helene just weeks apart caused billions in damage across the region. Homes in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Treasure Island, Gulfport, and throughout Pinellas County sustained roof damage ranging from missing shingles to complete structural failure.

The homes that fared the best had one thing in common: their owners had prepared their roofs before the storms hit. Preparation done in March costs the same as preparation done in May, but in March you have time and contractor availability on your side. By June, the clock is ticking. By the time a storm enters the Gulf, it is too late for anything other than emergency measures.

Pre-Hurricane Season Roof Preparation (January through May)

This is when the real preparation happens. Every task on this list should be completed before June 1, the official start of Atlantic hurricane season.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

The single most important step you can take is having your roof professionally inspected before hurricane season. A qualified Pinellas County roofing contractor will evaluate:

• Overall condition of roofing materials (shingles, tiles, metal panels, flat roof membrane)
• Flashing condition around all penetrations (vents, pipes, chimneys, skylights)
• Roof-to-wall connections (hurricane straps or clips) visible from the attic
• Roof deck condition (signs of rot, delamination, or fastener withdrawal)
• Ridge cap and hip cap condition
• Valley condition and drainage
• Gutter and downspout attachment and condition
• Soffit and fascia integrity
• Any signs of existing leaks or water damage in the attic

Schedule this inspection in March or April. Waiting until May means competing with thousands of other homeowners for limited contractor time. Our roof inspection guide covers what to expect during a professional inspection and what to look for yourself between professional visits.

Address Any Repairs Immediately

If the inspection reveals issues, fix them immediately. Do not wait until the fall or next year. Common pre-season repairs include:

• Replacing cracked, broken, or missing shingles or tiles
• Re-sealing or replacing worn flashing
• Re-nailing lifted shingle tabs
• Repairing damaged soffit panels (these are a common wind entry point)
• Replacing deteriorated pipe boots and vent flashing
• Repairing or replacing damaged ridge cap
• Addressing any wood rot in the fascia, decking, or framing

Small repairs that cost a few hundred dollars now can prevent thousands in storm damage later. A loose shingle that would survive a normal thunderstorm becomes a projectile in a tropical storm, and the exposed area beneath it becomes a water entry point under wind-driven rain.

Clean and Secure Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters are more than an inconvenience during a tropical storm. When gutters overflow, water backs up under the roof edge (called ice damming in cold climates, but the same hydraulic principle applies during heavy Florida rains). This water can penetrate under shingles, into the roof deck, and into your home.

• Remove all leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts
• Check that all gutter hangers and brackets are secure and not pulling away from the fascia
• Verify that downspouts are connected and directing water away from the foundation
• Consider gutter guards if you have not already installed them (they reduce post-storm cleanup significantly)
• Check splash blocks or drain extensions at the base of each downspout

Trim Trees and Remove Overhanging Branches

This is one of the most effective storm preparation steps, and it protects both your roof and your neighbors. In Pinellas County, we have large mature oak trees, laurel oaks, palm trees, and pines that can cause devastating damage during high winds.

• Remove any branches that overhang your roof or are within 6 feet of the roof surface
• Remove dead or weakened branches from all trees on your property, even those not directly over the roof (wind can carry large branches significant distances)
• Consider removing dead trees entirely, especially laurel oaks, which are notorious for shallow root systems and toppling in storms
• Trim palm fronds, but do not over-prune palms (they need a full canopy to withstand wind; over-pruned palms are actually more vulnerable)
• Clear any dead vegetation that could become airborne debris

Contact a certified arborist in the Pinellas County area for large tree work. This is not a DIY project for tall trees or trees near power lines. Many arborists get booked solid by May, so schedule early.

Verify Your Roof-to-Wall Connections

If you have access to your attic, visually inspect the hurricane straps or clips at the points where your roof trusses meet the wall top plate. Look for:

• Straps or clips at every truss (not just some)
• All nail holes in the connectors filled with proper nails
• No visible rust, corrosion, or deformation of the connectors
• Connectors tight against the wood with no gaps
• No cracked or split wood where the connectors are attached

If your home was built before 2002, or if you see toe-nailed connections (nails driven at an angle with no metal hardware), consider retrofitting hurricane straps before the storm season. This is one of the best return-on-investment improvements you can make for storm protection and insurance savings. Learn more about your options in our guide to roof wind ratings.

Check and Reinforce Gable End Walls

If your home has a gable roof (the most common type in Pinellas County), the triangular gable end walls are one of the most vulnerable points during a hurricane. These flat walls act like a sail, catching wind and potentially collapsing inward, which can cause the entire roof to fail.

Gable end bracing kits are available for retrofit and cost $200 to $600 per gable end, installed. These diagonal braces reinforce the gable wall from inside the attic. If your gable ends are not braced, this should be a high priority item before storm season.

Secure Rooftop Equipment and Accessories

Walk your property and identify anything on or near your roof that could become a problem in high winds:

• Satellite dishes: verify all mounting bolts are tight and the mast is properly braced
• Solar panels: check that mounting hardware is secure and panels are not loose
• Attic ventilators and turbine vents: make sure they are fastened and spinning freely
• Antenna masts: secure with guy wires or remove if no longer in use
• Roof-mounted HVAC equipment: verify that the equipment pad and hurricane tie-downs are intact
• Ridge vent covers: confirm these are properly fastened along the entire ridge

When a Storm Watch or Warning Is Issued (24 to 72 Hours Out)

When the National Hurricane Center issues a tropical storm or hurricane watch for the Tampa Bay area, it means conditions are possible within 48 hours. A warning means conditions are expected within 36 hours. At this point, your major preparation should already be done. These are the final steps.

Last-Minute Roof Checklist

What NOT to Do Before a Storm

Some well-intentioned preparation steps can actually make things worse or put you in danger:

• Do not get on your roof once a watch is issued. Wind gusts can arrive well before the main storm, and wet roofs are extremely slippery. Any inspection or repair at this point should be done from the ground or from inside the attic.
• Do not attempt to tarp your roof before the storm. Tarps are for after the storm. A tarp installed before the storm will be ripped off by the wind and could damage your roof further or become a dangerous projectile.
• Do not open windows or doors to "equalize pressure." This is a myth. Opening windows allows wind-driven rain into your home and can actually increase the likelihood of roof failure by pressurizing the interior.
• Do not attempt major tree cutting once the storm is approaching.Fallen trees during emergency cutting cause injuries and fatalities every hurricane season. If you did not trim before the watch was issued, it is too late.

Emergency Supplies for Roof Damage

In addition to your standard hurricane emergency kit (water, food, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid), every Pinellas County homeowner should have supplies specifically for addressing roof damage after a storm:

Purchase these supplies at the start of hurricane season (June 1) or earlier. Once a storm is approaching, stores sell out of tarps and plywood within hours. Keeping these on hand year-round means you are never caught without them.

During the Storm: Protecting Your Home from the Inside

Once the storm hits, stay inside and away from windows. There is nothing you can safely do on or near the roof during a tropical storm or hurricane. However, there are steps you can take inside to minimize damage if the roof is breached:

• Monitor the attic if safe to do so: If you hear cracking, banging, or see water appearing on ceilings, note the time and location. This documentation helps with insurance claims later.
• Place buckets under any leaks: If water starts coming through the ceiling, contain it immediately to prevent damage to floors, furniture, and electronics.
• Move valuables away from exterior walls and top-floor rooms: If the roof is compromised, water will follow gravity and exterior walls first.
• Keep interior doors closed: If a window or the roof fails in one area, closed doors help contain the pressurization to that section of the home.
• Stay in an interior room on the lowest floor: This is both the safest location during the storm and the area least likely to sustain water damage from a roof breach.

Post-Storm Roof Inspection and Assessment

After the storm passes and conditions are safe (no downed power lines, no ongoing flooding, no further weather threats), it is time to assess your roof. Follow this process carefully.

Step 1: Ground-Level Visual Inspection

Before anyone gets on the roof, do a complete walk-around from the ground. Use binoculars if you have them. Look for:

• Missing shingles, tiles, or metal panels
• Shingles that are lifted, curled, or clearly displaced
• Debris impacts (branches, other objects embedded in or resting on the roof)
• Damaged or missing ridge cap
• Bent, displaced, or missing flashing
• Damaged or detached gutters and downspouts
• Damage to soffit panels (often the first thing to fail in high winds)
• Visible sagging in the roof line (indicates potential structural damage)
• Damage to any rooftop equipment (vents, satellite dishes, solar panels)

Step 2: Interior and Attic Inspection

Check every room for signs of water intrusion:

• Water stains on ceilings (new stains that were not there before the storm)
• Wet walls, especially on upper floors near the roofline
• Dripping water or active leaks
• Musty smell indicating hidden moisture
• Bulging or sagging drywall (indicates trapped water above)

If it is safe to enter the attic (no standing water, no structural damage visible):

• Look for daylight showing through the roof deck (indicates missing shingles or deck damage)
• Check for wet insulation
• Look for water stains on the underside of the roof deck
• Inspect hurricane straps for any signs of pulling, stretching, or detachment
• Check the ridge board and rafters/trusses for cracks or splits

Step 3: Document Everything Before Touching Anything

This step is critical for your insurance claim. Before you make any repairs, even temporary ones, document all damage thoroughly:

• Photograph every area of damage from multiple angles
• Take wide shots that show the damage in context (the whole roof side, not just a close-up)
• Take close-up shots of specific damage points
• Video walk-throughs of interior damage showing the path of water intrusion
• Date and time-stamp all documentation (most smartphone cameras do this automatically)
• Write notes describing what you see, including weather conditions during the storm
• If safe, document from the roof level as well, but do not attempt this alone

Our guide on hurricane roof damage assessment goes deeper into identifying specific types of storm damage and distinguishing wind damage from pre-existing wear.

Step 4: Make Emergency Temporary Repairs

After documenting the damage, make temporary repairs to prevent further water intrusion. Florida insurance law requires homeowners to take reasonable steps to mitigate additional damage. Failure to do so can reduce your claim payout. Emergency measures include:

• Tarping exposed areas: Spread tarps over damaged sections and secure with 2x4 battens nailed through the tarp into the roof deck (not just the shingles). Extend the tarp well beyond the damaged area on all sides.
• Sealing small penetrations: Use roofing cement to seal small holes, cracks, or gaps where flashing was displaced.
• Containing interior water: Set up buckets, towels, and dehumidifiers to prevent water from spreading through the home and causing secondary damage like mold.

Keep receipts for all emergency supplies and repairs. These costs are typically reimbursable under your insurance policy as part of the claim.

Insurance Documentation and the Claims Process

How you handle the insurance claim process after a tropical storm can mean the difference between a full recovery and a significant out-of-pocket expense. In Pinellas County, insurance claims after storms are common, and the companies have established processes that favor thorough documentation.

Before the Storm: Insurance Preparation

• Review your policy: Know your hurricane deductible (typically 2% to 5% of dwelling coverage), coverage limits, and any exclusions before storm season
• Document your roof condition: Photograph the entire roof before any storm. These "before" photos are invaluable when proving storm damage vs. pre-existing conditions
• Keep records accessible: Store your policy number, agent contact information, and company claims number in your phone and in the cloud. Paper copies can be destroyed in a flood.
• Understand your wind mitigation credits: Your Florida roof insurance policy should reflect any wind mitigation features you have. If not, get a wind mitigation inspection before storm season.

After the Storm: Filing the Claim

1. Report the claim as soon as possible. Most Florida insurance companies allow claims to be filed online, by phone, or through their mobile app. Do not wait for a complete damage assessment. File the claim based on your initial observations and update it as you learn more.
2. Request an inspection from the insurance company. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage. In the weeks after a major storm, adjusters are overwhelmed, so the sooner you file, the sooner you get in the queue.
3. Get your own professional inspection. Do not rely solely on the insurance company adjuster. Hire a licensed Pinellas County roofing contractor to do their own assessment. Having competing estimates helps ensure you get a fair settlement.
4. Be present during the adjuster visit. Walk the property with the adjuster and point out all damage. Show them your pre-storm photos for comparison. Make sure they document everything, including damage they might not notice from the ground.
5. Keep a written log of all communications. Record the date, time, and content of every phone call, email, or visit with the insurance company. Note the name and adjuster number of everyone you speak with.

Understanding Your Hurricane Deductible

Florida hurricane deductibles work differently from your standard homeowners deductible. Instead of a flat dollar amount, hurricane deductibles are typically a percentage of your dwelling coverage:

• 2% deductible on $300,000 coverage: You pay the first $6,000
• 5% deductible on $300,000 coverage: You pay the first $15,000
• 10% deductible on $300,000 coverage: You pay the first $30,000

The hurricane deductible only applies once per hurricane season and is triggered when the National Weather Service declares a hurricane. Tropical storm damage (without a hurricane declaration) may fall under your standard deductible, which is usually much lower. Check your specific policy for the triggering language.

Given these high deductibles, many Pinellas County homeowners find that investing in storm-resistant roofing features (better shingles, hurricane straps, secondary water barrier) reduces both their premium and their likelihood of reaching the deductible threshold. Understanding the Florida Building Code roof requirements helps you make informed decisions about these upgrades.

Post-Storm Contractor Selection: Avoiding Storm Chasers

After every tropical storm or hurricane, Pinellas County is flooded with out-of-state roofing companies looking for quick business. These storm chasers knock on doors, canvas neighborhoods, and offer too-good-to-be-true deals. Here is how to protect yourself.

Red Flags of Storm Chaser Contractors

• They knock on your door unsolicited within days of the storm
• They have out-of-state license plates and no local office
• They offer to "waive your deductible" (this is insurance fraud in Florida)
• They pressure you to sign a contract immediately
• They ask for full payment or a large deposit upfront
• They want to handle your insurance claim for you through an assignment of benefits (AOB)
• They cannot provide a Florida contractor license number that verifies on myfloridalicense.com
• They do not have a Pinellas County physical address

How to Choose a Legitimate Post-Storm Contractor

• Use a contractor you already have a relationship with, or get referrals from neighbors, friends, or your insurance agent
• Verify their Florida license through the DBPR at myfloridalicense.com
• Confirm they have adequate insurance (general liability and workers comp)
• Check their history with the BBB serving West Florida
• Get at least three written estimates from different licensed contractors
• Read the contract carefully before signing. Understand the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms.
• Never pay more than 10% upfront or the cost of special-order materials (whichever is less), as limited by Florida law for certain contract types

For more on evaluating contractors and understanding your roofing options, start with our main roofing guide.

Seasonal Roof Maintenance Calendar for Pinellas County

Storm preparation is not a one-time event. Maintaining your roof year-round keeps it in the best possible condition to handle whatever the Atlantic hurricane season throws at us. Here is a seasonal schedule:

Special Considerations for Pinellas County Barrier Islands

Homeowners on Pinellas County barrier islands (Clearwater Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores, Redington Shores, Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, and Pass-a-Grille) face additional challenges:

• Higher wind speeds: Barrier islands experience the full force of over-water winds with no reduction from land friction. Design wind speeds are typically 10 to 15 mph higher than mainland locations.
• Salt air corrosion: Salt spray accelerates corrosion of metal components including hurricane straps, flashing, nails, and metal roofing panels. Use stainless steel or specially coated connectors.
• Evacuation requirements: Barrier islands are typically Zone A evacuation zones, meaning you must evacuate early in a hurricane. Your roof preparation must be completed before the evacuation order is issued because you will not be allowed back until the all-clear is given.
• Flood interaction: Storm surge flooding can undermine foundations and compromise the continuous load path even if the roof-to-wall connections are perfect. Barrier island homes should have both wind and flood mitigation measures.
• Stricter building codes: Some barrier island municipalities have adopted local amendments to the Florida Building Code that impose stricter requirements for coastal construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare my roof for a tropical storm in Florida?

Start early, ideally in March or April. Get a professional inspection, address all repairs, clean gutters, trim trees, verify hurricane straps, and document your roof condition with photos. Stock emergency tarping supplies and review your insurance policy. The key is completing major preparation well before a storm is in the forecast.

What should I do to my roof after a tropical storm passes?

Wait until conditions are safe, then inspect from the ground using binoculars. Check the attic for water intrusion. Document all damage with photos and video before making any repairs. Make emergency temporary repairs (tarping, sealing) to prevent further damage. Contact your insurance company promptly and schedule a professional inspection.

When should I get my roof inspected before hurricane season in Florida?

Schedule your inspection in March or April. This gives you 2 to 3 months to address any repairs before the June 1 start of hurricane season. Waiting until May or June means competing with every other homeowner for roofing contractor availability, and you may not be able to get repairs completed before the first storm.

Does my homeowners insurance cover tropical storm roof damage in Florida?

Most Florida policies cover wind damage, but with a separate hurricane deductible (typically 2% to 5% of dwelling coverage). A $300,000 home could have a $6,000 to $15,000 hurricane deductible. Tropical storm damage without a hurricane declaration may use your standard (lower) deductible. Review your specific policy before storm season.

Should I tarp my roof before a tropical storm?

No. Tarping before the storm is extremely dangerous and ineffective. Storm winds will tear unsecured tarps off and turn them into projectiles. Tarps are for after the storm, to provide temporary protection while you wait for permanent repairs. Focus pre-storm efforts on maintenance, securing loose items, and reinforcing existing roof components.

Be Ready Before the Storm, Not During It

Tropical storm roof preparation is about what you do in the calm months, not what you scramble to do when a storm is in the Gulf. The homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, and across Pinellas County who come through hurricane season with minimal damage are the ones who prepared their roofs months in advance, maintained their homes year-round, and had a plan in place before the first advisory was issued.

Invest in your roof now. Get the inspection. Make the repairs. Add the hurricane straps. Document your roof condition. Review your insurance. Stock your emergency supplies. When the next tropical storm tracks toward Tampa Bay, you will be ready and your roof will be too.