Quick Answer
Use this Roof Inspection Checklist for Nashville’s Storm Season before severe weather and after storms. It helps you spot hazards, document conditions, and align with homeowners insurance Nashville expectations for wind/hail claims.
- Shingles: missing, curled, cracked
- Flashing: gaps at chimneys/vents
- Gutters/Downspouts: secure, clean
- Ventilation: clear soffits/ridge vents
- Trees: clear limbs away from roof
- Photos: date‑stamped “before” set
- Safety: power lines, gas, leaks
- Scan: shingles, flashing, vents
- Water: attic/ceilings, stains
- Document: photos, receipts, tarps
- Call: roofer/insurer as needed
- Check: wind/hail deductible
Pre‑Storm Inspection
Complete these checks every spring/fall and before forecasted severe weather. Perform inspections from the ground when possible; avoid climbing on steep or wet roofs. Use binoculars, a drone where legal, or hire a licensed roofer for steep or complex roofs. Homeowners often discover code upgrade gaps only after storm damage — our Ordinance or Law Coverage Guide details how these costs are handled in a claim.
Shingles & Roof Surface
- Look for missing, lifted, or creased shingles.
- Granule loss in gutters/downspouts can indicate wear.
- Check seal strips and nail pops; note blistering or sagging.
Flashing & Penetrations
- Inspect chimney, skylight, pipe, and wall flashings.
- Sealant should be intact; no gaps, corrosion, or loose edges.
- Kickout flashing at roof‑wall intersections should divert water.
Gutters, Downspouts, Drainage
- Clean debris; ensure downspouts discharge 4–6 ft from foundation.
- Secure hangers; check for sagging, seam leaks, and pitch.
- Add gutter guards and splash blocks where needed.
Attic & Ventilation
- Look for daylight at penetrations, water stains, mold, or odors.
- Ensure soffit/ridge vents are unobstructed; verify baffles.
- Check insulation depth and moisture; confirm bath fans vent outside.
Trees & Site Risks
- Trim branches 8–10 ft from roof; remove dead/diseased limbs.
- Secure outdoor furniture; store grills, planters, and décor.
- Check fencing and sheds under Coverage B exposures.
Photos & Baseline
- Capture date‑stamped photos from all sides + attic.
- Save receipts for maintenance; keep a digital folder per year.
- Note roof age/material on your home inventory sheet.
Post‑Storm Triage
When storms pass, prioritize safety and swift documentation. If you suspect structural damage, avoid entry until cleared by professionals.
Safety Sweep
Downed lines, gas odors, active leaks, fallen trees. Call utilities/911 if hazards exist.
Exterior Scan
Visible shingle loss, lifted tabs, missing ridge caps, dented vents, bent gutters, damaged flashing.
Interior/Attic Check
Wet insulation, ceiling stains, damp sheathing; bag wet materials to reduce mold risk.
Temporary Mitigation
Tarp openings; photograph every step. Save receipts—these are usually reimbursable under property coverage.
Contact Pros/Insurer
If damage is more than cosmetic or if water infiltrated, call a licensed roofer and your insurer. Ask about your wind/hail deductible and timelines.
Roof Material & Risk Matrix
Material and age drive both performance and how insurers treat claims (e.g., ACV on older roofs). Values below are regional, illustrative ranges for Middle Tennessee as of 2025.
| Material | Typical Lifespan | Hail/Wind Resilience | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3‑Tab Asphalt | 15–20 yrs | Low–Moderate | Higher uplift risk; more prone to granule loss. |
| Architectural Asphalt | 25–35 yrs | Moderate–High | Better wind ratings; Class 3/4 options available. |
| Metal (Standing Seam) | 40–70 yrs | High | Excellent wind/hail resilience; inspect fasteners and seams. |
| Tile/Slate | 50+ yrs | High (impact varies) | Heavy; check underlayment and fragile break risks. |
| Flat (TPO/Modified) | 15–30 yrs | Moderate | Puncture risk; ensure drainage and seam integrity. |
Risk by Roof Age (Illustrative)
Common Failure Points
Seasonal Maintenance Calendar
Stay ahead of Nashville’s storm season with a simple schedule. Pair tasks with reminders in your phone and keep receipts for insurance records.
| Season | Tasks | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Clean gutters, trim trees, inspect flashing, repair lifted shingles | Prepare for thunderstorms and tornado risk |
| Summer | Check attic ventilation, inspect for heat blisters, secure outdoor items | High UV and pop‑up storms |
| Fall | Leaf removal, re‑inspect gutters/downspouts, seal penetrations | Prevent ice dams and winter leaks |
| Winter | Spot‑check after wind events, look for interior stains, clear light snow loads safely | Use roof rakes only if safe; avoid walking on icy roofs |
Insurance Readiness
Nashville storms often trigger wind/hail deductibles of 1–2% of Coverage A. Example: if Coverage A is $400,000, a 1% deductible is $4,000. Flat deductibles may be available as buy‑backs with some carriers.
Out‑of‑Pocket for $400k Coverage A (Illustrative)
Claims Checklist
- Before/after photos, receipts, reports
- Policy: wind/hail deductible, RC vs ACV
- Timelines: report promptly, mitigate
- Vetted pros; beware door‑to‑door offers
Trusted & Verified
- BBB A‑rated partners (where available)
- Licensed Tennessee carriers (TDCI verified)
- IBHS Roof Rating guidance aligned
Get a Nashville Home Insurance Quote
Compare Nashville Home Insurance Rates — Enter Your ZIP Code to See Live Wind/Hail Deductible Options.
DIY vs Professional
DIY is Fine For
- Ground‑level visual scans with binoculars.
- Cleaning gutters; securing downspout extensions.
- Trimming small, reachable branches safely.
Hire a Pro When
- Roof is steep, high, complex, or wet/icy.
- There are leaks, structural concerns, or widespread shingle loss.
- Insurance requires a licensed inspection report.