Phone answered 24/7 · Burnsville, MN and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (952) 522-6744
Minnesota River Dry-Out ProsWater Damage Help · Burnsville, MN

Storm Damage to Commercial Roofs: What Property Managers Know

Last updated October 25, 2026

Call Now (952) 522-6744

The short answer

First Steps After a Storm

After a severe storm, walk the perimeter of your commercial building and look for obvious signs like torn flashing, dented metal panels, or debris on the roof. Also check inside for new stains, damp ceiling tiles, or water on floors, especially near walls and HVAC units. These clues tell you whether you need immediate help or can wait for a full inspection.

Document everything with photos and notes, including the date and time of the storm. This record helps your insurance company understand the timeline. If you see active leaking, place buckets or tarps to protect interior finishes and equipment, but avoid walking on a wet or damaged roof yourself. Your safety comes first, and the pros have the right gear and experience.

  • Check for fallen branches or debris on the roof surface
  • Look for lifted or curled shingles, tiles, or membrane edges
  • Inspect gutters and drains for blockages from leaves or hail
  • Note any new water stains on ceilings or walls
  • Check around roof penetrations like vents, pipes, and AC units

Why Professional Inspection Matters

A professional water damage inspection goes beyond what you can see from the ground or a ladder. The pros use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden pockets of water trapped in insulation or under the roof membrane. They can also identify weak spots that may fail in the next storm, saving you from repeated leaks.

In a humid continental climate like Burnsville, freeze-thaw cycles can worsen small tears and punctures, turning a minor issue into a major structural problem. An inspection gives you a clear picture of the roof's condition, so you can decide on repairs or replacement with confidence. The pros will document their findings, which you can share with your insurance company if needed.

Common Storm Damage Types

High winds can peel back membrane edges or lift metal panels, exposing the deck to rain and debris. Hail can dent metal roofs, crack shingles, or create punctures in single-ply membranes. Heavy rain can overwhelm drainage systems, causing ponding water that stresses the roof structure and leads to leaks.

Fallen trees or branches can tear large holes, while flying debris can damage flashing and vents. Each type of damage requires a different repair approach, which is why a thorough assessment is key. The pros can tell you whether a patch will hold or if a section needs replacement, and they can prioritize the most urgent fixes to stop further water entry.

Insurance and Documentation

Your commercial property insurance may cover storm damage, but policies vary widely. Document the damage with photos and keep all receipts for temporary repairs, like tarping or board-up services. Do not discard damaged materials until the insurance adjuster has seen them, as they serve as evidence of the cause and extent of the loss.

File a claim as soon as you can, and be prepared to describe the storm event and the damage it caused. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keeping a clear, factual record helps the process go more smoothly. The pros can provide a detailed damage report that supports your claim, but they do not handle the insurance paperwork for you.

Preventing Future Storm Damage

Regular roof maintenance is your sensible defense against storm damage. After each season, have the roof inspected for wear, loose seams, and clogged drains. Trim overhanging branches that could fall during high winds, and ensure that rooftop equipment is securely anchored. These steps reduce the risk of leaks and extend the life of your roof.

Consider upgrading to more impact-resistant roofing materials if your area experiences frequent hail or severe storms. Work with a roofing professional to evaluate your current system and recommend improvements. While you cannot stop a storm, you can make your roof more resilient, which protects your building's interior and your bottom line.

Talk to someone now

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

Call Now (952) 522-6744

Frequently asked questions

How soon should I get a professional inspection after a storm?

As soon as it is safe to do so, ideally within a few days. Water damage can spread quickly through insulation and drywall, so early detection helps limit the scope of repairs. The pros can schedule a thorough inspection and give you a clear assessment of what needs attention.

Can I make temporary repairs myself to stop leaks?

You can place tarps or buckets to protect interior spaces, but avoid climbing on a damaged roof. Temporary patches may not hold and could hide the extent of the damage. The pros will perform the proper temporary fixes and then plan permanent repairs.

What should I do if my roof is still leaking during the storm?

Your first priority is safety. Move valuables and equipment away from the leak, and place containers to catch water. Do not touch electrical panels or wiring near water. Once the storm passes, contact a professional for an inspection and repairs.

Call Now (952) 522-6744