Don’t be shy about calling your agent and telling him/her that you may have damage — chances are the company will have adjusters in the area anyway. You can even file your claim online!

After you make the call make a list of all the damage you have noticed. Some of the things to inspect and to look for are dents in gutter, bent fins on the air conditioner, dented roof vents and pipe caps, dents in window wraps and facia, damaged lawn furniture and flower pots. Roof damage is about the only thing that can’t be assessed from the ground, just because the damage isn’t visible does not mean that it isn’t there, and extensive.

The one place to look is at the end of downspouts, look for small pieces of roofing and granules. Also inspect your vehicles, any storm that causes vehicle damage usually causes roof damage. After you have made your inspection make sure you are home when the adjuster comes and call his attention to the things you have noted.

If you feel more comfortable have a contractor there when the adjuster comes, chances are the whole process can be simplified, and repairs can begin sooner.