What to check after high winds in Midhurst
Wild weather can move quickly across the South Downs and leave roofs in Midhurst vulnerable. A calm, careful check right after the wind eases can stop a small issue becoming a major claim. Here is how to assess your roof safely, what to record for insurers and when to call the local team at Roofing Midhurst.
Safety first
Do not climb on the roof. View from the ground with binoculars if you can. Keep away from any fallen power lines. If you suspect structural damage or a live leak near electrics, switch off the relevant circuit and call a professional.
Exterior checks from the ground
- Tiles and slates: Look for missing, slipped or cracked pieces. Pay close attention to the ridge and hip lines where wind pressure is strongest.
- Flashing: Check lead or metal flashing around chimneys, skylights and abutments for lifting or creases.
- Gutters and downpipes: Look for sagging, loose brackets and blockages caused by twigs or tiles. Overflow marks on walls can signal hidden blockages.
- Chimneys and cowls: Scan for leaning stacks, missing mortar and displaced pots or cowls.
- Flat roofs: Inspect felt edges for lifting and check for ponding water that was not there before the storm.
- Fascias and soffits: Note any cracking, rattling or detachment along the eaves.
Interior checks
- Loft space: In daylight look for rays of light through the roof, damp timbers, fresh staining or the smell of wet insulation.
- Ceilings and walls: Check for new brown rings, bubbling paint or hairline cracks that appeared after the wind.
- Around windows and chimney breasts: Look for fresh moisture tracks which can point to flashing or pointing failure.
How to document damage for insurers
Build a clear record
- Note the date and time of the storm and where you are in Midhurst. A simple line such as 2am, North Street, GU29 will do.
- Reference the weather: a screenshot from the Met Office app showing wind speeds can help.
- List everything you spot outside and inside. Be specific, for example two ridge tiles missing above front gable.
Take smart photos and video
- Wide to close: Start with a street view of the property, then move closer to the affected area, then take a clear close up.
- Include scale: Hold a tape measure or common item like a pen in shot to show size of cracks or holes.
- Show direction: Photograph from at least two angles so your insurer can understand location and wind path.
- Record drips: Short video clips of active leaks, ceiling drips or gutter overflows can be very useful.
Keep receipts and get a written estimate
Save receipts for any emergency materials such as tarpaulins, buckets or towels. Ask a qualified roofer for a written inspection report with photos and a detailed estimate for permanent repair. Insurers like clear itemised costs covering labour, materials and access. Our local team prepares reports tailored for claims and can liaise with your loss adjuster if needed. Start by contacting Roofing Midhurst.
Temporary steps you can take
- Catch water: Place buckets or trays under drips and move valuables away from wet areas.
- Protect electrics: Switch off lighting circuits if water is near a fitting. Do not use wet sockets.
- Cover safely: If wind has eased and it is safe at ground level, you can tape a plastic sheet over a small broken window or vent. Do not go on ladders in gusty weather.
- Clear light debris: Remove small branches from paths to prevent tripping. Leave anything heavy or unstable for professionals.
When to call a professional roofer in Midhurst
If you have missing ridge tiles, lifted flashing, a chimney that looks out of line or any active leak, call a roofer promptly. Timely make safe work reduces secondary damage to plaster, insulation and wiring, which also helps your claim. Properties in and around Midhurst often have clay tiles, natural slate or heritage details. These materials need the right fixings and techniques to satisfy both best practice and insurer expectations.
We provide emergency make safe visits, thorough storm damage surveys and durable repairs. From village cottages to newer estates on the town edge, we match materials and keep your roof in character. We can also advise on preventative measures like ridge fix systems, improved ventilation and scheduled gutter care.
Final checklist
- Stay safe and assess from the ground first.
- Check tiles, flashing and gutters outside, then the loft and ceilings inside.
- Document with notes, photos and video. Keep receipts.
- Arrange a professional inspection and written estimate for your insurer.
If high winds have left your roof worse for wear, we are ready to help in Midhurst and nearby villages. For fast advice and a reliable repair plan, reach out to Roofing Midhurst.