Fort Wayne homeowners are no strangers to changing weather. Late summer storms can roll through fast, bringing in strong winds, heavy rain, and even hail. After they pass, it’s easy to move on and assume everything is fine. But storm damage isn’t always obvious at first glance. And if it’s left unchecked, small issues can turn into expensive repairs down the road.

A careful property inspection right after a storm is one of the smartest things you can do. It helps catch damage early, keeps your home safe, and gives you solid information if you need to file an insurance claim. Whether it’s your home’s roof, walls, or backyard structures, knowing where and what to look for can make a big difference during storm season in Fort Wayne.

Exterior Inspection

Start outside. The roof often takes the hardest hit during high winds or heavy rain, and even minor roof issues can create leaks that slowly spread to other areas of the house. Look for warning signs like:

– Missing, curled, or buckled shingles

– Granules piling up around the gutters

– Pieces of flashing that have come loose

– Damaged soffits or fascia

Next, check your gutters and downspouts. They play a big role in moving water away from your house. If they’re clogged or damaged in places, water could back up and seep into the siding or foundation. Make sure they’re clear of leaves and branches and securely fastened, especially near the corners of the house.

Windows and doors should be next on your checklist. Inspect for cracked panes, water spots between the glass, or worn seals. Test each window by gently pressing on the frame to see if it moves more than it should. This could be a sign of warping or water saturation during the storm.

Lastly, take a walk around the base of your home. The foundation may reveal cracks that weren’t there before. If the ground around the walls feels unusually soft or sunken in certain spots, that could hint at drainage issues caused by the recent weather. This is something to catch early to avoid long-term structural damage.

A homeowner in Southwest Fort Wayne once skipped their walk-around after a storm, confident everything looked fine. Weeks later, water started leaking through their ceiling, and the source traced all the way back to a single cracked shingle above their garage. A quick check early on could’ve helped them avoid major water damage inside.

Interior Inspection

Once you’ve checked the outside, move indoors. The most common problem after a heavy storm is hidden water damage. Look closely at ceilings and walls for signs like yellow or brown stains, sagging corners, or bubbling paint. These may be the first clues that water seeped in from above.

Go into your attic next. Grab a flashlight and scan overhead. You’re looking for dark or damp spots on the wood, or visible mold starting to form. Even if things seem dry, any musty smell is worth paying attention to. That odor often appears before mold is clearly visible.

Down in the basement or crawl space, inspect for pooled water or soft, swollen areas along the baseboards. You might even find small mud trails along the wall or floor, which can point to recent flooding or poor drainage around the home’s base.

Don’t skip over your outlets, light fixtures, or appliances. If the storm brought in any water or caused a power surge, these could be affected. Look for flickering lights, non-functioning outlets, or stains around ceiling fixtures. Even if everything still works, document what you see. It will help explain things if issues come up later.

Pay attention to what you hear too. Unusual dripping, humming, or sudden silence from usually active systems like the HVAC can be signs of something wrong. Trust your instincts. If something looks or sounds off, it’s worth getting checked out.

Landscape And Outdoor Structures

Once the inside of your home checks out, take a good look at the yard and outdoor spaces. These areas often get hit hard during storms, especially in places like Fort Wayne where high winds and heavy rain can tear through with little warning. The damage outside may not seem as urgent, but over time it can weaken the safety and value of your property.

Start with fences. Walk along each section and check for loose posts, leaning panels, or cracks in the structure. Wood fences may show warping or splintered areas from water saturation, while metal ones might develop rust or bent sections from fallen debris.

Next, look at your deck or patio. Boards that feel soft, shift under your feet, or show signs of mildew may have absorbed water. Cracks between stones on a patio could indicate shifting from soil erosion during the storm. If you spot standing water around the base, drainage could be a problem.

Trees and shrubs might seem fine at a glance, but make sure to:

– Check for hanging branches that could fall later

– Look at the base for signs of uprooting or leaning

– Remove debris tucked into bushes that might hold moisture

Outdoor furniture and grills often get tossed around or dinged up in high winds. Even if they stayed in place, inspect them for dents, cracked frames, or loose bolts. Damage might not be obvious unless you physically test each item.

Finally, walk your driveway and any paved paths. Cracks that widen or new ones that have appeared could be signs of stress from water pressure or shifting ground. Mark those spots so you’ll know if they grow bigger or lead to more serious foundation concerns.

What To Do Next

If you’ve spotted damage during your inspection, don’t wait. Acting quickly after a storm can help avoid bigger problems later. Even if things appear minor, they can turn worse fast once another round of rain or wind hits.

Here’s a simple plan to get started:

1. Take clear photos or videos of all damage, both inside and out. Include close-ups and wide shots to show exactly where the damage is located.

2. Write down notes by area: roof, gutters, siding, basement, fence, etc. This helps track what you’ve already checked and makes it easier when speaking with your insurance company.

3. Reach out to your insurance provider and report the damage. Be ready to share your photos and notes if needed.

4. Avoid doing major repairs on your own. Temporary fixes like placing a tarp over a leaky roof are fine, but leave the full inspection and proper repairs to a pro. That way, nothing gets missed and you’re protected if future issues come up.

Keep all your records organized in one safe place. It’ll save time and lower stress during the claims process.

Stay Ahead of the Next Storm

Storm season in Fort Wayne can be unpredictable. Staying one step ahead is a smart way to protect your property and your peace of mind. Make inspections part of your storm routine. Even if something seems minor, small problems now can grow into major repairs later.

Keep checking your home’s condition. If you see new cracks, sagging spots, or staining on your walls or ceilings, take note. Acting early means less hassle and fewer surprises down the road.

It’s also a good idea to go over your storm plan with your family. Make sure you know where emergency supplies are, how to shut off the main water valve, and who to contact in an emergency. A little planning now helps everyone feel more ready when the next storm rolls in.

Questions? Call us today for a consultation! 📞 (888) 675-0911

Storm damage can be tricky to spot if you don’t know what to look for, and addressing it quickly can save you a lot of trouble down the line. If you need professional assistance identifying the signs of storm damage, consider exploring our range of services at Disaster Adjusting. We’re here to help safeguard your home and ensure all repairs are handled properly. Questions? Call us today for a consultation! 📞 (888) 675-0911