Arizona's monsoon winds, hail, and flying debris damage roofs every season, but the signs aren't always dramatic. A lifted shingle or a broken seal can look fine from the driveway and still let water in during the next storm. Here's what to watch for.
Signs you can spot from the ground
- Shingles that are lifted, curled, creased, or missing
- Tiles that have slipped, cracked, or blown off
- Granules collecting in gutters and downspouts
- Torn, bent, or missing flashing around vents and chimneys
- Debris on the roof or in the yard from trees or neighbors' property
- Detached or sagging gutters and fascia
Signs inside your home
Sometimes the first sign of roof damage shows up indoors, days or weeks after the storm:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Damp spots or a musty smell in the attic
- Daylight visible through the roof boards
- Peeling paint near the roofline
- A sudden spike in your energy bill (lost insulation/seal)
Storm damage gets worse with every storm that follows. Documenting it promptly — before the next monsoon cell — protects both your home and your claim.
What to do next
If you notice any of these, don't wait for a leak to get worse. Photograph what you can safely see, note the date of the storm, and have the roof professionally inspected. A free inspection from a public adjuster tells you whether you have a claim worth pursuing — with no pressure either way.