Buffalo Roof Pros

Homeowner guides · Updated · Sources cited below

How do you spot roof wind damage after a Buffalo windstorm?

Look for missing or lifted shingles, exposed underlayment, granules at downspouts, loose flashing, damaged soffits and new attic leaks. Angi reports shingles start blowing off around 47 to 54 mph.[1] Inspect from the ground, photograph everything, tell your insurer promptly, and make only temporary repairs until the adjuster inspects.[2]

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Signs to look for

  • Missing shingles or exposed underlayment, and shingles in the yard.[1]
  • Lifted or curled shingles: areas that look out of line. If you can slip a hand under a shingle, it's damaged.[1]
  • Granule loss: discoloration or granules at downspouts.[1]
  • Flat roofs: wrinkles, cracks or tears.[1]
  • Soffit, fascia, gutters and chimney: loose, bent, dented or missing pieces.[1]
  • Leaks in the attic or ceiling stains that show up days later.[1]

How much wind does it take?

Angi reports roof wind damage is most likely above 47 mph: about 47–54 mph can blow shingles off, 55–64 mph can cause structural roof damage, and 75 mph or more can lift roofs.[1] Poor previous installation and flying debris are leading causes.[1]

Open, exposed spots get hit hardest: Grand Island and North Tonawanda along the Niagara River, Lewiston on the escarpment, open Wheatfield subdivisions and lakeshore Lackawanna.

Document it for insurance

  1. Photograph damage from the ground and inside.[1]
  2. Notify your insurer or agent promptly by phone, then in writing, and keep copies.[2]
  3. Protect the house from further damage (a tarp, for example) and keep receipts; DFS says this cost is generally covered.[2]
  4. Do not make permanent repairs before the insurer inspects; it can refuse to pay for damage repaired first.[2]

More in our NY roof insurance guide and storm-chaser scam guide. Find storm damage roofers.

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Frequently asked questions

Is wind damage covered by homeowners insurance in NY?

Windstorm is a standard covered peril on most homeowners policies, per the Insurance Information Institute, but check your declarations and deductibles.

Can I fix a few missing shingles myself?

Angi advises against getting on the roof; a tarp from a pro and photos protect you until the adjuster inspects.

What if my insurer disagrees with the damage amount?

DFS suggests asking for the policy language, reviewing the estimate line by line with the adjuster and contractor, and getting an independent second estimate.

How do I prevent wind damage?

Angi suggests repairing loose shingles, trimming branches near the roof, clearing gutters and securing loose outdoor items.

Related guides

Does homeowners insurance cover roof wind or ice damage in New York?

What to do after storm damage to your roof in Western New York

How to avoid roofing scams after storms in Western New York

All homeowner guides

Sources

  1. Angi, "What to Do If You've Had Wind Damage to Your Roof" (updated Jul 9, 2026)
  2. NY Department of Financial Services, "Managing and Mitigating Losses"
  3. Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I), "Which disasters are covered by homeowners insurance?"

Sources retrieved October 16–20, 2026. Cost figures are published national averages, not quotes and not WNY-specific. This guide is general information, not legal or insurance advice.

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