You do not need to climb a ladder to spot useful signs of storm damage. In fact, after high winds that is exactly when you should stay off the roof.
Start at ground level
Look for tiles, slate, ridge pieces or mortar on the ground. Stand back and check the roofline for obvious gaps, lifted tiles or displaced flashing. Binoculars or a phone zoom are safer than a ladder.
Check the loft only if access is safe
From a safe boarded position, look for daylight, fresh damp, wet insulation or water marks. Do not step between joists and do not touch damaged electrical fittings.
Photograph what you can see
A few clear photos can help explain the problem when you call and are also useful for your own records. Avoid getting close to loose materials just to take a better picture.
Loose roofing can be a safety issue
A tile that has moved but not yet fallen can still be dangerous. If material is hanging over a path, entrance or public area, keep people clear and seek urgent professional help.
Related help
Give loose material a wide berth
A displaced ridge, hanging gutter or lifted sheet can remain dangerous after the wind has eased. Keep entrances and paths below affected areas clear where possible. Do not stand beneath the defect for a closer photograph or attempt to pull material down. If there is an immediate danger to people, seek urgent assistance appropriate to the situation.
Record the damage from safe positions
Take wide photos showing the roof area and closer views using zoom from the ground. Photograph any safely accessible fallen material before moving it out of the way. Note when the damage was discovered and whether water is entering. Internal pictures can help record the extent of wetting without requiring roof access.
Hidden movement can remain after the storm
A tile can lift and settle back with a damaged fixing. Flat-roof trims and flashing may loosen without detaching completely. That is why the inspection should consider the area around the obvious gap, particularly at exposed edges and ridges. Replacing only the missing unit may leave neighbouring damage unresolved.
Temporary repairs and insurance records
Where immediate protection is needed, keep the work description and invoice separate from the permanent repair proposal. Contact your insurer and follow its instructions if making a claim. A roofer can document visible condition and the work needed, but cannot promise that a policy will pay for deterioration or storm damage.
Plan the permanent follow-up
Once conditions permit, the roof needs a repair suited to its covering, support and exposure. Tell the roofer about access restrictions and equipment on the roof. Keep a record of any new wet marks during subsequent rain, and delay internal decoration until the area is dry and the weathering problem has been resolved.
This guide is general information, not a substitute for inspecting the individual roof or checking current planning/building requirements for a specific property.