Published 2026-10-20 · Kansas City roofing guide
In short
Walk the yard, look up from every side, check the attic with a flashlight, then check ceilings. Photograph everything.
Outside
- Shingles, ridge caps or pieces of flashing in the yard
- Bare or lighter patches where shingles are missing
- Lifted shingle edges along rakes and ridges
- Branches resting on the roof
- Gutters pulled away from the fascia
In the attic
- Daylight showing through the roof deck
- Wet or darkened decking and rafters
- Damp or compressed insulation
Inside the house
- New stains on ceilings, especially near exterior walls
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
- Drips around light fixtures or vents
If water is coming in, see emergency roof repair.
Questions
Is it safe to get on the roof after a storm?
No. Wet and damaged roofs are slippery and may have weak spots. Inspect from the ground and the attic.
Should I call my insurer first or a roofer?
Many homeowners have the roof inspected first so they know whether there is damage worth claiming.
