A homeowner’s guide for Andover residents
After a New England storm, the first signs of damage are often obvious: branches scattered across the lawn, a damaged fence, or shingles lying in the driveway. Other problems are easier to miss—and can become more expensive if left unaddressed.
For Andover homeowners, a careful inspection after strong winds, heavy rain, or snow can help identify concerns early. The key is knowing what to look for, what to document, and when to call a professional.
Start with safety
Wait until conditions are safe and follow local emergency guidance before heading outside. Keep away from downed power lines and anything touching them, including branches, fences, and standing water. Always assume a fallen wire is live and report it to emergency services and your utility company. Massachusetts emergency officials recommend checking for damage only when it is safe to do so. Massachusetts storm safety guidance
If a tree has struck your home or you see signs of structural damage, stay out of the affected area until it has been assessed. Avoid climbing ladders or walking on the roof; a ground-level inspection is the safest place to begin.
Look up: roofing, gutters, and trees
From a safe distance, look for missing or displaced shingles, loose roofing materials, and gutters that have pulled away from the house. Binoculars or your phone’s zoom can help you see details without climbing.
Check the yard for pieces of shingles, siding, or metal flashing—the material that helps keep water out around roof joints and openings. Even a small piece of debris may be a reason to have the roof inspected.
For homeowners who want a closer look, KTM offers roof inspections and drone inspections to help identify visible storm damage, including in areas that are difficult to see from the ground. A professional inspection can help clarify what needs attention and guide the next steps.
Look at nearby trees as well. Broken limbs caught overhead, split trunks, or a newly leaning tree warrant attention from a qualified arborist. Keep people and pets away from these areas.
Check siding, windows, and doors
Walk around the home, watching for cracked or loose siding, broken glass, damaged trim, and gaps around windows and doors. Wind-driven rain can enter through openings that are difficult to spot from outside.
Inside, check around window frames and exterior doors for dampness, staining, or peeling paint. Photograph anything that appears new and note its location so a professional can investigate. Storm damage often extends beyond the roof. KTM provides repairs to all exterior areas of your home, helping homeowners address damage to siding, trim, gutters, and other exterior components.
Watch for water indoors
A roof leak does not always announce itself with a steady drip. New ceiling stains, damp walls, bubbling paint, or a musty smell can signal moisture intrusion.
Check accessible areas of the basement and attic only if they are safe to enter. Never step into a flooded basement where electrical equipment or outlets may be submerged. Water-damaged electrical systems should be evaluated by a qualified electrician. Once the area is safe, prompt drying helps reduce the risk of mold.
CDC guidance for flooded homes
If roofing damage has left your home exposed, temporary protection may be needed before permanent repairs can begin. KTM also offers roof tarping to help limit further water intrusion while repairs are arranged. Tarping should be handled by professionals because storm-damaged roofs can be unsafe.
Document damage and arrange repairs
Take clear photographs of affected areas, including wider views and close-ups, before cleanup or repairs when it is safe. Record when you noticed the damage, keep repair receipts, and contact your insurer promptly to ask about the claims process and required documentation. Massachusetts provides a post-disaster claims guide to help homeowners navigate these steps.
Have qualified professionals handle roof tarping, hazardous tree removal, and structural or electrical repairs. Before hiring, request a written scope of work and verify relevant credentials and insurance.
Check again after the next rainfall
Some problems become visible only later. Revisit suspicious spots over the following days and after the next rain, watching for new stains or recurring dampness.
A few careful observations after a storm can make a meaningful difference. Identifying damage early—and getting the right help—can prevent a small repair from becoming a larger disruption. For Andover homeowners who notice damage or want help assessing their home’s exterior, contact KTM to schedule an inspection and discuss repair options.
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