The 12-point Sterling pre-season checklist

• Missing, lifted, or curled shingles, replace before wind gets under them.
• Loose or corroded flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vent stacks.
• Cracked pipe boots (a #1 leak source on 10+ year old Florida roofs).
• Soft spots or spongy decking underfoot, indicates rot from prior leaks.
• Debris in valleys and gutters that will dam water during a storm.
• Overhanging tree limbs within 10 feet of the roof, trim now.
• Attic ventilation blocked by insulation or wasp nests.
• Loose ridge vent screws or missing end caps.
• Cracked mortar caps on tile roofs.
• Rusted or missing hurricane straps visible from the attic.
• Fasteners popping through shingles (a sign the deck has movement).
• Prior repairs made with mismatched materials that voided warranty.

Document everything now

Take dated photos of your roof's current condition, keep copies of your last inspection report, and store your policy declarations page in cloud storage. If a claim comes later, before-and-after evidence dramatically speeds settlement.