Storms

The analysis can compare post-storm damage patterns with earlier photographs, inspection reports, maintenance and repair records, material condition, and unaffected comparison areas. The expert may also consider whether the location and orientation of observed damage correspond with documented storm conditions. Depending on the expert's qualifications, the analysis can evaluate whether the physical evidence is consistent with the proposed storm-related explanation rather than assuming that every condition found after a storm was caused by that event.

Different storm mechanisms can leave different spatial and directional patterns. Concentrated debris, widespread wind effects, hail impacts, water entry, or localized damage may provide clues about how the property was exposed. National Weather Service post-storm surveys use damage and debris patterns, together with meteorological evidence, to distinguish causes such as straight-line wind, microbursts, and tornadoes.

Useful materials may include photographs and video taken before and after the event, inspection reports, repair history, weather and storm records, radar imagery, site plans, invoices, damaged components, maintenance records, and documentation showing when conditions were first observed. When repairs or demolition are necessary, detailed documentation beforehand can preserve evidence that may otherwise be unavailable for later comparison.