You Have an Emergency Roof Leak: Now What?

The first thing you should do during an emergency roof leak is immediately move any objects in direct contact with water or drips. Suppose the leak is in a residential home. In that case, you may need to move furniture like couches, beds, or entertainment centers and any electronics that could be destroyed, such as televisions or computers. The same applies to commercial buildings but may include desks, computers, chairs, products, and more. Moving objects out of the way can reduce damages and replacements.

Begin containing the leak the best you can, such as placing bucks under noticeable leaks to catch dripping water, grabbing towels, and laying down tarps if available. If you can identify the leak’s source, you may be able to prevent additional water damage to your building until it is fixed.

The best way to deal with an emergency roof repair is to contact a professional. Many roofers offer emergency repair services to quickly resolve immediate issues and assess your situation. Established and trusted roofing contractors know how to fix leaking roofs of commercial and residential buildings to keep them dry, safe, and comfortable for the people within them. Contacting a professional roofing company ensures repairs are made quickly and efficiently and without the hassle of trying to fix a roof yourself.

Documenting any damage caused by a leaking roof is essential for getting the full benefit from your insurance. Be sure to take pictures of affected areas—including water stains, mold, impacted objects, and roof damage—and record the extent of the damage. Roof damage that might have led to leakage includes cracked, damaged, or missing shingles, along with missing or damaged flashing. It is also crucial to record any estimates, claims, or invoices you receive throughout the process.

Speak with your insurance company to relay the damage and everything you recorded during an inspection. Learn what your policy covers to determine the cost of repairs and to what extent your insurance is willing to pay. They may also require you to work with certain roof repair companies of their choosing.