Roof Leaking Right Now? What to Do in the First Hour
Water dripping through the ceiling is scary. These steps keep people safe, limit the damage and protect your insurance claim while help is on the way.
1. Make it safe
If water is near light fixtures, outlets or the electrical panel, turn off that breaker. Keep people and pets away from any ceiling that sags or bulges. Never climb on a wet roof, especially in wind or at night.
2. Catch the water and move your things
Put buckets or towels under the drip and move furniture, rugs and electronics out of the way. If a ceiling spot is bulging with water, a small hole in the center lets it drain into a bucket instead of spreading, but only if you can reach it safely from the floor.
3. Take photos and video
Photograph the stain, the drip, wet floors and anything damaged, inside and outside if you can do it from the ground. Your insurance company will ask for them.
4. Call a roofer for an emergency tarp
A tarp secured over the damaged area stops more water from getting in until the permanent repair. Our emergency line answers 24/7: (757) 537-8812.
5. Call your insurance company
If the leak came from storm or wind damage, report it. Keep receipts for the tarp and any cleanup. Every policy is different, so ask your agent what yours covers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wait for the rain to stop?
Make the inside safe right away and call. A tarp can usually go on as soon as it's safe to work on the roof.
Will a small leak fix itself?
No. Water spreads along the decking and into insulation, and small leaks turn into rot and mold.