Emergency roof repair

Containment comes before repair. If a ceiling is bulging with trapped water, a small hole at the lowest point over a bucket releases it in a controlled way — a collapsing ceiling does far more damage. Move furniture and electronics out of the path.

Then dry it. The EPA advises cleaning and drying wet or damp spots within 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Fans, dehumidifiers and pulled-back soaked insulation matter as much as the tarp.

Document as you go. Water damage claims are common and expensive — the Insurance Information Institute puts the average water damage and freezing claim at $13,954 across 2018–2022 — and your photos are the evidence. Keep receipts for tarps, fans and any emergency work.

Finally, be careful about who you hire in the first 48 hours. Storm-chasing crews arrive fast and leave faster. A tarp from anyone competent is fine; a permanent repair contract signed on your doorstep at night is not.

How to choose

Safety first, always

Stay off a wet or damaged roof. If there is water near electrical fixtures or panels, cut power to that circuit before going near it.

Relieve a bulging ceiling

A small hole at the lowest point of the bulge, over a bucket, is better than letting the whole ceiling come down.

Photograph before you touch anything

Wide and close shots, inside and out, plus timestamps. This is what your claim will rest on.

Get a tarp, not a contract

Emergency stabilization is a separate, small job. Sign nothing permanent until you have compared quotes in daylight.

Start drying within 48 hours

The EPA advises drying wet or damp spots within 48 hours to prevent mold. Remove soaked insulation and open up wet cavities.