Emergency Roof Leak: Steps to Take Right Now

Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from active leaks. Place buckets, towels, or plastic sheeting to capture water. If there is any concern about electrical safety (water near outlets or panels), turn off power to affected areas and call an electrician.

Work from the inside — look at the ceiling for water stains or active drips. Water often travels along rafters before dripping, so the visible wet spot may not be directly under the leak. Do not go onto the roof during rain or if the roof is wet.

If you can access the attic safely, placing a bucket under the leak and plastic sheeting over insulation can reduce interior damage. Do not attempt to patch the roof from inside — this is not a permanent solution.

Once rain has stopped and it is safe to access the roof, a waterproof tarp secured over the leak area can prevent additional water intrusion. Use weighted boards or sandbags to secure the tarp edges. Keep all receipts for materials — many insurers cover emergency tarping.

Take dated photos and video of all interior and exterior damage before, during, and after temporary repairs. This documentation supports your insurance claim.

Notify your insurer of the damage. Even if you believe the cause is clear, an adjuster will need to assess the damage. Filing promptly is important — most policies have time requirements.

A temporary fix is not a permanent repair. Contact a licensed roofing contractor for a professional assessment of the cause and full extent of the damage. Keep all estimates for your claim.