Emergency Roofing Guide: Steps to Take Before Help Arrives

When a storm rages and your roof suddenly gives way, every second feels like an hour. The sound of water dripping inside, shingles scattered like leaves, and the gnawing worry about what comes next—it’s overwhelming.

You’re not alone. Ferns Roofing has seen it all. With licensed, insured crews ready 24/7 nationwide, we know what matters most: safety first, then fast action to keep your home or business dry and secure. This guide shows you what to do, step by step, before help arrives.

Assessing the Situation Safely 🛑

Before you do anything else, pause. Take a breath. Safety isn’t just a box to tick—it’s your lifeline.

Checklist:

• Wait until the storm passes. No roof is worth risking a life.
• Look for obvious hazards: fallen trees, hanging wires, large debris.
• If water is dripping near electrical outlets, turn off power at the breaker—if you can do so safely.
• Spot signs of structural damage: sagging ceilings, bowing walls.
• Step carefully. Wet floors and insulation can be as slick as ice.

Tip: Use a flashlight, not candles, to check interior damage. The National Fire Protection Association warns that open flames and gas leaks are a dangerous mix.

Documentation:
Take photos or short videos of any damage you notice. Snap the roof, ceiling, and any affected rooms. These images are gold for insurance claims and help emergency roofers know what to expect.

Temporary Measures You Can Take

Sometimes, a bucket is the best friend you have. But there are a few more things you can do to limit damage until Ferns Roofing arrives.

Quick Fixes:

• Place buckets or sturdy containers under leaks.
• Move valuables, electronics, and rugs away from drips.
• If water is pooling above a ceiling bulge, poke a small hole to let it drain in a controlled way—using a bucket below.
• For minor damage, a tarp can help. Anchor the corners with heavy objects—never nails or screws.

Important:
Do not climb onto the roof during or right after a storm. Wet shingles and high winds make even a flat roof as risky as a tightrope.

Insurance Tip:
Keep receipts for any supplies you buy (tarp, buckets, etc.). Many policies reimburse emergency expenses.

What Not to Do 🚫

It’s tempting to play hero. But some actions do more harm than good.

Avoid:

• Climbing onto any roof in wet, windy, or icy conditions.
• Using power tools near standing water.
• Trying to patch large holes or structural damage yourself.
• Ignoring water near electrical fixtures or outlets.
• Throwing tarps over chimneys or skylights—these areas need special care.

Why?
Falls are the top cause of home-repair injuries, says the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Leave the heights to the pros.

When to Call Emergency Roofers

You’ve done what you can. Now it’s time to call in the cavalry.

Call Ferns Roofing If:

• You see daylight through your roof.
• Water is pouring in, not just dripping.
• You suspect structural damage—sagging beams, bowing ceilings, cracks in walls.
• Shingles, tiles, or metal panels have blown off in large sections.
• Gutters, downspouts, or flashing are missing or twisted loose.
• The roof is above a business or multi-family property.

Remember:
Ferns Roofing is licensed, insured, and ready to respond 24/7 nationwide. There’s no damage too big or small. The sooner you call, the sooner we can help prevent long-term problems like mold or rot.

Mistakes to Avoid During Roof Emergencies

Sometimes, well-meaning quick fixes can lead to costlier repairs.

Common Mistakes:

• Waiting too long to call for help.
• Removing debris without checking for live wires.
• Using household ladders that aren’t rated for roof work.
• Forgetting to document the original damage.
• Covering vents or exhaust pipes (can cause dangerous indoor air issues).

Insurance Documentation: Your Best Defense

Insurance adjusters love evidence. The more you have, the smoother your claim.

What to Document:

• Date and time of the damage.
• Weather conditions (hail, wind, etc.).
• Photos and videos—before and after any temporary fixes.
• A list of what’s damaged inside and out.
• Receipts for emergency supplies or hotel stays.

Tip:
Check your policy for “emergency mitigation” requirements. Many insurers expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage.

Emergency Roofing Checklist

• [ ] Ensure everyone is safe and out of hazardous areas.
• [ ] Turn off power if water is near outlets or wiring.
• [ ] Collect water in buckets or containers.
• [ ] Move valuables away from leaks.
• [ ] Take photos/videos of all damage.
• [ ] Apply tarp only if safe and minor damage.
• [ ] Call Ferns Roofing for 24/7 emergency help.
• [ ] Save all receipts and notes for insurance.

When Is It Really an Emergency? 🚨

Not every leak is a five-alarm fire, but some damage can quickly snowball.

It’s an Emergency If:

• Water is actively entering multiple rooms.
• Structural supports are compromised.
• There’s visible daylight through the roof.
• Damage threatens electrical or HVAC systems.
• It’s a business or multi-unit property with tenants at risk.

If you’re in doubt, err on the side of caution and call Ferns Roofing.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Storm Damage Restoration needs can spike in different regions and seasons. Heavy snow in the north. Hail and wind in the Midwest. Hurricanes along the coast. Each brings its own challenges.

Tips:

• After hurricanes, watch for hidden damage from flying debris.
• In snowy regions, ice dams can cause leaks weeks after a storm.
• High winds often damage roof edges, so check gutters and downspouts.
• Wildfire-prone areas may suffer from heat-damaged shingles or flashing.

Check your local building codes for specific requirements after weather events. FEMA and the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) are good reference points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How fast will an emergency roofer arrive?
A: Response times vary, especially during widespread storms. Ferns Roofing operates 24/7 and prioritizes active leaks and safety hazards.

Q: Will insurance cover emergency roof repairs?
A: Most property insurance covers sudden, accidental damage (like storms), but not wear and tear. Document everything and call your insurer as soon as possible.

Q: What’s the difference between a leak and a roofing emergency?
A: A small, slow drip in one room is less urgent than a major breach exposing your interior to the elements. If in doubt, call Ferns Roofing for guidance.

Q: Should I stay in my home if the roof is damaged?
A: If there’s risk of collapse, exposed wiring, or major leaks, it’s safer to leave until repairs are made.

Prevention and Maintenance

Emergency repairs are stressful—but a little prevention goes a long way.

Maintain by:

• Scheduling regular roof inspections, especially after major storms.
• Cleaning gutters and downspouts to avoid backups.
• Checking attic insulation and ventilation.
• Replacing missing or broken shingles/tiles quickly.
• Having skylights, chimneys, and flashing professionally checked.

Remember:
Ferns Roofing offers inspections, preventative maintenance, and eco-friendly options for both homes and businesses.

Costs and Time Factors

Roof emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. Costs and repair times depend on the scale and type of damage.

Factors:

• Size and material of your roof (shingles, metal, tile, flat, etc.).
• Accessibility—steep or multi-story roofs can take longer.
• Severity—minor leaks may be patched in hours, while major structural repairs can take days.
• Weather—ongoing storms can delay safe repairs.

Note:
Emergency service fees are sometimes higher due to after-hours or hazardous conditions. Always ask for an assessment and written estimate before work begins.

No matter the hour, no matter the storm, Ferns Roofing is here to help—licensed, insured, and experienced with all types of emergency roofing. Don’t wait for leaks to become floods.

Call Ferns Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  877-362-4465 .