Roof Leaking in a Storm? What to Do Before the Roofer Arrives
What to do right away
- Stay safe. If water is near outlets, light fixtures or the breaker box, or you smell burning, shut off power to that area if it is safe to reach and stay away from it. If you smell gas, leave the house and call emergency services.
- Contain the water. Use buckets and towels. Move furniture, rugs and electronics out of the room.
- Do not climb on the roof. A wet roof is dangerous, and a fall costs far more than a leak.
- Photograph and video everything. Hailstones next to a coin, fallen limbs, missing shingles, ceiling stains and standing water, with the date and time.
- Call a local roofer. Tell them what happened and what you see. Our roof leak repair page has more first-aid steps.
Insurance and temporary repairs
Insurance carriers generally expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent more damage, such as containing the water. Keep the receipts for anything you buy for a temporary fix, keep your photos, and call your insurer to open the claim. If the damage is from hail or wind, we help you document it and meet the adjuster at your house. Our storm damage repair page explains how that works.
What to expect from a local roofer
We are a local company, not a 24-hour service. After a storm, call (918) 471-2777 and tell us what happened. If we have a crew available, we will come out and help. If we cannot get there right away, we will tell you straight and tell you what to do until we can.
When we inspect, we look at the roof, attic and siding, show you photos of what we find, and give you a written price. If a repair will do, we say so. If the roof is past saving, we show you why before we recommend a replacement.
How to avoid storm chasers
- Be careful with anyone who knocks on your door right after a storm and asks you to sign the same day.
- Ask for an Oklahoma license number and proof of insurance. Ours is Oklahoma License #80004379.
- Get the scope and the full price in writing.
- Choose a company with a local phone number and a record you can check, such as reviews on Google, Angi and HomeAdvisor.
Fair price, no pressure
We do not use high-pressure sales or gimmicks. You get a free inspection and a written price for the work your roof actually needs. See also our guide to choosing an emergency roofer in Tulsa. When you are ready, get a free estimate or call (918) 471-2777.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my roof is leaking during a storm?
Put a bucket under the leak, move furniture and electronics out of the way, and stay off the wet roof. Photograph the damage, then call a local roofer and your insurance company.
Does insurance cover temporary repairs?
Insurers generally expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent more damage. Keep your receipts and photos and call your insurer to confirm what your policy covers.
Do you come out right after a storm?
We are not a 24-hour service. Call (918) 471-2777 and tell us what happened. If we have a crew available we will come out and help, and if not we will tell you what to do until we can.
How do I tell a trustworthy roofer from a storm chaser?
Ask for an Oklahoma license number and proof of insurance, get the price in writing, and be careful with anyone who pressures you to sign the same day.
