Emergency Roof Repair

Not every roof problem requires emergency service—and paying emergency rates when you don't need to wastes money. Here's what genuinely qualifies as an emergency worth paying premium rates for 24/7 help. For typical repair costs and timelines, see our complete cost guide.

• Active interior leaking: Water actively entering your home during or after a storm. More on leak detection and fixes.
• Large sections missing: Significant portions of your roof blown off, exposing interior to weather. Document for insurance claims.
• Major storm damage: Severe hail, wind, or tornado damage that compromises the roof's weather protection.
• Tree or debris impact: A tree, large branch, or flying debris has punctured or damaged your roof.
• Fire damage: Any roof damage from fire that leaves your home exposed.

Not emergencies: Old leaks that appear only during heavy rain but you've lived with for weeks, minor visible damage with no interior impact, or cosmetic issues. These need attention but can wait for normal business hours and better weather. Material-specific concerns? Check our materials comparison.

1. Ensure Safety First

If there's significant structural damage or your roof is partially collapsed, evacuate and call 911 if needed. Don't enter areas with visible ceiling sag or structural instability.

2. Minimize Interior Damage

Move furniture and valuables away from leak areas. Place buckets under active drips. Use plastic sheeting or tarps to protect floors and belongings. Turn off electricity to affected areas if water is near outlets or fixtures—safety first.

3. Document Everything

Before contractors arrive, take extensive photos and videos of all damage—both exterior roof damage and interior water damage. Your insurance claim depends on this documentation. Time-stamped photos from your phone work perfectly.

4. Call Emergency Roofing Service

Search "emergency roof repair near me" or "24/7 roofing service." Many contractors offer after-hours emergency service. Be prepared to pay 50-100% more than standard rates—you're paying for immediate response when most roofers are closed. See our cost guide for comparison.

5. Temporary Protection

If safe and if you're able, place tarps over damaged areas from inside the attic to prevent further water damage while waiting for help. Don't attempt outdoor roof work yourself in an emergency—let professionals handle it. More on leak detection and temporary fixes.

Emergency roofers focus on damage control, not permanent repairs. Here's what they typically do during an after-hours emergency call:

Tarping & Temporary Protection

The primary goal is stopping active water infiltration. Contractors secure heavy-duty tarps over damaged areas, often using wood battens and screws for secure attachment. This buys you time until permanent repairs can happen in daylight and good weather.

Temporary Patches

For smaller emergencies, contractors may apply temporary patches using roofing cement, metal flashing, or emergency patch materials. These aren't permanent but stop immediate damage.

Debris Removal

If tree branches or debris are causing damage or blocking drainage, emergency crews remove them to prevent further problems.

Important: Emergency service is about stopping damage NOW. Permanent repairs come later, in daylight, with proper materials. Don't expect a complete fix during a 2am emergency call—expect competent damage control.