Emergency Roofing Guide: What to Do Before Help Arrives

When a storm howls through at midnight. When water starts to drip, then pour, from your ceiling. When shingles scatter like confetti across your yard. Roofing emergencies don’t wait for business hours, and neither do the questions racing through your mind.

At Gregory’s Custom Roofing, we know how overwhelming these moments can be. We’re here to help you steady the ship, protect your property, and guide you through what comes next.

Recognizing a Roofing Emergency 🛑

Not every leak or missing shingle is urgent. But some roofing problems can’t wait. Here’s how to spot a true emergency:

• Sudden leaks — Water pouring in, not just a slow drip.
• Visible holes — Tree limbs, flying debris, or hail punching through the roof.
• Sagging ceilings — A sign of trapped water and potential collapse.
• Structural damage — Cracks, bowing, or shifting in rafters or decking.
• Detached chimney flashing — Water running down chimney walls or pooling at the base.

Emergencies can include storm damage, fire, falling trees, or major leaks. Fast action can prevent further property loss or safety hazards.

Safety First—What Not to Do

Pause. Take a breath. Your safety and your family’s safety are the top priority.

• Don’t climb on the roof. Even if it looks stable, wet or damaged shingles can be as slick as ice.
• Don’t touch wet electrical wires or ceiling fixtures. Water and power are a dangerous mix.
• Don’t try to remove large debris alone. Wait for professional help if a tree limb or heavy object has fallen.
• Don’t ignore warning signs. Sagging ceilings or cracking noises mean get out and call for help.

If water is coming in near electrical outlets or fixtures, shut off power to that area at the breaker box (if it’s safe to do so). The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends avoiding flooded or wet electrical panels.

Temporary Fixes You Can Make

You can’t stop the storm, but you can slow the damage until help arrives.

• Place buckets or containers under active leaks. Protect floors and valuables.
• Move electronics and furniture out of harm’s way. Water spreads fast.
• Lay down towels or plastic sheets. Contain the spread of water.
• If you can safely access your attic, set a bucket underneath the leak point to catch drips.
• Use a tarp (if weather allows and you can do so safely). Only cover the area from the ground or a stable ladder—never risk a fall.

Photograph damage before and after any temporary repairs. Insurers and roofers will need a clear record.

When to Call a Pro

Some fixes are best left to those with harnesses, tools, and experience:

• Widespread leaks or visible holes
• Structural movement or collapse
• Water near electric lines or panels
• Missing chimney flashing or severe gutter damage
• Any situation where you feel unsafe

Call Gregory’s Custom Roofing for emergency roofing services. When you call, be ready to share:

• Your address and best contact number
• A description of the damage (leak, tree, blown-off shingles, etc.)
• When the issue started and if it’s getting worse
• Photos, if you can take them safely

What to Expect from Emergency Roofers

When our 24/7 team arrives, here’s how we help:

1. Safety check. We assess the area for hazards (electrical, structural, falling debris).
2. Damage inspection. Using tools and training, we evaluate the roof, attic, gutters, chimney flashing, and surrounding areas.
3. Temporary containment. We install tarps, sealants, or boards to stop further damage—always following Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.
4. Documentation. We record the damage for your insurance and our repair plan.
5. Next steps. We discuss options for permanent repairs, replacement, or insurance claims.

What’s Safe for Homeowners—and What Isn’t

It’s tempting to get hands-on. But some jobs are better left to those with the right gear and experience.

Safe:

• Placing buckets
• Moving valuables
• Shutting off breakers (if safe)
• Taking photos from inside

Not safe:

• Climbing on a wet or damaged roof
• Using power tools near water
• Removing large debris
• Applying sealants to steep slopes or near electrical lines

If you’re unsure, wait for our team.

Documenting Damage for Insurance

The more details you have, the smoother your claim will go. Here’s what to gather:

• Clear, time-stamped photos of all damage (roof, ceilings, personal items)
• A written list of affected rooms or belongings
• Notes on when you noticed the problem and how it progressed
• Receipts for emergency expenses (buckets, tarps, hotel stays)

The Insurance Information Institute recommends contacting your insurer as soon as possible and keeping all correspondence.

Types of Roofing Emergencies

Some problems need immediate attention. Here are the most common:

• Storm damage: High winds, hail, or debris tearing up shingles, flashing, or gutters.
• Major leaks: Water gushing through the ceiling or walls.
• Structural compromise: Collapsed roof sections, sagging decking, or shifting rafters.
• Chimney flashing failure: Water pouring in around the chimney—call for “Chimney Flashing near you.”
• Fire or impact damage: After a fire or a heavy object falls on the roof.

Emergency Roofing for Residential and Commercial Properties

Whether you own a home, manage an apartment building, or run a business, emergencies don’t discriminate. Gregory’s Custom Roofing handles:

• Residential homes (shingle, tile, metal, flat roofs)
• Apartment complexes
• Retail stores and offices
• New construction sites

We bring the right crew and materials for each property type.

Seasonal and Local Factors

Different seasons bring different headaches:

• Spring/Summer: Thunderstorms, hail, and wind-driven rain
• Fall: Clogged gutters and downspouts, wind-blown debris
• Winter: Ice dams, heavy snow, freeze-thaw cycles causing leaks

Regular inspections—especially before and after storm seasons—can help spot trouble before it turns into an emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast can Gregory’s get here in an emergency?
We offer 24/7 response. Arrival time depends on weather and distance, but we’ll update you every step.

Should I cover the roof myself?
Only if you can do so safely from the ground or a low, stable ladder. Never risk injury—let us handle the high places.

Will insurance cover emergency roofing?
Policies vary. Most cover sudden damage from storms or falling objects. Document everything. Speak with your insurer.

What info should I give when I call?
Your location, type of problem, when it started, if it’s getting worse, and safe photos if possible.

Prevention and Maintenance

Emergencies can’t always be avoided, but you can lower the risk:

• Schedule annual roof inspections and maintenance
• Clean gutters and downspouts each season
• Repair loose shingles, flashing, or seals before storms hit
• Trim overhanging tree branches
• Ask about eco-friendly options and preventative coatings

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) recommends annual inspections for all homes, and commercial properties may need more frequent checks.

Costs & Time Factors

Emergency roofing costs depend on:

• The type and extent of damage
• Roof type (shingle, tile, flat, metal)
• Materials needed for temporary repairs
• Accessibility and weather

Most emergency calls focus first on stopping further damage, then planning permanent repairs. Repairs may take anywhere from a couple of hours to several days, depending on weather and material availability.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait. Act Wisely.

Roofing emergencies are stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. Protect what matters most—your family, your home, your business. Take these first steps, then let professionals handle the dangerous work.

Call Gregory's Custom Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  888-991-2840 .