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The Roof Emergency Checklist: What to Do in the First 15 Minutes

Damage to roof on house from storm

Why You Should Never Ignore That Missing Shingle

When a roof emergency strikes whether from storm damage, fallen debris, or a sudden leak—the
first 15 minutes are crucial. Taking immediate action can minimize damage, prevent hazards, and speed up insurance claims. Therefore, this checklist outlines the critical steps homeowners should take in those first moments. Although panic is natural, staying calm and focused can make all the difference when the unexpected occurs.

Ensure Safety First

Before doing anything else, ensure everyone in the home is safe. If there are electrical risks,
leaking ceilings, or exposed wiring, shut off power to the affected area immediately.
Additionally, avoid standing water and stay out of rooms where the ceiling is bulging. Always prioritize people over property. According to FEMA (2023), most injuries during water intrusion events occur within the first 30 minutes, typically due to electrical contact or structural collapse. Furthermore, never attempt to investigate a roof breach during a storm, as wind and rain increase
the danger.

Contain the Damage

Next, if it is safe to do so, try to contain water damage using buckets, tarps, or towels. For
instance, move valuables away from leak zones and place plastic sheeting over furniture to
protect it. These simple steps buy valuable time until professional help arrives. Additionally, using a tarp over a roof hole can limit water penetration. As noted by Delgado and Ojeda (2021),
early containment can reduce restoration costs by up to 40%. Even if your actions are temporary, they can help prevent long-term damage to drywall, flooring, and insulation.

Document the Damage

Once you have stabilized the situation, begin documenting all visible damage with clear photos
and videos. Include shots of both interior and exterior issues. Moreover, take close-ups and wide-
angle views to provide full context for your insurance adjuster and repair contractor. Be thorough but safe—avoid climbing on the roof. A licensed professional should always handle roof inspection. According to the Insurance Information Institute (2022), early and detailed documentation can significantly speed up claim approvals. Therefore, do not delay this step.

Call a Roofing Professional

At this point, contact a licensed roofing contractor who offers emergency services.
24HourRoofingPros.com, for example, provides same-day response and temporary fixes to
prevent further damage. Be prepared to explain what you observed, whether the leak is still
active, and any access limitations you may encounter. Moreover, contractors can often tarp the
area and return for complete repairs after an inspection has been conducted. Prompt action at this stage is crucial. Otherwise, minor problems can escalate into structural issues, mold, or insurance complications.

Notify Your Insurance Provider

Even if you are uncertain about filing a claim, notify your insurer as soon as possible. Many
homeowners’ policies require prompt reporting of any potential loss. Additionally, ask what
documentation they require and whether they recommend any specific vendors. Some insurance
companies have partnerships with roofing firms, which can streamline repairs and billing. Smith and Walters (2022) note that early contact with insurers leads to improved claim response times. Regardless, having professional documentation and communication ensures a smoother resolution.

Monitor for Additional Damage

Over the next few days, continue monitoring the area for signs of worsening damage. For example, check ceilings, walls, and floors for discoloration or warping. Also, look for soft spots
underfoot or new leaks after rain. Mold can begin growing in damp areas within 24 to 48 hours.
If problems persist, alert your contractor and adjuster. In the meantime, keep records of all repair work, contractor estimates, and receipts for any temporary materials or services used.

Prepare for Restoration

While emergency repairs stabilize your home, the long-term restoration process may involve
replacing shingles, drywall, insulation, or roofing materials. Thus, work with your contractor to
schedule a full inspection and repair timeline. Clarify warranty terms and request a written
estimate. This step not only ensures transparency but also helps you budget for any out-of-pocket expenses not covered by insurance. Additionally, consider upgrading materials to more durable or weather-resistant options if feasible.

Flat roof tile house

Prevent Future Emergencies

Finally, use this experience to improve your roof’s future resilience. Schedule annual
inspections, clean your gutters, and trim overhanging trees. Moreover, ask your contractor about impact-resistant shingles or underlayment upgrades. Prevention is often less expensive than restoration. By investing in regular maintenance and utilizing modern materials, you can minimize the likelihood of future leaks, particularly during seasonal storms. Ultimately, being proactive pays off in both peace of mind and property value.

In conclusion, a roof emergency does not have to turn into a disaster if you act quickly and
wisely. By following this checklist within the first 15 minutes ensuring safety, containing
damage, documenting issues, contacting professionals, and alerting insurance—you will be well-prepared to minimize the impact and expedite the recovery. Although the situation may be
stressful, taking calm, informed steps can save thousands in repairs and reduce risk. Therefore, every homeowner should have a roof emergency plan—and keep the number for
24HourRoofingPros.com readily available.

Arizona homeowners, landlords, and property managers facing roof leaks or roof damage, can
count on our licensed experts for a fast, dependable response. We’re available 24/7 to restore your roof efficiently—while also guiding you through the insurance process with confidence.

Call Our Dispatch Service Today (602) 661-1153

References :

Delgado, R., & Ojeda, M. (2021). Emergency mitigation strategies in residential structures.
Journal of Property Risk, 8(2), 55-67.

FEMA. (2023). Flood and Roof Safety: Homeowner Guidance. https://www.fema.gov/fact-
sheet/roof-leaks

Insurance Information Institute. (2022). How to file a roof damage insurance claim.
https://www.iii.org/article/facts-about-homeowners-insurance

Smith, L., & Walters, J. (2022). Insurance compliance and emergency repairs. Journal of Risk
Management, 14(3), 112–120.

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