Storms in New England can strike fast and leave serious damage in their wake. Whether it’s a tree limb crashing through your attic or shingles torn off by high winds, a roofing emergency demands immediate attention. Knowing what to do in the hours and days following a storm can make a big difference in preventing further damage and protecting your investment.
This guide walks you through how to respond to a roofing emergency after a storm, step by step.
What Is a Roofing Emergency?
A roofing emergency is any storm-related damage that compromises the structure or waterproofing of your roof and requires urgent repair. This may include:
- Tree or branch impact
- Major leaks or water intrusion
- Missing shingles or roofing materials
- Collapsed roof sections
- Exposed underlayment or decking
- Ice damming and sudden interior leaks
Even small problems can escalate quickly if water enters your home, insulation gets soaked, or mold starts to form.
Step 1: Stay Safe and Assess from the Ground
After the storm passes and it’s safe to go outside:
- Visually assess your home’s exterior from the ground
- Look for shingles on the lawn or driveway
- Check for tree limbs or debris on the roof
- Look inside your attic or top-floor ceilings for leaks or moisture
- Avoid climbing on the roof—it may be unstable or slippery
Important: If you suspect electrical damage, contact your utility provider and stay away from affected areas.
Step 2: Prevent Further Water Intrusion
If water is entering your home:
- Place buckets, towels, or tarps under leaks to contain damage
- Move electronics, furniture, and valuables out of harm’s way
- If possible, cover the damaged area of the roof with a tarp (or request emergency tarp service from a roofer)
Tip: Tarping is a temporary solution but buys you time to make permanent repairs and file insurance claims.
Step 3: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Take clear photos and notes of:
- Exterior roof damage (from the ground)
- Missing shingles, visible holes, or collapsed areas
- Interior damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, or attic
- Water trails or pooling
This documentation will be helpful for both your insurance adjuster and your roofing contractor.
Learn how preparation helps in How to Prepare Your Roof for Hurricane Season.
Step 4: Contact a Local, Licensed Roofing Contractor
Reach out to a trusted, local roofer as soon as possible. Emergency roofing services often include:
- Same-day tarp installation
- Leak control and interior protection
- Inspection and damage assessment
- Written repair estimates
Why choose a local contractor?
- Faster response time
- Familiarity with local weather conditions and building codes
- Less risk of storm-chasing scams
For licensed help, explore Our Residential Roofing Services
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover storm-related roof damage, especially from wind, hail, or fallen debris.
To file a claim:
- Call your provider as soon as possible
- Provide photos and documentation
- Get a claim number and schedule an adjuster visit
- Keep all receipts for emergency work or temporary repairs
Tip: Ask your roofer to meet with the adjuster to ensure accurate assessment and repair scope.
Step 6: Schedule Repairs Promptly
Once your claim is approved (or if you’re covering it out-of-pocket), schedule full repairs or replacement quickly to avoid:
- Additional structural damage
- Mold growth from trapped moisture
- Voiding warranties due to delays
Not all damage is visible at first—have your contractor inspect underlayment, decking, and attic insulation to ensure a complete fix.
How to Avoid Roofing Scams After a Storm
Unfortunately, post-storm damage often attracts dishonest contractors or “storm chasers” from out of town.
Warning signs of a scam:
- Demands for full payment upfront
- No physical address or online presence
- No license or insurance
- High-pressure tactics or unverified “claims specialists”
Always verify:
- Proof of insurance and licensing
- Written contract with scope of work and timeline
- Local references or reviews
Learn how to protect yourself in How to Choose the Best Roofing Contractor Near You.
Prevent Future Damage: Plan Ahead
Once your roof is repaired or replaced, ask your contractor about upgrades to reduce future storm damage:
- Impact-resistant shingles
- Reinforced flashing and vent covers
- Hurricane-rated fasteners or clips
- Ice and water shield membranes
- Routine maintenance programs
How Liberty Roof Co. Responds to Storm Damage
Our storm response team provides fast, reliable emergency services throughout Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts. We offer:
- 24/7 emergency tarp service
- Free storm damage inspections
- Insurance documentation support
- Permanent repairs and full replacements
- Long-term warranties and follow-up care
Meet our storm damage experts
Get a storm damage quote
Fast Action Matters—We’re Ready to Help
If you suspect roof damage after a storm, don’t wait. Fast action limits damage, protects your home, and strengthens your insurance claim.
