Emergency Roof Repairs: What to Do After a Storm

By How to Improve Energy Efficiency in Older Homes
Comments 35
25 Jun 2026

Emergency Roof Repairs: What to Do After a Storm

A storm can be frightening, and the damage it leaves behind on your roof is often the most worrying part. Whether it’s a few missing tiles, a leak in the loft, or a more serious structural issue, acting quickly and calmly will protect your home, your belongings and your insurance claim. Here’s a practical guide for UK homeowners on what to do after a storm.

First, make sure everyone is safe

Before you do anything else, check that no one is in immediate danger. If you can see water pouring through a ceiling light fitting or near electrical sockets, turn off the electricity at the consumer unit. Avoid switching anything on or off if you are standing in water. Move children and pets away from the affected area.

Do not be tempted to climb onto the roof yourself. Storm-damaged roofs are unpredictable: loose tiles, slates or sections of felt can give way without warning, and wet surfaces are extremely slippery. Falls from height are the leading cause of serious injury in home repair accidents. Leave any inspection above ground level to a qualified roofer.

From the ground, use binoculars to spot missing tiles, displaced ridge tiles, damaged flashing or sagging gutters.
Inside, check the loft with a torch for daylight, water stains on timbers or drips.
Note anything you find – you’ll need it for your insurer.

Document the damage for your insurer

Your insurer will want clear evidence. As soon as it is safe, photograph and video the damage from ground level and inside the loft. Capture wide shots and close-ups. Photograph any fallen debris, such as broken tiles.

Keep a written record: date, time, wind direction and when you noticed damage. Don’t throw away damaged materials – your insurer may want to see them. Keep receipts for emergency purchases like tarpaulins.

Contact your insurer promptly. Most have 24-hour emergency helplines. They can advise on approved contractors and confirm next steps. Don’t authorise permanent repairs before they agree, unless it’s just to make safe.

Arrange temporary weatherproofing

The priority now is to stop water getting in and prevent further damage. A professional roofer can secure a heavy-duty tarpaulin over the damaged area, replace a few missing tiles temporarily, or apply emergency sealant. If you cannot get a roofer immediately, your local council or a specialist emergency roofing firm may be able to help.

If you carry out minor temporary work from a ladder – only if safe and someone foots it – use a tarpaulin secured with ropes, not bricks. Never use gaffer tape on tiles or slates; it causes damage. For small leaks, use a bucket and old towels, but move valuables first.

Keep in mind that temporary repairs are just that. They are not a long-term solution, and they may only last a few weeks. Plan a full inspection and permanent repairs as soon as the weather allows and your insurer has approved the work.

Why you should not attempt DIY roof repairs

It’s natural to want to fix things yourself, but roofing is dangerous. UK working-at-height regulations are strict, and even a small roof is hazardous. You may lack access equipment, a harness or training. Ladders slip; wind gusts unbalance you.

You could also make damage worse: walking on a damaged roof cracks tiles, dislodges flashings and creates new leaks. A reputable roofer can assess safely and repair properly. A fall would cost far more than any saving.

Working with your insurance claim

After reporting, your insurer may send a loss adjuster. Be honest and thorough: provide photos, notes and receipts. If they recommend a contractor, you can usually get your own quotes, but check your policy – some require approved networks.

Keep a file of all correspondence, claim numbers and calls. For urgent temporary repairs, ask your insurer to confirm in writing they’ll cover the cost – most policies include emergency measures. Don’t sign anything from cold-calling contractors; rogue traders target storm-hit areas. Get three written quotes for permanent work.

Planning permanent repairs and future protection

Once your claim is underway, plan permanent repairs. Choose a roofer who is a member of a recognised trade association with references and insurance. Ask for a detailed specification, including materials, and a written guarantee. For older homes, matching original slates or tiles needs early discussion.

While repairs are done, consider storm straps or clips to secure tiles and slates, especially in exposed areas. Clear gutters and downpipes, and check flashing around chimneys and vents. These steps help when the next storm hits.

Finally, don’t rush. A calm, methodical approach – safety first, document everything, temporary repairs, then permanent work – will get your home back to normal with the least stress and the best chance of a smooth insurance claim.

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5 Comments

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- John Abraham says Jul 21, 2024 at 10:00am
  
  I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system
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  - Robert Sonnysays Jul 21, 2024 at 10:00am
    
    I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system
    Reply
Robert Sonny says Jul 21, 2024 at 10:00am

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Reply

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