Do These Things Right Now
- Move valuables away from the leak. Furniture, electronics, documents — anything that can be damaged by water. Don't wait.
- Contain the water. Buckets, towels, plastic sheeting. Not glamorous, but it limits secondary damage while you get help.
- Photograph everything. Take photos of interior damage and safely from the ground outside before anyone touches anything. You'll need this for your insurance claim.
- Call your insurance company. Open a claim now. The sooner you report, the faster an adjuster is assigned. Don't wait until after repairs.
- Request emergency help. Use the form below. Note it's urgent and describe what happened — water actively coming in, tree contact, large area of missing shingles. Contractors prioritize based on urgency described.
What Emergency Repairs Look Like
Emergency roof repair usually means two phases:
Phase 1 — Stop the bleeding: Emergency tarping or temporary patching to stop active water intrusion. This can often be done same-day. It's not permanent but it protects the interior while a full assessment and permanent repair is scheduled.
Phase 2 — Permanent repair: After the adjuster inspects (if it's an insurance claim) or after you've gotten written estimates, the permanent repair or replacement is done. This is where you want multiple written quotes and verified contractor credentials.
Emergency Roof Repair Cost
Emergency tarping typically runs $300–$1,000 depending on roof size and urgency. This cost is usually covered by homeowners insurance if the damage was storm-related.
Permanent emergency repairs vary widely — see our Roof Repair Cost Guide for full ranges by repair type.
Insurance Claims for Emergency Roof Damage
- Document before any work starts — photos and video of all visible damage
- Call your insurer to open a claim before permanent repairs begin
- Emergency tarping is typically covered as "mitigation" — save the receipt
- Do not let a contractor start permanent work until the adjuster has inspected, unless you're paying out of pocket
- Get the claim number — it's your reference for all future calls
Full guide: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Damage?
Find Emergency Roof Repair in Your City
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a roofing emergency?
Active water intrusion, tree contact, large missing shingle sections after a storm, and visible structural damage all qualify. If water is getting in, it's an emergency.
Can I fix it myself temporarily?
For minor leaks, a roof tarp secured at the ridge and weighted at the edges can buy time. But get a professional assessment — what looks minor often isn't. Tarping incorrectly can void insurance coverage for temporary repairs.
How do I find a contractor available today?
Submit a request using the form on this page and mark it as urgent. Most local contractors prioritize emergency calls — describe the situation clearly so they can come prepared.