What to do with a leaking roof?

WHAT TO DO WITH A LEAKING ROOF?

Finding out in the middle of a rainstorm that you have a roof leak is a stressful experience, but taking the right steps to protect your home can help you remain calm and limit the damage. Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions with answers from roofing experts:

What should I do immediately if I discover a leaking roof during a rainstorm?

Follow these steps:

Start by Clearing the Interior Area

The first step is to clear the area of all furniture, electronics, and other possessions that could be damaged by rainwater. Create a perimeter of at least a couple of feet as there can be splashing.

Protect the Area and Collect Rainwater

Use whatever you can to cover the carpeting or hardwood floors, including tarps, painter’s plastic, or even towels if it’s all you have. The next step in what to do with a leaking roof is to collect every bucket, trash can, and other wide-mouthed containers you have and position them around the area to collect as much rain as possible. This is also a good time to go up into the attic with a flashlight and to see if there are similar precautions that you can take there.

Puncture the Ceiling If Necessary

If water is collecting above the ceiling to the point that the drywall is bulging, set up containers beneath the bulge and then pierce it with a long-bladed screwdriver or similar tool. The drywall already needs to be replaced and leaving it intact will allow the water to cause damage in a much wider area.

Clear drainage

If safe to do so, clear any debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage from the roof.

When should I contact a roofing contractor after discovering a leaking roof?

Contact a roofing contractor as soon as you discover a leaking roof. Prompt action is essential to prevent further damage and to address the issue before it escalates. Roof leaks can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and other costly issues if not addressed promptly. A qualified roofing contractor will conduct a thorough inspection, identify the source of the leak, and provide an estimate for repairs. Even if the weather conditions are not ideal for immediate repairs, a contractor can assess the situation and recommend temporary measures to prevent further damage until a complete repair can be performed.

Many roofing companies offer emergency services, and even if they can’t repair the roof right away due to the weather, they can tarp the roof and take other precautions that will mitigate the water intrusion.

What steps should I take with my homeowners insurance after a roof leak?

Most insurance companies have 24-hour hotlines. Call the hotline for your company. Tell them what has happened and begin the claim process. Contacting them tonight means that they should be able to have an appraiser out to your home in the morning.

After discovering a roof leak, follow these steps when dealing with your homeowners insurance:

• Document the damage: Take detailed photos and videos of the damaged areas, including the source of the leak and any affected belongings. This will provide evidence to the appraiser in case some of the damage has been repaired. Your roofer will likely do this automatically, but make sure they’re getting pictures on the roof and other areas to which you don’t have easy access.
• Contact your insurance company: Report the roof leak to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the documentation you have gathered and a detailed description of the incident.
• Schedule an adjuster inspection: Your insurance company may send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be sure to point out all areas affected by the leak during their inspection.
• Get repair estimates: Obtain written estimates from reputable roofing contractors for the necessary repairs. Share these estimates with your insurance company for their review.
• Understand your coverage: Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy and understand the coverage limits and deductibles. Ask your insurance provider about any specific requirements or procedures related to roof repairs.
• Keep records: Keep copies of all communication with your insurance company, including emails, claim forms, and estimates. This documentation will be valuable throughout the claims process.

By taking these steps, you can streamline the claims process and increase the likelihood of receiving fair compensation for the damages caused by the roof leak.

Victory Is Here to Help in New Jersey

If you’ve experienced a roof leak in your New Jersey home, contact Victory Home Remodeling for help. We are a highly experienced roofing contractor that performs precision roof repairs using the highest-quality materials. You can also call us at (888) 204-7510 if you have any additional questions about what to do with a leaking roof.