A bad storm can leave a roof with missing tiles, a damaged ridge or a leak. The first few hours matter, mainly for keeping everyone safe and stopping the damage from getting worse. Here is a sensible order of things to do.
Safety first
Stay off the roof and keep away from anything that looks unstable, such as a leaning chimney stack or loose tiles hanging at the edge. Fallen debris can be sharp, and loose masonry can still fall. If there is a risk to people, keep them clear of the area. If a power line or cable is damaged, treat it as dangerous and report it.
Look from the ground
Once the weather has calmed, check the roof from the ground. Binoculars help. Look for missing or broken tiles, a displaced ridge, lifted flashings and damaged gutters. Check inside the loft, if it is safe, for daylight coming through or signs of water.
Photograph everything
Take clear photographs of the damage and of any fallen debris, and note the date. If you intend to claim on your insurance, these are useful records. Keep damaged pieces until your insurer has had the chance to see them, if they ask.
Limit the water
If water is coming in, put buckets under drips, move furniture and move valuables, and use towels to stop it spreading. If a ceiling is bulging or sagging with water, keep people out from underneath it and call for help, because it can come down without warning.
Call a roofer
A roofer can make the roof safe and weatherproof, for example with a temporary cover, and then tell you what permanent repair is needed. Contact your insurer too, as they may have conditions about repairs.
For storm repairs, see our Storm Damage Roof Repairs section or call 07766 547309.
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