Emergency Flat Roof Repairs: What to Do When Your Roof Leaks

A flat roof leak can cause significant damage to your property very quickly. Knowing what to do while waiting for professional repairs can help you limit water damage and protect your belongings.

Immediate Steps

• Move valuables and furniture away from the affected area
• Place buckets or towels to catch dripping water
• Take photographs of the damage for insurance purposes
• If safe to do so, clear any obvious blockages from roof drains or gutters
• Call a professional roofer immediately — don't delay

Temporary Measures

Temporary repairs can help prevent further water ingress while you wait for professional attention. Roofing tape applied to visible cracks can offer short-term protection. However, temporary repairs should never be seen as a substitute for professional work.

Never Go on the Roof in Wet or Icy Conditions

It can be tempting to investigate a leak yourself, but wet or icy flat roofs are extremely slippery. Every year, people are seriously injured falling from flat roofs. Leave roof access to professional roofers with appropriate safety equipment.

What to Expect from an Emergency Call-Out

When our team arrives for an emergency repair, we'll first locate the source of the leak (which isn't always directly above where the water appears inside), make the roof watertight, and advise on permanent repair options. We aim to respond quickly to emergency calls.

Insurance Claims

Document all damage thoroughly with photographs before cleaning up. Most home insurance policies cover sudden roof leaks, but not gradual deterioration. Keep all receipts for emergency repairs and temporary measures.