Who do I call for an emergency roof leak?
For an active roof leak, call a local roofing contractor — most offer same-day emergency tarping for $200 – $500. That tarp buys time until a permanent repair ($400 – $1,500) can be scheduled. Do not wait.
A tarp job is not a permanent fix — it stops immediate water intrusion while you get a proper estimate. The $200–$500 tarp cost is usually worth it to avoid $5,000+ in drywall, insulation, and mold remediation.
What counts as a roofing emergency?
| Cause | How to tell | The fix | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active water entering the living space | Dripping or running water from the ceiling, a wet ceiling that is bulging, or a ceiling light fixture with water in it | Call same day — tarp the roof immediately; puncture a bulging ceiling in the center to release standing water before it collapses | $200 – $500 tarp; $400 – $1,500 permanent repair |
| Daylight visible through the roof deck | You can see sky from inside the attic — a hole, structural gap, or fully missing section of decking | Emergency tarp immediately; full structural assessment before permanent repair | $200 – $500 tarp; $1,000 – $5,000+ for structural repair |
| Tree impact or large debris | A limb or branch has punched through shingles or cracked the decking; visible damage from the ground | Tarp the breach; document thoroughly for homeowners insurance (tree damage is almost always covered) | $200 – $500 tarp; insurance typically covers the repair |
| Major storm shingle loss | Multiple shingles blown off in a wind or hail event; large patches of felt paper or bare decking exposed | Tarp exposed areas; get a contractor to document before filing insurance — do not let a storm chaser handle your claim | $200 – $500 tarp; $1,500 – $10,000+ depending on coverage area |
| Chimney or flashing gap opened suddenly | Sudden leak directly below a chimney after a storm; mortar cap cracked off or cap blown away | Tarp the chimney area; schedule flashing repair within days | $200 – $500 tarp; $400 – $1,200 flashing repair |
Do this while you wait for the roofer
- Move furniture, electronics, and valuables out from under the leak. Place buckets and lay down plastic sheeting — water spreads far beyond where it first drips.
- If the ceiling is bulging and sagging, carefully poke a small hole in the lowest point to let water drain into a bucket. This prevents a full ceiling collapse.
- Take photos and video of everything — ceiling stains, water entry, any visible roof damage from the ground. Your insurance adjuster will want timestamped documentation.
- Do not climb onto a wet roof yourself. It is not worth the risk — call a roofer who has the equipment and experience to work safely.
What to tell the roofer when you call
- Tell them you need emergency service — most companies keep a tarping crew available for same-day calls
- Describe what you can see: is it dripping, running, or a ceiling bulge? Is there visible exterior damage?
- Ask what the tarp job costs and whether it gets applied to the permanent repair estimate — most reputable roofers do credit it
- If it's storm damage, ask them to document the damage for your insurance claim before they cover anything
Tarp job vs. permanent repair: what's the difference?
A tarp is an emergency stop-gap — it protects the interior while you get proper bids. A permanent repair addresses the actual source (flashing, boot, missing shingles) and should last years. Never accept a tarp job as the final resolution, and be cautious of storm-chaser crews who show up unsolicited after bad weather, demand full upfront payment, or ask you to sign over your insurance benefits (AOB — assignment of benefits). A legitimate roofer will give you a written estimate before starting permanent work.
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Related questions
Do roofers really come out same day for emergencies?
Most local roofing companies offer same-day tarping for active leaks — especially after storms when the phones are ringing. Call early in the day if you can. After a major regional storm, same-day slots fill fast; ask for first-available if they're booked.
How much does emergency roof tarping cost?
Typically $200 – $500 for a standard residential tarp. Larger roofs, steep pitches, or second-story work can push it higher. Many roofers credit the tarp cost toward the permanent repair.
Will my homeowners insurance cover an emergency roof leak?
If the leak was caused by a sudden event — storm, hail, wind, falling tree — your insurance very likely covers it. Gradual deterioration or lack of maintenance is usually excluded. Document before anyone touches the roof, and call your insurance company to open a claim while you wait for the roofer.
How do I know if a roofing contractor is legitimate after a storm?
Legitimate roofers don't knock on doors immediately after storms. Red flags: demands for full upfront payment, pressure to sign anything before you get a written estimate, or requests to sign over your insurance benefits. Ask for a license number, check reviews, and get two bids before committing.