Emergency Roof Repair: What to Do Right After a Storm?

Emergency Roof Repair: What to Do Right After a Storm?

In Austin, storms can roll in fast and do serious damage to your home—especially your roof. Whether it’s strong winds, hail, or heavy rain, roof damage often happens when you least expect it. Knowing what to do immediately after the storm passes can make a big difference in protecting your home and avoiding costly repairs down the line.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your roof has been damaged during a storm.

1. Ensure Your Safety First.

Before you check for any roof damage, make sure it’s safe to go outside. Look out for:

• Downed power lines
• Broken glass or debris
• Structural damage to walls or ceilings

⚠️ Important: If there’s a risk your home has been structurally compromised, stay out and contact emergency services.

2. Inspect the Roof from the Ground.

Don’t climb onto the roof right after a storm—it can be dangerous and unstable. Instead, walk around your property and look for signs of damage from the ground:

• Missing shingles or tiles
• Bent or broken flashing around chimneys and vents
• Tree limbs or other debris on the roof
• Sagging or uneven areas
• Water stains on ceilings or walls inside your home

Take photos of any visible damage. These will be useful when filing an insurance claim and when speaking to roofing professionals.

3. Prevent Further Damage.

If your roof is actively leaking or open to the elements, take temporary steps to protect the inside of your home:

• Place buckets or containers under leaks
• Cover furniture or electronics with plastic tarps
• If safe and dry to access, place a tarp over the damaged part of the roof from inside the attic

Temporary fixes won’t solve the problem, but they can prevent water damage from spreading until a professional arrives.

4. Contact a Trusted Roofing Contractor Immediately.

In storm situations, time is critical. Contact a licensed, local roofing contractor in Austin who offers emergency repair services. Reputable roofers can:

• Perform a full inspection
• Provide a temporary fix or tarp to prevent further damage
• Give you a written estimate for permanent repairs

Avoid storm chasers—out-of-town companies that show up after severe weather, often offering quick, cheap fixes that don’t last. Always verify credentials, read reviews, and choose someone who knows the Austin area.

5. File an Insurance Claim (If Needed).

If the damage is significant, contact your homeowner’s insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Here’s what to do:

• Share photos and a detailed description of the damage
• Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary fixes
• Ask your roofer to document damage with their own report

A good roofing contractor can also help guide you through the insurance process and even meet with the adjuster on-site.

6. Schedule Permanent Repairs Quickly.

Once your insurance claim is approved (if applicable), schedule the necessary repairs or full replacement as soon as possible. Waiting too long can lead to further damage, especially in Texas where the weather can change quickly.

Make sure your contractor:

• Uses quality materials
• Offers a warranty on both labor and materials
• Provides a clear timeline and cost estimate

7. Prevent Future Storm Damage.

While you can’t control the weather, you can prepare your roof for the next big storm. Ask your roofer about:

• Impact-resistant shingles
• Improved flashing and sealing
• Regular maintenance to catch issues early

A strong, well-maintained roof will stand up better to Austin’s harsh weather and help avoid costly emergencies in the future.

Final Thoughts:

Storm damage to your roof can be stressful—but taking quick, informed action can save you time, money, and more serious repairs. Start with safety, document the damage, and call a trusted local roofer who can respond fast and get the job done right.

✅ Need Emergency Roof Repairs in Austin?

Don’t wait—our network of licensed and trusted roofing professionals is ready to help 24/7. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full roof replacement, we’ll connect you with a pro who can get your home back to normal—fast.

👉 Click here to request emergency service now