A new leak after a storm is stressful. Follow these calm, practical steps to limit the damage, protect your home, and start the repair process the right way.
Protect the inside of your home first
The moment you notice water coming in, your first job is to limit interior damage. Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the drip, and place a bucket or container to catch the water. Lay down towels to protect flooring.
If you see a bulge or sagging spot in the ceiling, water is pooling above it. Carefully puncturing the center with a small screwdriver lets the water drain in a controlled way and can prevent a larger, sudden ceiling collapse. Keep a bucket underneath.
Document everything
Before you clean up, take clear photos and short videos of the damage. Capture the leak source if you can see it, water stains, damaged belongings, and any visible exterior damage from the ground. Note the date and the storm that caused it.
This documentation is important if you end up filing an insurance claim. Thorough, time-stamped records make the claim process smoother and help support a fair outcome.
Avoid risky roof climbs
A wet or storm-damaged roof is dangerous, and it is easy to make damage worse by walking on compromised areas. Resist the urge to climb up and inspect or patch the roof yourself, especially while weather is still active.
Leave the roof inspection to professionals with the right safety equipment. A trained crew can identify the true source of the leak, which is often not directly above where the water appears inside.
Call a roofing professional
Contact a licensed and insured roofing company to inspect the damage and stop the leak properly. A professional can provide temporary protection if needed and document the storm damage thoroughly for your records and any claim.
At 27 System, we provide free, no-pressure storm-damage inspections, document the damage with photos, and can coordinate directly with your insurance adjuster to support your claim from start to finish.
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