A leaky roof is every homeowner’s nightmare — and unfortunately, it usually strikes at the worst possible time. Whether it’s a slow drip or a full-on ceiling stain, knowing what to do when your roof starts leaking can prevent further damage and save you money in the long run.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take immediate action and get your roof professionally repaired.
Step 1: Contain the Leak Immediately
As soon as you notice a leak, your first move should be damage control. Grab a bucket, towel, or container to catch the water. If water is dripping onto furniture or flooring, move those items out of the way to avoid additional property damage.
Pro tip: If the ceiling is bulging, it might be holding water. Carefully puncture the lowest point of the bulge with a screwdriver to release the water in a controlled way — this can help prevent the ceiling from collapsing.
Step 2: How to Find the Source of a Leaky Roof
While it’s not always safe (or easy) to get on the roof yourself, you can try to identify the general area of the leak by checking your attic or crawl space. Look for:
- Damp insulation
- Water stains or mold
- Dripping along beams or nails
Knowing the leak’s origin can help your roofing contractor assess the damage more quickly.
Step 3: Who to Call When Your Roof Starts Leaking
The longer you wait, the worse a roof leak can get. That’s why it’s critical to call a licensed roofing contractor as soon as possible. At Vertical Solutions Roofing, we offer emergency roof repair services across Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, and Nebraska.
We provide free roof inspections and can quickly identify the cause of your roof leak — whether it’s from hail, storm damage, aging shingles, or flashing issues — and recommend the best solution.
Step 4: How to Document a Roof Leak for Insurance
Take photos of the leak, any visible water damage, and affected areas inside your home. This documentation will be useful if you decide to file a roof insurance claim, especially if the leak was caused by storm or hail damage.
Our team can also help you determine whether the repair is covered under your policy and walk you through the claim process.
Step 5: Schedule the Repair and Prevent Future Leaks
Once we’ve assessed the leak and given you a detailed estimate, we’ll get started on repairs right away. Depending on the severity, this could mean patching a section, replacing flashing, or doing a full roof replacement.
To prevent future issues, consider scheduling regular maintenance or a post-storm inspection. Many leaks start small — catching them early can save thousands in repairs.
If You’re Roof Starts Leaking, Don’t Ignore It — Call Vertical Solutions Roofing
If your roof starts leaking, time is critical. The faster you act, the better you can protect your home and prevent long-term damage. At Vertical Solutions Roofing, we’re here to help with fast, professional, and reliable service.
Serving Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, and Nebraska. Free estimates. Emergency service available.
Contact us today to schedule your inspection.