Spring storm season is around the corner and so are the roofing emergencies that require immediate attention.
Should sudden storm damage happen, homeowners will need to contact an emergency roofing repair contractor to quickly inspect and repair the damage.
Before they do, emergency roof repair services recommend that homeowners take a deep breath, try to remain calm, and use these tips on how to handle the situation to stay safe and facilitate quick repairs.
1. Assess Any Safety Concerns First
When the need for emergency roof repairs arises due to unexpected storm damage, the first and most important thing that homeowners must do is assess the safety of their home.
If the damage is such that structural components are involved, electrical or gas service is affected, or any other safety issues exist, evacuate the home of all residents as well as pets and then call the appropriate utility or rescue authorities.
2. Estimate The Type and Degree of Damage Present
If it can be done safely, emergency roofing repair contractors suggest that homeowners carefully inspect their damage, taking pictures or videos if possible to assist in the assessment and repair process.
This basic inspection and documentation will help insurance companies and emergency repair services get an idea of the scope of the damage, how serious it is, and how urgently attention is needed to prevent additional damage.
3. Contact The Homeowners Insurance Company
Next, homeowners should contact their homeowner’s insurance company to report the damage to get the assessment and repair process started.
Provide any photos or videos of the damage, then follow their instructions on whether an emergency roof repair contractor can be called right away or if their adjuster must view the damage first.
They will also advise whether they have specific contractors who can handle the damage or if a homeowner can contact one on their own if they already have someone in mind.
4. Minimize Additional Damage
After informing the insurance company of the damage, take steps to minimize additional damage if possible, as it may be a few days before emergency roofing repair contractors can start their repairs.
Remove as many personal belongings from areas of damage as possible, cover floors and furnishings with plastic, and use buckets to contain leaks entering through the attic or ceilings.
5. Contact An Emergency Roof Repair Contractor
Finally, once any safety issues have been handled, the insurance company has been notified, and any immediate additional damage has been prevented, homeowners can arrange for roofing services.
At this point, a local emergency roof repair service can be contacted to set up a time for them to come to the home, assess the damages, and create a repair plan with the homeowner and their insurance company.
6. Start Preparing For Emergency Roof Repair Services
Last of all, after repair arrangements are made, homeowners should work ahead to clear out all parts of the home and yard that emergency roof repair contractors will need access to for them to start their work.
The sooner these areas are cleared out, the fewer delays there will be in getting repairs made.
Call An Emergency Roofer When Storm Damage Occurs
Roofing storm damage can happen when homeowners least expect it.
When it does, knowing when to call an emergency roofing repair contractor and what to do before that can save time as well as confusion and ensure fast repairs.
Find a local contractor today who offers fast emergency roof repair services in their community and keep their number handy just in case, so there is no trouble finding the right roofer!