Storm Damage to Your Roof? Do These 5 Things First
Sydney storms are intense, and roof damage is common. Acting in the right order prevents further water damage to your home and makes your insurance claim smoother. Here's exactly what to do.
1. Stay safe
Don't climb onto a damaged roof — it may be unstable, especially after heavy rain. Stay clear of fallen power lines and report them to your electricity provider immediately. If there's any risk of structural collapse, evacuate the affected rooms.
2. Contain the water
Place buckets under leaks and move valuables, electronics and furniture out of the way. If it's safe to do so, a temporary tarp over the damaged area can dramatically limit interior damage — many roofers offer emergency tarping services.
3. Document everything
Take clear photos and video of the damage before anything is moved, cleaned up or repaired. You'll need this evidence for your insurance claim. Photograph both the outside damage and any water damage inside.
4. Contact your insurer
Notify your home insurer as soon as possible — most policies have time limits for storm claims. Ask specifically whether temporary repairs are covered before you book any work, and keep receipts.
5. Call a licensed roofer
Get emergency repairs from a licensed, insured roofer — not a door-knocker who appears after the storm. Confirm their licence and insurance before any work begins, and get the quote in writing.
What NOT to do
- Don't attempt DIY roof repairs in wet or windy conditions.
- Don't pay large cash deposits to unknown "storm chasers".
- Don't throw away damaged materials until your insurer has assessed them.
- Don't delay — small leaks turn into major damage quickly.
Prepare before storm season
- Clear gutters and downpipes so water drains fast
- Trim overhanging branches that could fall on the roof
- Check and replace any loose or cracked tiles
- Know where your water, gas and electricity shut-offs are
Insurance claim tips
- Report the claim promptly — most insurers require notification within days
- Keep all photos, videos and receipts for temporary repairs
- Get written quotes before permanent repairs begin
- Don't sign anything with a contractor until your insurer approves the scope
Safe temporary fixes you can do
If you can reach the area safely, a heavy-duty tarp secured over the damage is the single best temporary measure — it stops most water while you wait for repairs. Indoors, move furniture away, put down buckets, and if a ceiling is bulging with water, carefully poke a small hole to let it drain rather than letting the whole ceiling collapse. Never go onto a wet or storm-damaged roof yourself.
After the storm: getting back to normal
Once the immediate danger has passed, book a full inspection even if the damage looks minor — hail and wind can cause hairline cracks that leak weeks later. Keep your receipts and photos, follow up with your insurer, and get permanent repairs done by a licensed roofer as soon as practical so a small crack doesn't turn into a ceiling collapse next downpour.
Dealing with storm damage? Request urgent quotes from verified Sydney roofers now.