A roof opened by a storm
Gas smell, sparking, or anyone hurt: leave and call 911.
What to do safely from inside and from the ground when a storm has damaged or opened your roof.
Before you start
- Do not climb onto the roof. A wet or damaged roof can be slippery and may not hold your weight.
- Stay at least 35 feet away from any downed power line and anything touching it. Call 911.
- If a ceiling is sagging, a tree is on the house, or walls have shifted, get everyone out and call 911.
- If water is near outlets, lights or the electrical panel, stay away from it and call your electric utility.
Steps
- Wait until the storm has passed before going outside.
- Look at the roof from the ground only. Stay away from overhead lines, hanging branches and loose debris.
- Do not put a ladder against the house.
- Inside, stay out from under any ceiling that is sagging or dripping heavily.
- In rooms that are safe, put buckets under drips and move belongings to a dry spot.
- Call a roofing or restoration professional and ask for an emergency tarp.
After
- Take photos from the ground and from safe rooms inside.
- Write down the date and time of the storm and when you found the damage.
- Call your insurance carrier using its own number. Ask what they need before temporary repairs.
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Script version a32b55e21157 · approved 2026-10-22