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What do I do if I have a roof leak after a major storm?

Dealing with a roof leak after a major storm is one of those problems that can catch even the most prepared property manager off guard. It’s frustrating, disruptive, and often confusing to figure out what to do next—especially when water is dripping inside your building or staining ceiling tiles. At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve been helping commercial property owners and managers navigate storm damage for over 40 years, and we understand how overwhelming this situation can feel. 

Let’s break down what you should do right away, what to avoid, and how to protect your roof investment moving forward. 

What’s the first thing I should do when I notice a roof leak?

Safety first. If there’s active water leaking inside, make sure to keep people away from that area. Quickly move furniture, electronics, and other valuables away from the leak to prevent water damage, and use plastic coverings for items that can’t be relocated. Electrical hazards and ceiling collapse risks are very real. 

Next, contain the water if you can. Place buckets, trash bins, or even mop buckets under the leak to minimize interior damage. Move equipment, furniture, and documents out of harm’s way. If you notice bulging in the ceiling due to water accumulation, carefully puncture the center of the bulge to release the water. This can prevent a potential ceiling collapse. Ensure you have a container ready to catch the released water. 

Take photos or videos of the leak and any visible damage, both inside and out. These images are useful for insurance claims and for your roofing contractor to assess the situation quickly. 

Finally, call a trusted commercial roofing contractor right away. This isn’t the time to wait and see if it gets worse. Even if the rain has stopped, the damage could be growing inside your roof system. 

Can I patch the roof myself to stop the leak?

It’s tempting to try a quick fix—but commercial roofs are more complex than they look. Attempting a DIY repair, especially with roofing cement or tarps, can lead to bigger issues. Many times, we’ve been called out to repair what was supposed to be a temporary fix, only to find that it caused more water to get under the roof membrane. 

Also, some warranty agreements can be voided if unapproved repairs are made. 

If you need emergency roof repair after a storm, call professionals who are experienced in flat roofs, membrane systems, and other commercial roofing types. At Weather Shield, we respond quickly and know how to stabilize the roof without making the situation worse. 

Should I call my insurance company right away?

Yes—but only after you’ve documented the damage and contacted your roofer. 

Your roofing contractor can help assess how serious the storm damage is, and in many cases, they’ll help you document it correctly for your insurance company. This is especially helpful for commercial property owners trying to avoid claim denials or delays. 

We always recommend reviewing your policy ahead of time (if possible) so you know what’s covered, including emergency roof repairs, water damage mitigation, and business interruption. 

How do I know if the leak caused serious damage?

That’s the tricky part: not all damage is visible right away. 

Even a small leak can soak insulation, damage the roof deck, or promote hidden mold growth over time. A trained roofing contractor can inspect not just the leak but the surrounding areas for soft spots, membrane punctures, flashing separation, or clogged drains that may have contributed to the problem. 

We use moisture detection tools and infrared scans when needed to see beneath the surface. The goal isn’t just to stop today’s leak—but to make sure there’s no hidden roof damage that will cost you more later. 

Can I wait a few days to schedule roof repairs?

We get it. When a storm hits an entire region, roofing contractors get booked fast. But even if the rain stops, your roof problem isn’t on pause. 

Water can remain trapped under your roof membrane or inside insulation for weeks, spreading damage the whole time. Mold can start growing in 24–48 hours. Delaying repairs could turn a manageable leak into a full roof replacement situation. 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we prioritize storm-related leaks because we know time matters. We also offer 24/7 emergency services while waiting for full repairs. 

What if this keeps happening—can roof leaks be prevented?

If your building has had more than one roof leak in the past year, or if you’ve had to do emergency roof repair multiple times, it’s time to ask a bigger question: What’s the long-term plan for this roof? 

Many commercial roofs leak after storms because of aging materials, clogged drainage, or poor previous workmanship. These issues can’t always be solved with a patch. 

That’s why we offer Max Life Roof Care, our proactive commercial roof maintenance program. It includes regular inspections, drain cleaning, membrane condition tracking, and early detection of issues before they become emergencies. In fact, many of our clients cut their emergency roof repair calls down by over 70% after starting with Max Life. 

Is it going to cost a lot to repair the roof leak?

The honest answer: it depends. 

Small leaks from a puncture or flashing lift might only cost a few hundred dollars to fix. But if the insulation is soaked, the deck is damaged, or multiple areas are leaking, it could climb into the thousands. 

The best way to protect your roof investment is to act quickly and get an honest inspection. A reputable roofing contractor won’t try to upsell you on a full replacement if it’s not needed. At Weather Shield, we provide photos, clear explanations, and straightforward pricing for all repair recommendations. 

We also work with your budget and can offer phased repair plans if needed. 

How can I make sure this doesn’t happen again with the next storm?

Here’s what we recommend for long-term storm readiness: 

• Schedule a roof inspection at least twice a year—especially before and after storm seasons. 

• Make sure all roof drains and gutters are clear. 

• Enroll in a roof maintenance program like Max Life Roof Care to extend the roof’s lifespan. 

• Keep updated records of roof work, warranties, and inspections for insurance and repair planning. 

• Partner with a commercial roofing company that offers emergency response and knows your building. 

Storms will always be unpredictable. But with the right preparation and a trusted team, your roof can be the most reliable part of your building, not the biggest headache. 

If you’ve just experienced a roof leak—or if you’re trying to plan ahead for future storms—Weather Shield Roofing Systems is here to help. For over four decades, we’ve been providing commercial roofing solutions built on trust, transparency, and long-term protection. If you need honest answers, fast repairs, or just a second opinion, reach out to us today. 

Jordan Hester

Digital Marketing Strategist

Jordan Hester is a marketing and digital media professional with over five years of experience in strategy, visual media, and web design. A 2019 graduate of Hanover College, Jordan studied Art + Design and Business, blending creative vision with strategic thinking. In addition to expertise in marketing and digital strategy, Jordan brings extensive hands-on experience in photography, videography, and content creation—crafting compelling visuals and campaigns that engage and inspire.