Document before you clean up
The reflex is to mop up right away. Take two minutes to photograph first. Once the roof leak is under control and the room is dry, there will not be much left to show.
- Photograph and film every affected room, wide shots first, then close-ups.
- Show the ceilings, walls, floors and damaged belongings.
- Note the date, the time and the weather at that moment.
- Make a list of the damaged items.
- Keep the damaged materials and belongings until your insurer tells you what to do with them.
- Keep every receipt, including the temporary repair, equipment rental and cleaning.
Notify the insurer
Call your insurer or your broker as soon as possible. Do not wait to know the exact cause or the full extent of the damage.
What an insurance policy covers varies from one contract to another. The cause of the water entry, the condition of the roof and the coverage you chose can all come into play. Only your policy and your insurer can answer. Reread your policy and ask your questions in writing when you can.
Limit the damage inside
Water does its worst damage after the leak, when it stays in the materials. Act without waiting, while keeping your evidence.
- Mop up the water on the floor and remove soaked rugs and items.
- Get the air moving with open windows if the weather allows, fans and a dehumidifier.
- Raise the furniture or slip protection under its legs.
- Check the neighbouring rooms and the floor below. Water follows walls and floors.
A material that stays damp quickly becomes a breeding ground for mould. Drywall, insulation and wood enclosed in a ceiling do not dry on their own. If a lot of water came in, a disaster cleanup company has the equipment to dry things out in depth. Your insurer can tell you how to proceed.
Get the roof repaired without hurting your claim
Before spending money, even on a temporary repair, ask your insurer what it expects from you. For permanent work, check whether the insurer wants to see the damage first.
Ask us for a written quote that clearly separates two things. One is repairing the cause on the roof. The other is restoring what the water damaged. This distinction helps everyone keep track.
Frequently asked questions
Does home insurance cover a roof leak?
Coverage for a roof leak depends on your policy, the cause of the water entry and the coverage you have. There is no general answer. Call your insurer or your broker, and reread your policy.
Can I throw out the wet carpet and drywall?
Photograph the wet carpet and drywall from every angle first, then ask your insurer whether it wants to see them before they go. If they have to leave the house for health reasons, keep at least detailed photos and a sample if possible.
How long do I have to notify my insurer?
Notify your insurer without delay. Your policy and your insurer set out the deadlines. Notifying early makes the rest simpler and tells you which steps to take.