When a limb comes through the roof or wind peels back shingles in the middle of a storm, the immediate goal is simple: keep more water out until a permanent repair can be made. That's what emergency tarping is for. Here's what to expect, and what to do while you wait.
A roofing crew will typically:
A well-installed tarp is a temporary measure meant to protect your home until permanent storm damage repair can be done, ideally soon. Tarps degrade in sun and wind.
If a tree or large limb is on the roof, a tree service usually needs to remove it before the roof can be tarped. In Marin, where oaks, eucalyptus and Monterey pines tower over many homes in Mill Valley, Larkspur, Kentfield, Ross and Fairfax, this is common in big wind events. Don't try to cut or move a limb on your roof yourself.
Policies generally expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, and emergency tarping is usually one of them. Keep receipts. Photos of the damage before tarping, and the tarped roof after, help your claim. The California Department of Insurance's Residential Series includes a claims guide and winter storm tips. See also our insurance claims guide.
If water got into ceilings, walls or insulation, the roof isn't the only thing that needs attention. Wet insulation and drywall need to dry quickly to limit damage and mold risk. Our sister site has guidance on the first 24 hours after water damage and can connect you with water damage restoration providers.
After big storms, be cautious about:
The best emergency is the one you've planned for:
Emergency tarping costs vary widely, and we don't publish prices because they depend on factors only a contractor can assess on site: the size and location of the damage, roof pitch and height, access (steep driveways and hillside lots in Marin can add time), whether a tree must be removed first, materials used, and the time of day and storm demand. Ask for the price before work starts, get it in writing even if it's a text message, and keep the receipt for your insurer. Be cautious of anyone who won't give you a price until the job is done.
Once the tarp is on, schedule an assessment for permanent repair as soon as the weather allows. The roofer should inspect the deck and framing under the damaged area, not just the covering, and check the attic for wet insulation. Ask whether the damage can be repaired in place or whether a larger section, or the whole roof, should be replaced, and get the explanation and photos in writing for your insurer.
If your roof is open to the weather, submit a request or call the number at the top of this page to connect with an independent local roofer for emergency tarping.
It's safest to leave tarping to professionals, especially on wet, steep or windy roofs.
Tarps are temporary; plan a permanent repair as soon as practical.
Emergency measures to prevent further damage are often covered as part of a covered claim—check your policy and keep receipts.
It depends on storm demand and crew availability; during big storms, waits can be longer.
A properly installed tarp minimizes harm; fastening methods vary. Ask the contractor how they'll secure it.
Leave removal to the roofer doing the permanent repair.
This article is general information, not legal, insurance or medical advice. Sources are linked in the text.