7 Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Emergency Tarping After a Storm

After a storm passes through, many homeowners aren't sure whether their roof sustained damage serious enough to warrant emergency tarping. Waiting to find out can be a costly mistake--water damage can begin within hours and worsen exponentially.

Here are the seven warning signs that indicate you need to call for emergency tarping immediately.

1. Visible Daylight Through Your Roof

If you can see daylight coming through your roof from inside your attic, you have an immediate problem. This means there's a hole or significant gap in your roofing materials, and water will follow the same path light does. Don't wait for rain to confirm this--call for tarping immediately.

2. Missing Shingles or Tiles

Walk around your property after a storm and look at your roof from ground level. If you can see patches of exposed underlayment (usually black felt paper or synthetic material) where shingles or tiles should be, your roof is vulnerable. Even if it's not currently raining, the next weather event could cause serious water intrusion.

3. Active Water Intrusion

This one seems obvious, but it's worth stating: if water is actively coming into your home through the roof or ceiling, you need emergency help immediately. Document the leak with photos and video, then call for emergency tarping. Place buckets to catch water and move valuables away from the affected area.

4. Ceiling Stains or Bubbling

New water stains on your ceiling after a storm indicate water is getting through your roof. Similarly, paint that's bubbling or peeling, or drywall that feels soft or spongy, are signs of water accumulation. Even if you don't see active dripping, water is present and damage is occurring.

5. Debris Impact Damage

If a tree limb, fence section, or other debris struck your roof during the storm, assume damage until proven otherwise. Impact damage can crack tiles, puncture shingles, or damage the underlying decking even when it's not immediately visible. The longer this goes unprotected, the greater the risk of water damage.

6. Sagging or Deformed Roof Sections

If any section of your roof appears to be sagging, dipping, or deformed after a storm, this indicates structural damage. This is a serious situation that requires immediate attention--not only for water protection but for safety. Don't go into your attic to investigate; call professionals immediately.

7. Damaged Flashing or Vents

Check the metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof edges. If you can see that flashing has been lifted, bent, or torn away, water has a direct path into your home. Similarly, if roof vents, turbines, or pipe boots appear damaged or displaced, these are entry points for water.

What to Do If You See These Signs

If you identify any of these warning signs:

1. Document everything with photos and video before any temporary repairs
2. Call for emergency tarping immediately--don't wait for your insurance company's approval
3. Protect your belongings by moving them away from affected areas
4. Contact your insurance company to report the damage
5. Don't attempt DIY roof repairs unless you have proper equipment and training

Remember: your insurance policy typically covers emergency tarping as part of your claim, and it requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Getting a tarp on quickly protects your home and supports your insurance claim.