Storm and roof leaks
Storm and roof leak damage
A roof leak is often found after the fact, as a stain on a ceiling or a damp patch inside a wall.
Where the water usually comes in
On tile roofs, the tiles shed water but the underlayment below them is the real barrier. Cracked or shifted tiles, worn flashing at chimneys and vents, and clogged gutters let rain reach it.
Water then travels along framing before it drops through a ceiling. The wet spot indoors can be several feet from the opening.
Make it safe first
Roofs are slick in the rain. A roofer, not a homeowner, should be on it.
Indoors, set out buckets, move furniture and photograph the damage. The California Department of Insurance advises temporary repairs, such as covering an opening with plastic sheeting, and keeping receipts.
What the insurance guide says about rain
The department's guide gives rain entering through a wind-created hole in the roof as an example of water damage that homeowners policies often cover. Your policy's wording decides.
Its winter storm tips list further steps at insurance.ca.gov.
Roof repair and drying are different trades
A restoration contractor dries the interior. A roofer fixes the opening. Plan for both, and for the order they come in.
Water is still moving, or the room is already wet?
Call the number and describe what happened. You are connected with an independent restoration contractor who serves your ZIP. Calling early helps, because wet drywall and flooring get harder to save each day.