The First 24 Hours After Roof Damage: What Really Matters
When your roof is damaged, whether by a severe Oklahoma storm, falling debris, or a sudden leak, the clock starts ticking. What you do in the first 24 hours determines how much damage spreads, how smooth your insurance claim goes, and how expensive your repairs become. Too many homeowners make the mistake of waiting—only to find out later that waiting cost them thousands.
At Tier-One Roofing, we respond to roof emergencies every week. We know what works, what doesn’t, and what homeowners need to do first. Here’s your step-by-step guide for those critical first 24 hours.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
If your roof is damaged, your first thought might be to climb up and see how bad it is. Don’t. Climbing on a roof after damage—especially if it’s wet, wind-damaged, or compromised—is dangerous.
Stay on the ground for visual inspection.
Keep family and pets away from areas where debris could fall.
Watch for electrical hazards if power lines are affected.
Tier-One Roofing has trained emergency response teams who know how to handle dangerous conditions safely.
Step 2: Document the Damage
Your insurance company will need proof, and the faster you provide it, the better. Use your phone to:
Take wide shots of your home.
Zoom in on visible damage (missing shingles, fallen branches, debris).
Capture interior water stains, leaks, or ceiling drips.
Note the date and time the damage occurred.
Good documentation speeds up claims and ensures nothing is disputed later.
Step 3: Stop Active Leaks (Temporary Measures)
If water is coming inside:
Place buckets under leaks to prevent flooring and furniture damage.
Move valuables away from affected areas.
If safe to do so, place a tarp or plastic sheet in the attic under the damaged area.
Tier-One Roofing offers emergency tarping and temporary repair services. Our goal is to stop further damage until a permanent fix is complete.
Step 4: Call a Trusted Roofer—Fast
Don’t wait days for help. The longer your roof is exposed, the more damage spreads.
Choose a local roofer with proven experience.
Avoid “storm chasers” who show up uninvited.
Ask if they offer emergency service (we do).
Tier-One Roofing provides 24/7 emergency support for roof damage. We respond quickly, document damage for insurance, and put a temporary fix in place immediately.
Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve secured your home and called a roofer, notify your insurer.
Provide the photos and notes you took.
Keep records of all calls, names, and claim numbers.
Ask about coverage limits, deductibles, and next steps.
We work directly with insurance adjusters to make your claim process smoother and more accurate.
Step 6: Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even if damage looks minor, hidden issues could cost thousands later. A professional inspection finds:
Lifted shingles or flashing.
Structural decking issues.
Hail bruises that shorten shingle life.
Attic moisture or ventilation problems.
Tier-One Roofing provides free, same-day inspections after storm events. We’ll give you a detailed report, complete with photos, so you know exactly what’s needed.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Delaying repairs or inspection can:
Void certain insurance coverage (many policies require prompt action).
Allow water to spread into insulation, ceilings, and electrical systems.
Lead to mold growth in as little as 48 hours.
Turn a minor repair into a major replacement.
Calling Tier-One Roofing within the first 24 hours often saves homeowners thousands in repairs and headaches.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Climbing on the roof themselves: Risking injury and making damage worse.
Waiting for multiple bids: In emergencies, speed matters more than saving a few dollars upfront.
Hiring non-local or unverified contractors: Many disappear before warranties are needed.
Ignoring small leaks: Even minor drips can ruin insulation and lead to hidden mold.
We see these mistakes all the time—and we also see the avoidable costs that come with them.
How Tier-One Roofing Handles Emergencies
We’re veteran-owned, local, and fully equipped to handle roof emergencies. Our process:
Rapid response to secure your home.
Photo documentation for insurance claims.
Honest assessment—no upsell, just facts.
Full repair or replacement plan built to last.
We treat your emergency like our own because protecting families and homes is why we do what we do.
Your Next Step
If your roof has been damaged, don’t wait. Don’t guess. And definitely don’t climb up there yourself.
Call Tier-One Roofing right now for emergency assistance or a free inspection. We’ll respond quickly, stop additional damage, and guide you through the insurance process from start to finish.
Because in those first 24 hours, every decision matters—and we’re here to make sure you make the right ones.