Storm Season Playbook: What to Do When Your Roof Springs a Leak
When heavy rain hammers the South West, even a well-kept roof can surprise you with a drip. Stay calm, move electronics and soft furnishings, and keep people and pets away from wet areas. Many UK households are seeing more intense cloudbursts, a pattern the Financial Times has noted in recent insurer briefings. If you are searching for Bath roof repairs, the steps below will help you stabilise the situation, gather evidence, and decide when to bring in professional help.
If water is coming in, think containment first. Place buckets under drips and lay towels to prevent water from spreading. If you can access the loft safely, put a tray under the leak to protect the insulation. Avoid going on the roof in stormy conditions. A temporary exterior fix is a job for trained technicians, so if you need rapid diagnostics and emergency patching, call Reliable Bath Roof Repair Services rather than waiting for the next shower to make things worse.
Work methodically and only attempt interior measures you can do safely. If anything looks unstable or if electrical fittings are wet, step away and seek professional help.
Safe temporary actions
Focus on controlling water inside the property and reducing secondary damage. These quick steps help without risking a climb onto the roof:
· Turn off electrics in affected rooms if water is near sockets or light fittings
· Channel drips into a container using a tray or a plastic sheet in the loft
· Lift and prop the edge of damp carpets to encourage ventilation
Document the damage well
Good evidence speeds both insurance decisions and contractor quotes. Keep your notes clear and time-stamped.
· Take photos and short videos of every affected area, including close-ups and a wide shot for context
· Record dates, times, and weather conditions, and keep a simple incident log
· Save receipts for emergency purchases such as tarps, dehumidifier rental, or temporary accommodation
When to call the professionals
A qualified roofer can install a temporary patch, provide a report, and advise on drying and ventilation. Call promptly if you notice:
· Persistent dripping after the rain has stopped
· Slipped, cracked, or missing slates, or tiles visible from the ground
· Daylight visible through the roof deck or water tracking down rafters
Insurance basics
Most UK home policies cover sudden storm damage to the roof and the resulting interior water damage, subject to maintenance and policy terms. Notify your insurer as soon as practicable and log the claim number. You can usually authorise urgent mitigation while you wait for formal approval, as long as you keep photographs and receipts. After major weather events, demand for trades can spike, something Construction News has reported across the sector. Ask your roofer for an itemised quote that separates temporary works from permanent repairs, then share it with the loss adjuster to keep the decision-making process moving.
A leak feels stressful, yet a steady approach makes a real difference. Prioritise safety, contain the water, document everything, and get a qualified assessment promptly. With smart steps and timely Bath roof repairs, you can limit the damage and get your home back to normal faster.
