What should I do first if my roof is leaking?

Place a container to catch dripping water, move belongings away from the affected area, and if safe to do so, check the loft for the source of the leak. Contact a roofer as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Can I repair a roof leak myself?

Small, accessible repairs such as clearing a blocked gutter may be DIY-suitable, but working at height and repairing tiles, flashing or membranes should be left to a qualified roofer for safety reasons.

How much does it cost to fix a roof leak?

Emergency roof leak repairs typically cost between £150 and £1,000, depending on the cause, accessibility and extent of the damage.

What causes a roof to start leaking?

Common causes include slipped or cracked tiles, damaged flashing, blocked gutters causing water to back up, and deteriorating roof membranes on flat roofs.

Is roof leak damage covered by home insurance?

Sudden and unexpected damage, such as from a storm, is often covered by home insurance, but damage from long-term neglect or lack of maintenance may not be. Check your policy for details.

How quickly should a roof leak be fixed?

As quickly as possible. Water ingress can damage insulation, ceilings, timber structures and lead to damp and mould if left untreated.

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Homeowner Hub › Emergency Home Repairs › Roof Leaks

Roof Leaks

A leaking roof can quickly damage ceilings, insulation and timber. Learn the immediate steps to take, common causes, repair costs and how to find a trusted emergency roofer.

Last reviewed: August 2026 · Reviewed by: The TopTenTrades Editorial Team

Quick Answer

1.Place a container to catch dripping water
2.Move furniture and belongings away from the affected area
3.Check the loft for the source of the leak if it is safe to do so
4.Take photos of the damage for insurance purposes
5.Contact an emergency roofer

Problem type: Emergency roofing
Typical trade: Roofer
Urgency: Immediate, especially during heavy rain or storms
Typical repair time: 1–3 hours for temporary repair
Typical cost: £150–£1,000
Risk if ignored: Ceiling and timber damage, damp, mould, structural damage

What To Do

1.Place a bucket or container beneath the leak to catch dripping water.
2.Move furniture, electronics and belongings away from the affected area.
3.If safe to access, check the loft for the source of the leak and any pooling water.
4.Take photos of the damage as evidence for a home insurance claim.
5.Avoid going onto the roof yourself — working at height is dangerous without the right equipment and training.
6.Contact a roofer for an emergency inspection and temporary or permanent repair.

Signs You May Have This Problem

•Water stains or damp patches on ceilings or walls
•Dripping water during or after rain
•Missing, slipped or cracked roof tiles visible from ground level
•Damp or musty smell in the loft
•Daylight visible through the roof from inside the loft
•Sagging areas on the ceiling

Common Causes

•Slipped, cracked or missing roof tiles
•Damaged or perished flashing around chimneys and roof windows
•Blocked gutters causing water to back up under tiles
•Deteriorating membranes on flat roofs
•Storm damage from high winds

Roof Leaks: Typical Costs

Repair	Typical Cost (UK)
Emergency callout / temporary repair	£150–£300
Replace damaged tiles	£200–£600
Flat roof repair	£300–£1,000
Flashing repair	£150–£500

Scaffolding or access equipment can add significantly to the cost. Prices vary depending on roof type, pitch, accessibility and the extent of damage.

When Should You Call An Emergency Professional?

check_circleWater is actively entering the property
check_circleYou can see daylight through the roof structure
check_circleThere is visible sagging or structural movement
check_circleThe leak follows a storm or period of high winds
check_circleYou are not confident identifying the source yourself

How To Prevent This

•Have your roof visually inspected at least once a year
•Clear gutters and downpipes regularly, especially in autumn
•Check the roof after severe storms or high winds
•Repair small issues like slipped tiles promptly
•Keep an eye on loft insulation for signs of damp

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Tile replacement
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Blocked Drains Burst Pipes Broken Windows

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