Emergency Roof Repair Procedures for Nebraska Storms

When severe weather strikes Nebraska, immediate action can prevent minor roof damage from becoming major structural problems. This guide covers emergency procedures that protect your home until professional repairs can be completed.

Step 1: Assess the Situation Safely

Before attempting any emergency repairs, prioritize your safety. Wait until the storm has fully passed before going outside. Never climb onto a wet or damaged roof. Instead, perform a ground-level assessment:

• Look for missing or displaced shingles from the ground
• Check for sagging areas that indicate structural damage
• Look for debris, fallen branches, or visible holes
• Inspect gutters and downspouts for damage or blockages
• Check the attic for leaks, daylight showing through, or water stains

Step 2: Document Everything

Thorough documentation is critical for insurance claims. Before making any temporary repairs:

• Take photos and videos of all damage from multiple angles
• Note the date, time, and weather conditions during the storm
• Record any interior damage such as water intrusion or ceiling stains
• Keep a written log of all damage discovered
• Save receipts for any emergency supplies or temporary repair materials

Step 3: Prevent Further Water Damage

The primary goal of emergency roof repair is preventing additional water from entering your home. Here are temporary measures you can take safely:

Tarping a Damaged Area

A heavy-duty tarp is your best immediate defense against further water intrusion:

• Use a tarp that extends at least 4 feet beyond the damaged area on all sides
• Secure the tarp with 2x4 boards weighted down or screwed into the roof deck (not just shingles)
• Ensure the tarp extends over the roof ridge to prevent wind from catching underneath
• Avoid using nails or staples alone, as wind will tear the tarp free

Managing Interior Water

• Place buckets or containers under active leaks
• Move furniture and valuables away from wet areas
• Use towels or shop vacuums to remove standing water
• If safe, poke a small hole in a ceiling bulge to drain pooled water into a bucket (prevents ceiling collapse)

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

File your claim as soon as possible after the storm. Most Nebraska homeowner policies cover wind and hail damage. Key steps:

• Call your insurance company's claims line within 24-48 hours
• Provide your documentation (photos, videos, written log)
• Request a claim number and keep it for all future communications
• Ask about coverage for temporary repairs — most policies reimburse reasonable emergency measures
• Do not sign any contractor agreements until your adjuster has assessed the damage

Step 5: Call a Professional Roofing Contractor

While temporary measures protect your home in the short term, professional repair is essential. When choosing an emergency roofing contractor in Nebraska:

• Verify they are licensed and insured in Nebraska
• Ask for local references from recent storm damage work
• Be wary of storm chasers — choose established local companies
• Get a written estimate before work begins
• Confirm they will work directly with your insurance adjuster

Common Nebraska Storm Damage Types

Nebraska's severe weather creates distinct types of roof damage that require different repair approaches:

• Hail damage: Dented or cracked shingles, granule loss, dented flashing and vents
• Wind damage: Lifted, curled, or missing shingles, exposed underlayment
• Debris impact: Punctures from branches, holes from flying objects
• Ice dam damage: Water backup under shingles during winter freeze-thaw cycles

What NOT to Do After Storm Damage

• Do not climb onto a wet, icy, or structurally compromised roof
• Do not attempt permanent repairs yourself — this can void insurance coverage
• Do not sign contracts with door-to-door storm chasers under pressure
• Do not delay filing your insurance claim — Nebraska has deadlines for storm claims
• Do not throw away damaged materials before the insurance adjuster inspects them