Roof leaking?
Here's what to do now.

First 30 minutes — do these now

1. Catch the water. Put buckets under active drips. Lay towels around them.
2. Move valuables. Get electronics, documents, and keepsakes away from the leak.
3. Take photos and video. Capture the leak, the stain, and all visible damage. You'll need this for insurance.
4. Drain a bulging ceiling. If the ceiling is swelling with trapped water, poke a small hole in the center. Let it drain into a bucket. This stops a collapse.
5. Shut off power nearby. If water is near outlets, lights, or your breaker panel, cut power to that area.

Next 24 hours

1. Call a roofer. DeHart offers 24/7 emergency repair across the Central Valley. Call (209) 667-7737.
2. Use a tarp if needed. If we can't arrive right away, a tarp over the damaged area stops more water. Use bricks or sandbags — not nails, which make new holes.
3. Keep documenting. Check walls, floors, and nearby rooms as damage spreads.
4. Call your insurance. Report within 24 hours. Do not do permanent repairs before the adjuster sees it.

The insurance claim — how it works

1. File within 24 hours. Call your homeowner's insurer right away.
2. Get a claim number. Write it down. Use it in every call and email.
3. Meet the adjuster. They usually come within 3–7 days.
4. Provide your repair estimate. Your roofer submits detailed scope and pricing.
5. Negotiate if needed. Push back if the adjuster's number doesn't cover full repair.
6. Book the permanent repair. Once funds are approved, schedule the fix.

Read our full guide: Storm Damage Roof Insurance Claim Guide

Most common causes of emergency leaks

• Storm damage. Wind lifts shingles and exposes the deck.
• Failed flashing. Gaps form around chimneys, vents, and wall joints.
• Pipe boot failure. Rubber seals crack in Central Valley heat.
• Clogged gutters. Water backs up and gets under shingles.
• Old shingles. Past their lifespan, they simply stop shedding water.
• Ice dams. Rare here, but possible in foothill communities.

What NOT to do

• Don't get on a wet roof. It's extremely dangerous.
• Don't make permanent fixes before insurance inspects. You could void the claim.
• Don't ignore a small leak. Small leaks grow fast.
• Don't hire a storm chaser. Door-to-door roofers after storms are often unlicensed or from out of state.

DeHart Roofing emergency service

We respond within hours, not days. We cover temporary weatherproofing, damage assessment, insurance docs, and permanent repair — one team, start to finish. 51 years of experience. Available 24/7. Call (209) 667-7737 or request service online.