A roof leak at 2am in a Toronto winter is a genuine emergency. Here's exactly what to do in the first hour — and how to minimize damage before help arrives.
Step 1: Contain the water immediately
Your first priority is preventing water damage from spreading. Place buckets or containers under active drips. If water is pooling on the floor, use towels or mops to absorb it. Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the affected area.
If water is accumulating on a ceiling and you can see it bulging, carefully puncture the lowest point with a screwdriver. This sounds counterintuitive, but a controlled release of water is far less damaging than a ceiling collapse.
Step 2: Find the source — but don't go on the roof
In an emergency, especially in winter or during a storm, do not attempt to access your roof. The risk of injury is real, and you're unlikely to be able to make effective repairs in those conditions anyway.
Instead, go to your attic if it's safely accessible. Look for water intrusion, wet insulation, or daylight. Note where the water appears to be coming from — this information will help your roofer when they arrive.
Step 3: Apply temporary protection from inside
If you have roofing cement or waterproof tape, you can sometimes apply it from inside the attic to slow active leaks. This is a temporary measure only — it buys time until a proper repair can be made.
Step 4: Document everything
Take photos and video of the damage — both the roof and the interior damage. This documentation is essential for insurance claims. Note the date and time, and describe the weather conditions.
Step 5: Call your roofer
AZ Roofing provides 24/7 emergency service across Toronto and the GTA. Call 416-225-0000. We'll assess the situation, provide emergency temporary protection if needed, and schedule a permanent repair.
Step 6: Call your insurance company
Most homeowner's insurance policies cover sudden and accidental roof damage from storms, falling trees, and similar events. They typically don't cover damage from gradual deterioration or lack of maintenance.
Document everything before any repairs are made, and get a written estimate from your roofer for the insurance adjuster.
After the emergency: get a full inspection
Once the immediate crisis is resolved, have your roof professionally inspected. A single leak often indicates that other areas are also vulnerable. A comprehensive inspection will identify any other issues before they become emergencies.
If you're dealing with a roof emergency right now, call us at 416-225-0000. We're available 24/7.