If your roof leaks overnight, contain the water with buckets, move valuables, switch off affected electrics and do not go on the roof in the dark. Call a 24/7 emergency roofer, photograph the damage for insurance, then contact your insurer. Same-day make-safe prevents further interior damage.
If you need emergency help right now: Call 01625 402977 — 24/7, 365 days a year. We aim to be on site within two hours across Wilmslow and Cheshire East.
Step 1: Contain the Water
Place buckets or containers under any active drips immediately. If water is spreading across a ceiling, a small hole made in the lowest point of the bulge will allow a single controlled drip rather than a ceiling collapse. This sounds counter-intuitive but a controlled drip causes far less damage than a ceiling coming down. Use a screwdriver carefully — not a large puncture.
Step 2: Move Valuables
Clear the area below the leak of furniture, electronics and anything that can be damaged. Ceiling leaks are unpredictable — the water entry point is often not directly above the drip point. Move items from a wider area than you think is affected.
The Association of British Insurers confirms that storm damage and sudden accidental roof failures are covered under standard buildings insurance, but gradual wear and lack of maintenance are not.
— Association of British Insurers buildings cover guidance
Step 3: Do Not Go On the Roof
Do not attempt to access the roof in the dark or in wet conditions. A wet tile or slate roof is extremely dangerous. The risk of serious injury significantly outweighs any benefit from an untrained person attempting to locate a leak at night. This is what emergency roofers are for.
Step 4: Turn Off Electrics if Necessary
If water is dripping near light fittings, switch off the circuit at the consumer unit. Water and live electrical components are a genuine safety risk. If in doubt, turn off the mains and use torches.
Step 5: Call an Emergency Roofer
Call 01625 402977. Give the address and describe what you can see — where the water is coming in, whether there was recent storm damage, and the approximate age of the property. We use this information to bring the correct materials for your property type.
Step 6: Document the Damage
While waiting, photograph the leak point, any ceiling damage and any visible external damage if safely accessible from the ground. This documentation supports your insurance claim. Do not spend time photographing instead of containing the water.
Step 7: Contact Your Insurer
Storm damage and sudden structural failures are covered under standard buildings insurance policies. Call your insurer's emergency line or note the claim number. You do not need insurer authorisation before making emergency repairs — you have a duty to mitigate further damage. We provide a written report with photographs for your insurer on the same day as any emergency attendance.
What Not to Do
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Do not climb onto the roof at night or in wet conditions
- Do not attempt to seal a leak from inside the loft with tape or sealant — it does not work and delays proper repair
- Do not wait until morning to call if water is actively running — roof leaks damage plaster, insulation, electrics and structural timbers within hours
- Do not use a contractor who cannot provide a same-day written report for your insurer
For immediate emergency roof repair in Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford and all of Cheshire East: 01625 402977.
Last reviewed: 19 July 2026