What To Do When Your Roof Is Leaking
What to do when the roof of your house springs a leak:
- Safety first: Water leaking from the roof often makes its way through light fixtures or walls, so don’t turn on the lights and be sure to quickly disconnect the relevant circuit breakers to prevent a short circuit, a fire or an electrocution
- Contain the damage: Mop up any water and use a container to collect any water that continues to drip. Move any valuables out of harm’s way and dry off anything that got wet.
- Identify the source of the problem: If possible, inspect your roof and your attic to determine the source of the leak. Pay special attention to snow piles, missing shingles, joints, chimneys, antennas and the electrical mast.
- Call your belairdirect claims advisor: As soon as you can, draw up a detailed description of the situation and a list of what has been damaged, and call your belairdirect claims expert. You should call as quickly as possible! Your claims advisor will guide you through the next steps.
- Make the necessary repairs without delay : Fix the source of the leak as quickly as possible to avoid any additional damage to your belongings, your furniture and your property. The faster you take control of the situation, the more you minimize the risk of mould growth. Keep the receipts of all your expenditures for your claims file.
Keep an eye on the state of your roof to reduce the risk of leaks
Inspect your roof at least twice a year, in the spring and fall, as well as after a windstorm or a prolonged windy period. Check to see that the shingles aren’t lifting or missing, and that the joints between the roof and the chimney, the dormers, and so on, are in good condition, as are the joints between the different slopes of the roof. If your roof is more than 15 years old, be doubly cautious and consider having it inspected by a professional.
In the spring and the fall, clean out your gutters to avoid blockages and spill over. If you have a flat roof, check the condition of the roof drain. In the winter, have your roof cleared of snow if there is a heavy build up.
You can also check the state of your roof by looking for damp spots or mould around windows, dormers or skylights.
