Is an emergency tarp a repair?
No. It is temporary weather protection. A permanent repair or replacement scope should follow once the roof can be inspected safely.
Emergency roof repair is for water entry or open roof areas that can damage the home before a standard appointment. If water is reaching plaster, insulation, electrical areas, or finished rooms, call (617) 397-4837, move belongings away from the leak path, and stay off the roof.
What to do before help arrives
Use buckets, towels, and plastic inside if you can do it safely. Photograph the interior damage and the outside area from the ground. Do not pull large ceiling sections down unless there is an immediate safety concern.
Temporary dry-in is not the final repair
Tarps, temporary flashing, board-up work, or membrane patches are meant to reduce water entry until weather and access allow a permanent scope. The follow-up repair should explain materials, roof plane, decking, and cleanup.
Storm demand is triaged
After a nor'easter or coastal wind event, urgent calls are sorted by active water, exposed structure, unsafe access, and weather. A clear description of the leak location, roof height, and visible damage helps the contractor choose the right visit type.
Permanent decisions come after the roof is stable
Once the home is dry, the contractor can compare leak repair, section replacement, or full roof replacement. If storm damage caused the opening, the storm and wind damage page explains photo documentation and itemized scopes.
This page is part of a statewide Massachusetts roofing resource. For local context, see areas we serve, including Boston, Worcester, and Cape Cod. To talk through your roof, call (617) 397-4837.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I climb up to place my own tarp?
No. Wet, icy, wind-damaged, and steep roofs are dangerous. Contain water inside if safe and call for professional dry-in help.
What details help triage an emergency call?
Share the address, roof height, leak location, whether water is active, recent weather, visible roof openings, and any fallen branch or exterior damage.
Massachusetts Roof Pros
(617) 397-4837Speak with a Massachusetts roofing contractor serving your area. Calls may be recorded only after the required Massachusetts recording notice is provided.
