Joburg’s summer storms don’t play around. One moment the sky is clear, and the next you’re dealing with hail, gale‑force winds, and sheets of rain that can turn a small roof issue into a full‑blown emergency. When water starts pouring in or tiles go flying, panic is a natural reaction — but the first hour after roof damage is where calm, smart decisions matter most.
This guide walks you through the essential first steps to protect your home, your safety, and your wallet.
🌩️ 1. Prioritise Safety Above Everything Else
Before you even think about climbing onto the roof, stop.
Wet roofs are slippery, unstable, and dangerous — especially after hail or wind damage.
Stay indoors and assess from a distance.
Look for obvious signs of trouble:
- Water dripping from ceilings
- Bulging or sagging ceiling boards
- Visible daylight through the roof
- Loose or missing tiles
- Debris on the roof or in the yard
If the ceiling looks like it’s about to collapse, evacuate that room immediately.
🛑 2. Stop the Water From Spreading
Once you’ve identified where the leak is coming from, your goal is to limit the damage.
Inside the house:
- Move electronics, furniture, and valuables out of the affected area
- Place buckets or containers under active drips
- Lay towels or plastic sheets to protect flooring
- If the ceiling is bulging with water, do not poke it — it can collapse suddenly
Outside the house:
Avoid going onto the roof during or immediately after the storm. Rather wait for a professional.
📸 3. Document Everything for Insurance
Insurance companies love evidence — and the more you have, the smoother your claim will be.
Take clear photos and videos of:
- The damaged roof area (from the ground)
- Interior leaks and ceiling damage
- Any damaged belongings
- The storm conditions if possible
This documentation becomes crucial when proving the cause and extent of the damage.
🧰 4. Do Temporary Damage Control (Safely)
If the weather has calmed and it’s safe to do so, you can take basic temporary measures:
- Place a tarp over the affected area (from a ladder, not by climbing onto the roof)
- Use plastic sheeting inside to contain leaks
- Switch off electricity in affected rooms if water is near light fittings or plugs
These steps are not repairs — they’re just to prevent further damage until help arrives.
🛠️ 5. Call a Professional Roofing Contractor Immediately
Joburg’s storm season keeps roofing teams extremely busy, so the sooner you call, the faster you’ll get help.
A qualified roofer will:
- Inspect the roof safely
- Identify hidden structural issues
- Perform emergency patching
- Provide a quote for permanent repairs
- Help with insurance reports if needed
Avoid “storm chasers” — the guys who appear out of nowhere offering cheap fixes. Stick to reputable, local contractors with references.
💡 6. Understand What Counts as an Emergency Repair
Emergency repairs focus on stabilising the roof, not completing the final fix. This may include:
- Replacing a few tiles
- Securing loose sheets
- Sealing a major leak
- Reinforcing a weakened section
Permanent repairs and waterproofing usually happen once the roof is dry and the weather clears.
🏠 7. Plan for Long‑Term Prevention
Once the immediate crisis is handled, take steps to reduce future storm damage:
- Clean gutters and downpipes regularly
- Trim overhanging branches
- Inspect your roof before storm season
- Replace old waterproofing
- Fix minor issues before they become major ones
A little maintenance goes a long way during Joburg’s unpredictable summer weather.
🌦️ Final Thoughts
Storm damage is stressful, but knowing what to do in the first few minutes can save you thousands of rands and prevent long‑term structural issues. Stay safe, act quickly, and rely on professionals for anything beyond basic temporary measures.
Get a Free Roof Assessment
Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s appearance or protect it from future damage, our team is ready to help. Get a free quote or inspection from Johannesburg’s trusted roofing specialists.
Contact Roof Surgeon Today or call us for expert advice.
Call us at: 011 868 3243
Email: admin@roofsurgeon.co.za
Request your free quote online: www.roofsurgeon.co.za
If you found this article interesting, please visit our Rain-Ready Roofs: Your Essential Guide to Pre-Season Maintenance in Johannesburg article for more information.
Image credit: Image by photoangel on Freepik
