The 7 Emergency Steps
Protect Your Belongings
Move furniture, electronics, important documents, and valuables away from the affected area immediately. Water spreads along ceiling joists and can appear several metres from the actual entry point.
Contain the Water
Place buckets, bins, and towels under all leak points. One active leak can produce several litres of water per hour. Use plastic sheeting on the floor and furniture for added protection.
Pierce a Bulging Ceiling
If the drywall ceiling is visibly bulging downward with trapped water, place a large container directly below it, then carefully pierce a small hole at the lowest point with a screwdriver. This releases the water in a controlled stream rather than risking a sudden, large collapse that could cause injury and significantly more damage.
Cut Electricity in the Affected Zone
This is critical for safety. If water is near electrical outlets, light fixtures, or any wiring — or if you're not sure — cut the circuit breaker for that area immediately. Water and electricity are a life-threatening combination.
Document Everything with Photos and Video
Before cleaning up, photograph and video all visible damage: ceiling stains, running water, wet insulation, and damaged belongings. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim. Time-stamp your photos if possible.
Call Your Insurance Broker
Report the claim within 24 hours of discovering the damage. Ask your broker exactly what your policy covers and what documentation they require. See our article on home insurance and roof damage. Do not throw away any damaged belongings before the adjuster visits.
Call an Emergency Roofer
Do not attempt to repair the roof yourself, especially in winter — it is extremely dangerous. An experienced roofer can respond quickly with a temporary solution (tarp, patch, emergency flashing repair) and give you an accurate assessment of the extent of the damage.
What You Should NEVER Do
- Never climb on the roof yourself — especially in winter, when surfaces are icy. Falls from roofs cause serious injuries every year in Quebec.
- Never ignore a small stain — a seemingly minor water mark can indicate an active infiltration that has been saturating the structure for weeks or months.
- Never do permanent repairs before the insurance adjuster visits — it could compromise your claim. A temporary tarp or patch is fine; full repairs should wait.
- Never throw away water-damaged belongings — your insurer needs to see and assess the damage to process your claim.
Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks in Quebec
Defective flashing — responsible for the majority of infiltrations; sealant dries, cracks, and separates around chimneys, skylights, vents, and wall junctions
Torn or cracked shingles — from wind gusts, freeze-thaw cycles, or simply old age
Punctured or delaminated flat roof membrane — from foot traffic, debris impact, or normal aging
Clogged flat roof drain — ponding water eventually finds any weakness in the membrane
Ice dams — water forced under shingles by ice buildup at the eaves; see our ice dam guide
Natural aging — asphalt shingles over 20 years, membranes over 30 years; if the roof is past its prime, a full replacement may be necessary
Spot Repair or Full Replacement?
Spot Repair ($300–$1,500)
- Single, identifiable leak point
- Flashing to re-seal or replace
- A few damaged shingles
- Roof in generally good condition (under 15–20 years)
Full Replacement ($5,000–$25,000+)
- Multiple or recurring leaks despite repairs
- Roof at end of its useful life
- Rotten wood decking discovered
- Wet, saturated insulation throughout
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does emergency roof repair cost?
Emergency repairs typically range from $300 to $1,500 depending on scope. A temporary tarp and patch is at the lower end; emergency flashing replacement or membrane repair is higher. Full re-roofing required as a result of extensive damage is priced separately.
Does home insurance cover a leaking roof repair?
It depends. Most Quebec home insurance covers damage from sudden accidental infiltration IF you have the "Water Damage — Water Above Ground Level" rider. However, infiltrations from a lack of maintenance are generally excluded. Insurance covers the resulting damage (stained ceilings, ruined flooring), but NOT the cost of repairing the roof itself.
How do I know if the leak is from the roof or a plumbing problem?
If the water stain appears or worsens during or after rain, snow, or a thaw — it's a roof problem. If the stain is constant regardless of weather, suspect a plumbing or condensation issue. Roof leaks also typically show as brownish rings that dry and reappear; active plumbing leaks tend to keep the area continuously damp.
Can a roofer work in winter?
Yes — Toiture Qualité Pro offers 24/7 emergency service year-round, including in the dead of winter. Emergency temporary repairs (tarping, patching) can be done in almost any weather. We'll always secure your roof against further water entry immediately.