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What to Do After Noticing a Roof Leak After a Nor'easter

Nor'easter roof inspection

Nor’easters bring a heavy combination of driving rain, winds, and potentially heavy snow (depending on the temperature) that can severely stress even the strongest roofing systems. Driven by gale-force wind gusts, water can force its way under shingles, around flashing, and into your home.

Discovering an active leak after a major coastal storm is stressful, but taking prompt, structured action can minimize water damage, protect your home’s structure, and streamline your insurance claim. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after discovering a leak.

1. First Priority – Contain the Indoor Water Immediately

Before investigating where the leak is coming from, focus on preventing interior damage to your living space:

  • Catch Running Water: Place buckets, plastic bins, or pots under active drips. Place towels around the base to catch splashing.

  • Relieve Ceiling Pressure: If water is pooling behind ceiling drywall or paint (forming a sagging “bubble”), puncture the center with a small screwdriver or nail to direct the trapped water into a bucket. This prevents the ceiling drywall from collapsing under the weight.

  • Protect Valuables: Move furniture, electronics, and rug clear of the leak area or cover them with plastic or another non-porous material.

2. Document the Damage Thoroughly

If you plan to file a homeowner’s insurance claim, detailed documentation is essential:

  • Take Photos and Video: Capture clear images and videos of the active leak, ceiling/wall stains, damaged flooring, and affected personal property.

  • Note the Date and Weather: Record when the leak started and the storm conditions (e.g., high winds, heavy rainfall) present at the time.

3. Conduct a Safe Preliminary Inspection

Never climb onto a wet, icy, or wind-blown roof. Do NOT attempt to climb a ladder during high winds. After a storm, roof surfaces remain extremely slick, and structural decking may be compromised.

Instead, perform a safe inspection:

  • Attic Check: If you have safe access to your attic, use a flashlight to locate where water is entering. Keep in mind that water can travel along roof rafters before dripping down, so the wet spot on your ceiling may differ from the actual entry point.

  • Ground-Level Exterior Inspection: Inspect the roof from the ground with binoculars or the zoom on a camera. Look for damage from debris, missing or lifted shingles, damaged fascia/trim, and gutters pulling away from the roofline.

4. Contact a Licensed Roofing Professional

Beware of “storm chasers,” out-of-town contractors that follow severe weather, who offer quick fixes but disappear when problems arise later.

Reach out to an established, local roofing company, like Hackensack Roofing Company, as soon as possible. Major storms create a surge in emergency repairs, so consider the gravity of your repair and be as forthright as possible. A minor leak through drywall is not as severe as a tree puncturing a roof or an unknown leak dripping on electrical components that pose a fire hazard. If you have a high-priority issue, let the roofing company know the nature of the danger so they can prioritize the emergency.

Our experienced roofers at Hackensack Roofing Company understand the specific toll Nor’easters take on roofs. Our team will:

  • Install emergency tarping (if necessary) to create a waterproof barrier preventing further water intrusion.

  • Conduct a structural inspection and locate hidden moisture.

  • Provide a free written estimate for the repair or replacement.

5. Prevent Future Storm Leaks

Once emergency repairs are complete, our team will discuss long-term prevention. If your roof needs upgrading or replacements, Hackensack Roofing Company will give you an honest assessment so your roof will be ready to withstand the next severe storm.