Storm and roof leak water damage in Athens, GA
After a storm, water can come in through a damaged roof, a window or a wall and soak insulation and ceilings. Drying the inside quickly is a separate job from repairing the roof, and both matter.
Call (844) 578-1833We are a referral service. An independent local company does the work.
Signs to look for
- Brown or sagging ceiling stains, or drips during rain
- Wet or heavy insulation in the attic
- Missing shingles, or debris on the roof after a storm
- Water running down walls or around light fixtures
Do this first
- Stay off a wet roof. Do not climb up to look.
- Place buckets and move furniture and valuables away from drips.
- Stay away from light fixtures or ceilings that are sagging with water.
- If a ceiling is bulging with water, keep clear and call for help.
- Photograph the ceiling, the attic if you can reach it safely, and any roof damage visible from the ground.
What a restoration company usually does
Restoration crews can dry wet ceilings, walls and insulation and tell you what has to come out. They may also install temporary protection. The roof itself needs a roofing contractor. If you are filing a claim, ask both for written notes on what they found and what they did.
Insurance notes
Wind and hail damage is commonly covered, but coverage for water that enters through an opening the storm made, versus an old or worn roof, can differ. Report the claim promptly, and keep photos from before and after.
In the Athens area
Athens sees heavy thunderstorms through the summer, and June is the wettest month on average (climate data). Tropical remnants can also bring days of rain, which is when slow roof leaks show up.
Common questions
Who do I call first, a roofer or a restoration company?
Usually both, for different jobs. A roofer fixes or covers the opening, and a restoration company dries the inside. If water is still coming in, a temporary cover from the roofer plus drying inside is the usual order.
Should I get on the roof to check?
No. Wet roofs are dangerous. Look from the ground, take photos, and let a roofer go up.
Is storm water damage covered by insurance?
Wind and hail damage is commonly covered, but coverage for water that gets in through an old or worn roof can differ. Report the claim promptly and keep your photos.
How long can wet insulation stay in the attic?
Not long. The EPA advises drying water-damaged materials within 24 to 48 hours, and wet insulation often has to be removed because it is hard to dry in place.
Water coming in right now? Call and we will connect you with a local restoration company, any hour.
Call (844) 578-1833Calling is free. Ask the company for an estimate before work begins.