What to do if…
you find storm damage to your roof or windows that could worsen

What to do now

1. Keep people away from the damaged area.
   Keep children, pets, and anyone unsteady out of affected rooms. Watch for broken glass, loose frames, ceiling bulges, dripping near lights, wet sockets, fallen cables, or any smell of gas.

2. Escalate immediately if there is a utility danger.

   • If you smell gas, suspect a gas leak, or your carbon monoxide alarm sounds: move to fresh air, avoid flames and electrical switches, and call the gas emergency number. In England, Wales, and Scotland call 0800 111 999. In Northern Ireland call 0800 002 001.
   • If there are fallen or unsafe power lines: stay well back. In England, Scotland, and Wales call 105 to reach the local network operator. In Northern Ireland call 03457 643643. If there is a serious immediate risk to life or the public, call 999.

3. Limit water and wind getting in, from the safest side.

   • For windows: close internal doors, wear shoes and gloves, move people away from loose glass, and cover the opening from inside with thick plastic, bin bags, sheeting, or board and strong tape. Only board it if you can do it without leaning out, climbing, or working over broken glass.
   • For roof leaks: put buckets, bowls, or towels under drips. Move valuables away from the wet area. If you can safely reach the loft, place a container under the drip from indoors, but do not step on plasterboard, insulation, or anywhere you cannot clearly see solid footing.
   • For wet electrics: keep the area unused. Only switch off power at the consumer unit if it is dry, accessible, and you are confident you can do it safely. Otherwise step back and wait for a qualified person.

4. Take quick evidence before changing more.
   Take photos or video of the visible outside damage from ground level, the inside damage, water marks, broken glass, missing or lifted tiles, and any temporary covering you add.

5. Report it to the responsible person today.

   • If you rent: contact your landlord or letting agent and say there is urgent storm damage to the roof or windows that may worsen. Send photos and follow up in writing by text or email.
   • If you own: contact your buildings insurer, log the damage, and ask what temporary repairs they want you to do and whether they can send an emergency contractor.

6. Keep any urgent spending small and documented.
   Buy only what is needed to reduce further damage, such as sheeting, tape, buckets, or boards. Keep receipts and make a short note of what you did and when.

7. Reduce damage before the next storm if you can do it safely.
   Bring in or secure bins, garden furniture, loose plant pots, and anything that could hit windows. Close and latch windows, doors, garage doors, and loft hatches.