What should I do while water is entering?
Stay away from sagging ceilings and keep people clear of wet electrical fixtures or outlets. Move belongings only when it is safe, and do not climb onto a wet or storm-damaged roof.
Emergency Roof Repair & Tarping
Roof leaking right now? StormBear provides emergency roof tarping and temporary leak stops across Chicago and the nearby suburbs. Call or text (773) 245-6861 — we answer 5 AM to 10 PM, seven days a week, in English or Spanish. We secure the roof first, then give you a written plan and price for the permanent repair.
Signs you need this service
- Water is dripping indoors during a storm or as accumulated snow begins to melt.
- Fresh ceiling stains are spreading near an exterior wall, chimney, or roof opening.
- Wind has scattered shingles across your yard or exposed part of the roof surface.
- A branch impact has left visible damage that could allow more rain inside.
- A previously quiet leak returns with wind-driven rain or repeated freezing and thawing.
What the job involves, step by step
- Call or text us a photo of where water is coming in, when it started and any visible storm damage.
- We evaluate the damaged area when access and weather allow, separating urgent protection needs from permanent roofing work.
- We explain the proposed temporary measures and provide pricing so you understand what the emergency scope covers.
- The damaged opening is protected with emergency tarping or an appropriate temporary leak stop, based on the roof condition.
- We document visible damage and explain the next repair options, including any follow-up inspection needed once conditions improve.
A tarp or temporary leak stop is short-term protection only. Our written workmanship warranty applies to the permanent repair.
Typical price range
Emergency tarping: $400 – $750; emergency leak stop: $500 – $1,500. Permanent repairs or replacement are quoted separately once the roof is dry and safe to inspect.
See all roofing pricesHow long it usually takes
The time needed usually depends on safe roof access, the size of the damaged opening, and continuing rain, snow, or wind. Temporary protection and permanent repairs may require separate visits; scheduling is discussed after the conditions are assessed.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a tarp the finished repair?
A tarp is temporary protection, not a replacement for a sound roofing system. After the immediate problem is controlled, the roof still needs an evaluation for damaged shingles, flashing, decking, or flat-roof seams.
Can you help document storm damage?
Visible storm damage can be documented for your insurance records. Your insurer decides coverage under your policy, so keep your own photos and receipts without putting yourself at risk.
Is temporary protection priced separately from the permanent repair?
Yes. The estimate distinguishes emergency protection from any recommended permanent repair so the two are not confused.
Should I wait for another storm to confirm the damage?
Visible storm damage or a fresh indoor leak is a reason to request an inspection rather than deliberately waiting for more water. Describe what you can see from a safe location, and let the roof condition and weather guide the next steps.