A practical emergency leak playbook for Philly homeowners: safety steps, temporary mitigation, documentation, and how to hire emergency help without getting scammed.
Protect people first, then property, then paperwork.
If water is near lights, outlets, or ceiling fixtures:
When in doubt, treat any water near electrical components as an electrical hazard. Don't take chances with safety.
Quick actions that limit damage:
Controlled drainage into a bucket prevents catastrophic drywall collapse and spreads damage to a smaller area.
Wet roofs are extremely dangerous, even for professionals. In many Philadelphia row homes, roof access involves steep angles, narrow spaces, and proximity to edges.
If you need to attempt any exterior mitigation, work from inside the attic if accessible, or wait for professional help. No temporary fix is worth a serious injury or fall.
Take photos and video of:
This documentation speeds up both the repair process and insurance claims. Contractors can better understand the situation, and adjusters have clear evidence of damage.
When contacting emergency roofers, ask for:
Emergency tarps and temporary patches can be legitimate and necessary. However, the permanent repair should be quoted transparently and separately. Be wary of contractors who pressure you into major decisions during an emergency.
