Storm damage to your roof: what to do next

A homeowner guide from Ellis Services

Sydney storms: more than a summer problem

Heavy rain and strong winds can affect Sydney roofs at different times of year. East coast lows are a particular concern on the NSW coast and are most common in late autumn and winter. Follow current warnings and arrange attention to existing damage before the next wet spell.

Strong wind: loose tiles, sheets and roof edges

Wind can displace loose roof components and drive rain into vulnerable junctions. From a safe place, note a new rattle, a missing tile, a lifted edge or debris on the ground. The inspection should check the affected components, their fixings and neighbouring sections; replacing one visible piece may leave another weak point untouched.

Heavy rain: overflowing gutters and indoor leaks

Leaves and sediment can restrict gutters and outlets. Other faults, such as poor gutter fall, damaged joints or a blocked downpipe, can still cause overflow after a clean. Watch from shelter where water spills and whether it reaches the eaves or a wall. New ceiling marks, peeling paint and a damp eaves lining need the water source checked before cosmetic repairs.

Hail and falling branches: check beyond the visible mark

Hail or a branch impact can damage tiles, sheets, skylights or roof fittings. A dent alone does not tell you whether water can enter. Tell the assessor where the impact occurred and whether a leak followed. Keep clear of fallen branches and powerlines; do not move damaged roof material yourself.

What to do while water is coming in

Keep people away from a sagging ceiling, falling material and electrical hazards. Stay sheltered; do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof or attempt to fit a tarp. Move belongings only if the room is safe. Call NSW SES on 132 500 for storm emergency assistance, or 000 for a life-threatening emergency.

Record the details safely, then arrange an assessment

Photographs from the ground or a safe indoor position can help explain what changed. Tell Ellis the exact suburb and postcode, the affected rooms and whether water started during intense rain or only when the wind changed. For a rental or shared roof, involve the property manager, strata manager or person authorised to arrange work.

• Property type, number of storeys and roof material if known.
• When the leak began, which rooms are affected and changes in rain or wind.
• Safely taken photos, previous repairs and any temporary work already done.
• Access restrictions, the contact person and any approval needed to arrange work.

Temporary protection and permanent repair do different jobs

Ask whether temporary protection is suitable and available for your property. It may reduce further exposure while a permanent repair is planned. Ask what is protected, what precautions apply and when it needs checking again. The permanent scope should explain the cause, materials, roof sections and any separate gutter, eaves or ceiling work. Call to confirm the earliest safe assessment and any charges.

Keep records for your insurer

Ask your insurer what evidence and approvals it needs before authorising work. Keep the photographs, inspection findings, quotes, temporary-work records and invoices together. Your insurer decides cover and claim acceptance under your policy.

Before the next downpour

Arrange repairs to known roof defects and gutter problems while access is safe. Include outlets and downpipes in a drainage check, and ask about loose components or previous patches that need attention. If water has already reached the eaves or indoors, describe where you have seen water as well so the repair plan addresses the water source and affected finishes.

Common questions about rain and storm damage

Plan your next step

Related services

Official sources for further reading