My Commercial Roof is Leaking: What Can I Do?

A commercial roof leak demands prompt action. Here's a practical, step-by-step guide for what to do when your roof is actively leaking.

Immediate Steps (Today)

Protect your interior — move equipment, valuables, and inventory away from the leak area. Place buckets and absorbent materials to limit water damage. Document everything with photos and video for insurance purposes. If water is near electrical panels, lighting, or equipment, shut off power to affected areas and call an electrician before proceeding. Contact a qualified commercial roofing contractor for emergency service.

Emergency Temporary Repairs

A qualified roofing contractor can apply emergency tarping or temporary sealant to stop active water entry. This is not a permanent solution — it's a bridge to allow proper diagnosis and repair. Do not let temporary repairs delay proper assessment.

Proper Diagnosis (Next 1–2 Weeks)

Once active leaking is controlled, commission a proper assessment: roof inspection to identify visible breach points, infrared scan to map moisture extent in insulation, and core samples to confirm wet insulation areas. This data determines whether the roof needs targeted repair, restoration, or replacement.

Long-Term Solution

If your roof is actively leaking: targeted repair if failure is isolated and the overall system is sound; silicone coating restoration if seam failure is widespread but wet insulation is under 25%; full replacement if wet insulation is extensive. Don't let a crisis force you into a rushed replacement decision without proper assessment data.