Move belongings and collect dripping water only where it is safe. Keep away from wet electrical fittings and a visibly sagging ceiling. Record the position and timing of the leak without climbing onto the roof. Explain the weather conditions and any previous repairs when calling. A temporary measure may be separate from permanent repair; a message does not confirm an emergency appointment.
Limit damage from a safe position
Move furniture and vulnerable belongings if you can do so safely. Collect dripping water without going near wet electrical equipment or a visibly sagging ceiling. Contact the emergency services if there is immediate danger.
Record what you can see
Photograph the damp area from a safe place and note when dripping starts. Mention heavy rain, wind direction and whether water continues after the shower. These observations help an investigation without proving the cause.
Have the cause assessed
Do not climb onto the roof. Water can travel through the roof structure before appearing indoors. Discuss the location, access and urgency by phone so that the appropriate investigation can be agreed.
Information to give when calling
Start with the address and say whether water is entering now. Identify the room and roof section. Explain whether you are the tenant, owner or association contact, and who can arrange access and approve work.
Separate temporary and permanent work
Ask what a temporary measure covers, which roof sections it treats and what follow-up is needed. An emergency repair does not automatically renew the whole roof. Keep the scope and any limitations in writing.
An example of a useful report
For example: water has dripped beside the extension rooflight since this morning’s rain; the rooflight was replaced last year; indoor photographs are available. This describes the history and observations without assuming a diagnosis.