What Is Emergency Tarping After a Fire?

The pros first inspect the roof to see how much of it is damaged and where the edges of the intact roof are. They measure the area and cut heavy-duty tarps to fit, often overlapping them to cover the whole opening. Then they fasten the tarps down, usually with nails or screws and sometimes with wood battens to hold the edges in place.

The goal is a tight, secure cover that stays put in wind and rain. The pros may also check the attic from inside to see if water is already getting in and to spot any sagging or weakened areas. This step helps them decide how to place the tarp so it sheds water away from the house.

Emergency tarping is a temporary fix, not a permanent roof repair. It buys you time to work with your insurance company and arrange for a full roof replacement or repair. The tarp should stay in place until the real work can be done.

• Durable tarps meant for outdoor use
• Fasteners like nails or screws with washers
• Wood battens to reinforce the tarp edges
• Seams overlapped to keep water out
• A slope created so water runs off
• Inspection of the attic for existing leaks

Your safety comes first. Do not climb onto a fire-damaged roof yourself, as the structure may be weakened and could collapse. Let the pros handle the tarping, and stay clear of the area until they say it is safe. If you feel unwell from smoke exposure, see a doctor.

Check your homeowners policy to see if emergency tarping is a covered expense. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies include coverage for temporary repairs to prevent further damage, but you will need to document the tarping and keep receipts. Your insurance company can tell you what they expect from you.

If you live in Cypress, keep your insurance policy documents handy and know what your deductible is. That way, you can move quickly if a fire happens. The tarping itself is a small step in a larger recovery process.