When it counts as an emergency
Not every roof fault needs someone on site within hours, but some genuinely do. If rain is actively dripping into a room, if a gale has stripped slates or ridge tiles, or if something has fallen onto the roof and broken through, the risk of damage inside the building climbs quickly with every downpour.
In those situations, Swift Roofing offers same-day emergency call-outs across Glasgow and the surrounding area. Availability depends on the day's existing work and the distance involved, which is why a phone call is always the fastest route. Email is fine for planned work, but it is too slow when water is already getting in.
- Water dripping through a ceiling or light fitting
- Slates, tiles or ridges blown off in high winds
- Flashing torn away from a chimney or wall
- Impact damage from a fallen branch or debris
- A flat roof covering split or lifted by a storm
What to do while you wait
The first job is keeping people safe. If a ceiling is sagging or bulging with water, keep everyone out of that room, because wet plasterboard can give way without warning. Switch off power to any circuit where water is near light fittings or sockets.
Next, limit the damage. Move furniture, electronics and anything precious away from the leak and put buckets or towels down to catch the water. If it is safe to reach the loft, a container under the drip there can stop it soaking through to the room below. Take a few photos for your insurer.
Please do not climb onto the roof yourself, especially in wind or rain. Wet slates are extremely slippery and most roofing accidents happen to homeowners trying a quick fix. Leave the height work to someone with proper access equipment.
What happens on arrival
Richard will check where the water is entering and how widespread the damage is. The aim on the first visit is always to make the roof watertight. Sometimes that means a complete repair there and then, such as refixing a few slipped slates or replacing a short run of lead.
Where the damage is more extensive, or the weather makes proper work unsafe, a temporary weatherproofing measure goes in first so the building is protected. You will then be told what the permanent repair involves, and it can be booked in for a suitable day.
About the call-out fee
Emergency attendance carries a call-out fee, reflecting the fact that other work is dropped at short notice to reach you. The fee is explained on the phone before anyone travels, so there are no surprises when the van arrives. Any repair work beyond the initial visit is discussed and agreed separately.
If your problem can safely wait a day or two, a planned repair is usually the better choice and avoids the emergency charge altogether. Richard will happily tell you honestly which category your situation falls into.
Homes and businesses
A leaking roof over a shop floor, office or warehouse can halt trading, so emergency help is available for commercial customers as well as homeowners. Swift Roofing carries public liability insurance and is based in central Glasgow, typically covering properties within around 30 miles.