Emergency roof tarping after a hurricane: questions before work begins

Leave roof access to trained professionals

Storm-damaged roofs can expose workers to falls, unstable surfaces, and electrical hazards. OSHA identifies roof inspection and tarping as work requiring hazard assessment and appropriate protection. This guide does not provide instructions for climbing onto or fastening a tarp to a roof.

Reference: OSHA: Roof inspection, tarping, and repair

Confirm service before assuming help is on the way

Ask the company to confirm your address, access conditions, the work it can consider, and the scheduling process. Ask what happens if wind, rain, road closures, or site conditions prevent attendance. A submitted web form or a general service-area listing is not a confirmed appointment.

Get a written temporary-work scope

Before authorizing work, ask for a clear description of what is included:

• The area the contractor proposes to protect and any areas it cannot safely reach.
• The price, payment terms, and whether later visits are included.
• How the installation will be documented, including photos where safe.
• What limitations remain and who to contact if water enters again.
• How temporary protection will be removed or addressed during permanent repairs.

Keep the record with the permanent repair plan

Save the temporary-work estimate, invoice, photos, and completion date together. Ask your insurer what records it requires. Temporary protection does not establish coverage or replace a permanent repair assessment.

Reference: Florida DFS: Disaster insurance questions

Ask about the next inspection

Arrange a follow-up discussion about the underlying roof condition. Ask whether the roofer could see all relevant areas, whether additional assessment is needed, and how the permanent scope differs from the temporary work. Do not assume a tarp means the entire building is safe to occupy.

Common questions

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