Why Tarping Matters Before Insurance Adjusters Arrive
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Preventing Secondary Damage
When a storm or accident creates an opening in your roof or walls, the immediate threat is more water getting inside. Every new rain shower or sprinkler cycle can soak insulation, ruin drywall, and warp flooring. Tarping seals that opening temporarily. This stops the damage from spreading beyond the initial leak, which simplifies the restoration process later on.
Secondary water damage often looks different from the original problem. It can cause widespread staining, mold growth in new areas, and structural softening. By covering the hole, you contain the issue to one spot. This makes it easier to understand the full scope of the original incident when the insurance evaluation takes place.
Meeting Your Insurance Obligations
Most homeowners insurance policies include a clause about mitigating further loss. This means you have a duty to take reasonable steps to protect your property after a covered event. Failing to tarp a hole could be seen as neglecting that duty. An adjuster might note that some of the damage was preventable, which can complicate your claim.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Documenting your mitigation efforts is crucial. Take clear photos of the damage before you tarp, and again after the tarp is securely in place. This visual record demonstrates your proactive steps to the adjuster, supporting your claim that you acted responsibly to limit the loss.
- Take photos of the hole and surrounding damage before covering it.
- Use a heavy-duty, waterproof tarp that extends several feet past the damaged area.
- Secure the tarp tightly with wooden lath or strapping to prevent wind from lifting it.
- Do not attempt to make permanent repairs before the adjuster's inspection.
- Keep receipts for any tarping materials you purchase.
- Focus on safety; do not climb onto a steep or unstable roof.
Preserving the Evidence for Inspection
An insurance adjuster needs to see the direct cause of the loss to accurately evaluate your claim. If a tree branch punctured your roof, that specific point of impact is key evidence. A proper tarp job protects the area around the hole from being washed away or altered by weather. This preserves the scene so the adjuster can document the original damage.
Without a tarp, wind-driven rain can erode broken shingles or enlarge the opening. This distortion makes it harder to determine the initial force and extent of the damage. A clear, contained damage site leads to a more straightforward inspection. It helps ensure the adjuster's report accurately reflects the loss you experienced.
When to Call for Professional Tarping
Tarping a high roof or a large opening can be dangerous. If the damage is extensive, or if you are uncomfortable working at height, it is wise to call local water damage pros. They have the equipment and experience to secure tarps safely and effectively. This service is often part of emergency board-up procedures after a storm.
Tarping a high or unstable roof can be dangerous. Professionals assess a structure's safety before beginning work. They use commercial-grade tarps and secure them to withstand high winds. Having a pro handle the tarping provides a documented, professional mitigation step, which can be beneficial during the insurance claims process.
The Adjuster's Visit and Next Steps
Once the property is secured, the insurance adjuster will schedule a visit. They inspect the tarped area, the interior water damage, and all affected materials. Their report details the cause of loss and the estimated cost to repair both the original damage and any subsequent damage that occurred before mitigation. Your prompt action supports a complete assessment.
After the adjuster completes their inspection, you can proceed with permanent repairs. This typically involves working with a roofer to fix the structure and local water damage pros to dry out and restore the interior. Keep all communication and documentation from the adjuster, as you will need it when coordinating with the contractors.
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Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Will my insurance cover the cost of tarping?
Many policies cover reasonable mitigation expenses like tarping. Save your receipts for materials or professional services. Submit them as part of your claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
What if I can't safely tarp the damage myself?
Your safety is most important. Do not risk injury. You can call for emergency tarping services. Taking this step still demonstrates your effort to mitigate further loss, which is a key policy requirement.
Can tarping affect my insurance claim negatively?
No, proper tarping should help your claim. It shows you acted responsibly. Just be sure to photograph the damage first. Avoid making any permanent repairs before the adjuster sees the original cause of the leak.