The short version
- Heavy rain overwhelms drainage
- Wind-driven rain gets under shingles
- Flat roofs pond quickly
- Roof leaks and flooding are different problems
Heavy rain and roofs
Intense rain sheds off a roof faster than gutters and drains can carry it. Overflowing gutters send water behind the fascia and into the walls, and flat roofs pond.
Clean gutters and drains help.
Wind-driven rain
Strong wind can push rain sideways and up under shingles, around flashing and into vents. Small gaps that never leaked before may suddenly show up.
Check the places wind attacks.
Roof leaks vs flooding
Flood water entering at ground level is a different problem from a leak through the roof. Roofs do not cause floods, but a roof leak can add to interior water damage.
Know which problem you have.
Responding
Protect belongings, find the source, cover roof openings and document. For flooding at ground level, follow guidance from emergency officials and your insurer.
Standard policies differ on what is covered.
General information, not engineering, legal, insurance or safety advice. Roofs, policies and local requirements vary, and every situation should be judged on its own facts. If anyone is in danger, call emergency services first.
