What is a temporary make safe?
A temporary make safe is the swift set of measures we carry out to stabilise a damaged roof and stop water getting in. After storms or sudden leaks, the priority is to protect your home from further harm. A make safe is not the final repair. It buys time, keeps your property secure and allows us to plan a lasting fix with the right materials and access.
Here in Midhurst we see all types of roofs, from clay tile and slate to flat felt systems on extensions. Whether you are in the town centre or near Easebourne, a prompt make safe from our Roofing Midhurst team helps reduce disruption and avoids bigger repair bills later.
What does a make safe visit include?
Rapid assessment and risk control
We start with a visual inspection of the roof and loft where safe to do so. We identify the source of water ingress, check for loose tiles or ridge damage, and look for any immediate hazards like unstable chimneys or fallen branches. If required we set up safe access with ladders or a mobile tower, then cordon off areas below to protect people and vehicles.
Weatherproofing methods we use
The aim is to shed water quickly and keep it out until permanent work can take place. Depending on the roof type and weather, we may use a mix of the following:
- Heavy duty tarpaulins fixed under the laps of tiles or over sheets on flat roofs
- Emergency patching of flat roofs using cold applied bitumen or reinforced tape
- Temporary flashing to abutments and chimneys using self adhesive lead substitute
- Replacement or re-seating of slipped tiles and slates with clips and temporary fixings
- Overboarding small areas with treated ply to bridge holes
- Clearing blocked gutters and valleys to restore water flow
For listed or heritage properties common in Midhurst, we work carefully to protect historic materials and fabric while still achieving a watertight result.
Protecting the inside of your home
Inside, we can install temporary sheeting beneath the affected area, set up drip trays, and advise on safe power isolation if water is near electrics. Keeping the loft ventilated helps reduce condensation and mould while the roof dries.
How a make safe protects your property
Water is the quickest route to bigger problems. A well executed make safe helps prevent saturated insulation, ceiling collapse, damaged plasterwork, swollen timbers and mould growth. By directing water away from vulnerable points and sealing obvious breaches, we protect structural elements and reduce the scope of the eventual repair.
For businesses and landlords in Midhurst it also keeps premises operational and limits downtime, which is vital after a storm event.
How long does it last and what happens next?
A make safe is designed to withstand typical weather for the short to medium term. In most cases it will hold for days to a few weeks. We will book a follow up visit to complete permanent repairs once materials, scaffolding and any permissions are in place. You will receive a clear quote with options where appropriate, for example spot repair versus wider renewal.
Insurance, photos and paperwork
If you plan to claim on insurance, we can document damage with photos and provide a written report detailing the cause, the emergency measures taken and the recommended remedial works. Insurers usually prefer prompt action to prevent further loss, which is exactly what a make safe provides.
When should you call us?
Call as soon as you notice missing tiles, visible daylight in the loft, damp patches that spread quickly, or water tracking along beams during rain. If the roof has been struck by a tree or you suspect structural movement, keep clear of the area and contact us urgently. We provide priority attendance during bad weather across Midhurst and nearby villages.
Why choose our local team
We are experienced with West Sussex roof types, from traditional clay tile to modern membranes. We arrive with the right emergency materials, work safely, and communicate clearly so you know what is happening at each stage. Our goal is to stabilise your roof quickly then deliver a durable repair that suits your home and budget.
If you need fast, dependable help today, speak to the local experts at Roofing Midhurst. We will keep the weather out and your property protected while we plan the perfect long term fix.