How Much Does an Emergency Roofer Cost in the UK (2025 Guide)

When your roof suddenly starts leaking at 2am or tiles blow off in a storm, the last thing you want is a guessing game about cost. Emergency roof repairs don’t come cheap, but they also don’t have to leave you in the dark. Here’s a straight-talking guide to what you can expect to pay in Lancashire and Greater Manchester, what affects the price, and how to make sure you’re not getting stung by cowboy roofers.

Quick Answer: Typical Emergency Roofer Costs

• Call-out fee (out of hours): £80–£150

• Minor patch/temporary repair: £100–£250

• Tile/slate replacement: £150–£400+

• Flat roof patching (felt or rubber): £200–£500

• Major leak containment or structural repair: £500–£1,500+

Note: These are 2025 averages for North West England. Prices can climb higher in London or during severe weather peaks.

What Affects the Cost of an Emergency Roofer?

Not all roof emergencies cost the same. A simple slipped tile will hit your wallet very differently than a collapsed ridge or storm-damaged flat roof. Here are the main factors that push costs up or down:

• Time of Call – Night-time or weekend call-outs usually cost more than daytime visits.

• Severity of Damage – A missing tile is cheaper than a collapsed ridge or chimney.

• Access to Your Roof – Steep, high, or awkward roofs need more labour and equipment.

• Roofing Materials – uPVC sheets or felt patches cost far less than slate, lead, or specialist finishes.

• Weather Conditions – Dangerous conditions (heavy rain, high winds) can extend labour and increase cost.

• Temporary vs Permanent Fix – Emergency repairs may stop the leak short-term, with a follow-up permanent repair later.

Do Roofers Charge a Call-Out Fee?

Yes – most emergency roofers add a call-out charge to cover travel, urgency, and unsociable hours. A fair rate in Lancashire and Manchester is usually under £150, though you’ll want to confirm before booking.

Emergency Roofer Cost Examples in Lancashire

Sometimes it’s easier to picture real jobs than just numbers. Here are a few recent scenarios from around Lancashire and Greater Manchester to show how prices can play out in practice:

• Blackburn terrace roof leak at 1am: Emergency tarp and tile replacement next day – £220.

• Manchester semi with storm-damaged ridge tiles: Immediate stabilisation + scaffold follow-up – £950.

• Bury flat garage roof puncture: Night-time patch with EPDM material – £320.

These real-world scenarios show how jobs can range from a couple of hundred pounds to over a grand depending on severity.

Hidden or Additional Expenses to Watch For

The repair bill isn’t always the whole story. From scaffolding to temporary tarps, there are extras that can sneak onto your invoice if you’re not prepared:

• Temporary tarping or boarding to contain leaks overnight.

• Scaffolding or tower hire for safe access.

• Waste removal if large amounts of damaged material need stripping.

• Follow-up permanent repairs after initial emergency work.

A good roofer will be upfront about whether tonight’s fix is permanent or just a stopgap.

How to Avoid Overpaying (or Hiring a Cowboy)

Roof emergencies are stressful, which makes it easy to rush into the wrong choice. Here’s how to protect yourself from inflated prices - and the all-too-common cowboy roofer tricks:

• Compare quotes quickly – even two phone calls can save you ££.

• Check insurance – your policy may cover storm damage.

• Look for local reviews – a roofer trusted in Accrington is less likely to disappear.

• Ask about guarantees – even emergency patches should come with assurance.

FAQs About Emergency Roofer Costs

We get asked the same questions all the time when homeowners face a sudden leak. Here are the straight answers, no jargon, to help you feel more in control:

Is roof repair an emergency?

If water is entering your home, electrics are exposed, or structural damage is possible – yes, it’s an emergency.

Why are roofers so expensive?

Emergency work means fast response, out-of-hours labour, and sometimes dangerous conditions. You’re paying for availability and safety as much as materials.

Should I pay a deposit for emergency roofing?

For small jobs, usually not. For larger works requiring scaffolding or materials, a reasonable deposit may be requested – but avoid anyone asking for full payment upfront.

Are emergency repairs covered by insurance?

Storm damage often is, but wear-and-tear isn’t. Always check your policy wording.

Final Word: Straight Answers, Fair Pricing

Emergency roof repairs are stressful enough without worrying about hidden fees. At Daniel Roofing And Guttering, we keep things simple: fast response across Lancashire and Manchester, clear pricing, and guaranteed workmanship. No cowboys, no “one-price-on-the-phone, another-on-the-day” nonsense.

📞 Need urgent roofing help? Call us 24/7 on 07922 564912 for a free quote.