When a storm opens a roof, a professional tarp limits water damage until a permanent repair can be made in dry weather. Here's how that plays out in Sonoma, what to do right now, and how to reach an independent, licensed local provider. Call (628) 336-1777 any time, or use the form on this page.
Emergency roof tarping in Sonoma: what we see
Sonoma's older homes may have steep roofs and chimneys that make tarping slower and trickier.
Sonoma's older homes may have steeper roofs, chimneys and historic details that take more care to tarp without further damage.
The local picture
Access and slope. Steepness and access determine how and when a crew can safely tarp. Sonoma spans the floor of the Sonoma Valley, with wooded hills on either side.
Neighborhoods include the Plaza area, the east and west sides of town, and nearby valley communities. Conditions vary from street to street, so a provider should look at your specific home rather than assume.
What to do right now
- Get people out of rooms under damaged or sagging ceilings.
- Catch water inside, and move belongings away.
- Photograph the damage from the ground and inside.
- Don't climb on the roof yourself.
- Call for tarping and notify your insurer.
Want a local pro to take a look?It's free for homeowners and there's no obligation.
Sonoma checklist
- Note chimney or skylight damage when you call.
- Keep tarps, buckets and plastic sheeting inside for emergencies.
- Save a roofer's number before storm season.
- Have big trees near the house evaluated.
- Know your roof type to describe it when you call.
Local resources for Sonoma
- Permits: City of Sonoma (Permit Sonoma outside city limits)
- Emergency alerts: SoCoAlert, the County's free notifications
- Sandbags: Sonoma County sandbag locations, updated during weather events
- Contractor licenses: CSLB license check
How a provider handles it
A crew secures a heavy tarp over the damaged area, anchored so it sheds water and resists wind, and documents the damage for your insurer. A permanent repair follows when weather allows. For the full picture, read our complete guide and the deep dive Roofing permits in Sonoma County. We also have a storm-season article: Roof leaking during an atmospheric river.
Before you hire anyone, check the license on the CSLB site. Here's how we vet providers.
Dealing with this right now?Tell us what's happening and we'll connect you with an independent local provider.
More for Sonoma
- Roof repair in Sonoma: our full local page
- Emergency roof tarping service
- Roof leak repair in Sonoma
- Storm and wind roof damage in Sonoma
- Roof replacement in Sonoma
- Gutter repair and cleaning in Sonoma
- Same problem nearby: emergency tarping in Glen Ellen & Kenwood, emergency tarping in Petaluma, emergency tarping in Santa Rosa
- Emergency roof tarping in every Sonoma County town
Sources
Sources checked October 18, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Can a crew tarp around a chimney?
Yes, though it takes more care.
Can tarping damage an old roof?
Done carefully, it shouldn't. Ask the crew how they'll anchor it.
How long can a tarp stay on?
Tarps are temporary. Plan the permanent repair as soon as weather and scheduling allow.
Is tarping covered by insurance?
Reasonable emergency measures are often covered as part of a claim, subject to your policy.