After a fire, a storm or a break in, a home can be left with broken windows, damaged doors and holes in the roof. Emergency board up secures those openings quickly, keeping out rain, animals and intruders until proper repairs can be made.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent fire damage restoration provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
When you need a board up
Call for a board up if any of these apply.
- Windows broken by a fire, a storm or firefighters
- Doors damaged or forced open
- Holes in the roof or walls
- A home left empty after a fire
- Damage that lets rain or animals inside
- Your insurer asks you to secure the property
What to do right now
Do not go into a damaged building until the fire department or a professional says it is safe. Stay away from broken glass and downed power lines.
- Keep a safe distance from the damaged areas
- Take photos of the openings and the damage
- Remove valuables if you can do so safely
- Tell your insurer the home needs securing
- Call a board up provider
- Keep receipts for the work
What a board up covers
Windows
Plywood or similar panels are fitted over broken windows and fixed securely.
Doors
Damaged doors are covered or secured so the home can be locked.
Roofs
Holes and damaged areas are covered with tarps held down with boards.
Fencing
In some cases, temporary fencing keeps people away from a dangerous site.
How an emergency board up works
- The provider checks that the site is safe to work on.
- Openings are measured and panels are cut to fit.
- Panels are fixed firmly so they cannot be pulled off easily.
- Roof openings are tarped and weighted with boards.
- The provider photographs the work for your insurance records.
Why board up matters for insurance
- Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps to stop further damage
- Securing the home protects it from rain and theft
- Board up costs are often part of the claim
- Keep every receipt and photo
- Ask the provider for a written record of what was done
Questions to ask before you hire
- How quickly can you get here?
- Will you tarp the roof as well as board the windows?
- Will you photograph the work for my insurer?
- Is the board up part of a larger restoration service?
- How secure will the home be once you finish?
Frequently asked questions
How fast can a home be boarded up?
Many providers offer same day board up after fires and storms. Ask about timing when you call.
Does insurance pay for board up?
Board up after a covered loss is usually treated as a reasonable step to prevent more damage and is often covered. Check with your insurer.
Can I board up the house myself?
Small openings can sometimes be covered safely, but damaged buildings can be dangerous. Roofs and upper windows are best left to professionals.
How long can boards stay up?
Until repairs are made. Board up is temporary, so plan repairs as soon as your insurer and provider agree the scope.
Learn more
Our main fire damage restoration guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Sifixit is a free referral service and does not provide home services. Calls may be answered by a partner call center or connected directly to independent local providers, who are solely responsible for their work, pricing, licensing and insurance.