Roof leaking - unable to get any contractors round. What do you do?

[bedpicnic]

I posted a week or so ago about a possible roof leak that has now been confirmed and has suddenly much more pressing and in need of repair. In tge space of a week I've contacted 20+ roofers and either they're saying they can't visit due to being so busy or just don't get back.
What do you do in this situation? The roof/leak is getting considerably worse and I'm desperate to get it fixed before it does more damage, but unsure who to turn to if not one roofer can even come round to quote, let alone fix.
Does anyone know what to do?

Insurance?

Depending on the problem could you do it yourself? I've done various roofing jobs on my roof with a bit of common sense and research on how first. Saved myself a packet and I know the jobs done well.

@Lightswitch123 Unless i'm mistaken, doesn't insurance only cover storm/falling trees, etc when it comes to a roof? We moved here 10 months ago, the roof is 50+ years old, I think. Surely it comes under wear and tear, which our insurance does not cover. Is this right?

As a stop gap we put up a tarpaulin, which may be difficult depending on the type of roof. If the repair is relatively "simple", is it worth looking for a general contractor/builder?

@TopCatsTopHat I'm not knowledgeable about roofs or how to go about fixing them or getting up on the roof with confidence, nor is my OH. We think the problem is in the valley but then what to do with that information, let alone how to go about fixing is unfortunately beyond us.

Roofers are very busy ATM, OH is one. They're also having problems sourcing materials, so everything is taking longer than usual.

I don't know what to advise tbh OP, other than keep trying them. They're a funny breed roofers, facing peril everyday makes them a bit blasé about normal things like returning phone calls

Good luck

Forgot to say, they will be even busier than usual with the amount of rain we've had. All the little leaks become bigger and more noticeable, so more calls for them.

Oh dear! We just moved into a new house and the monsoon has highlighted a number of leaks. Glad to know now rather than later the extent of the issues!

But now to find a contractor!

Call a local scaffolding company for advice. You will probably need scaffolding anyway and they know and work with all the local roofers. Give them a ring and talk to the boss. They will know who's busy and will pass your job on.