Overview
- Roofers report top workload as melting snow exposes leaks, with crews prioritizing emergencies and postponing planned jobs.
- Trade body Techniek Nederland expects many failures in gutters, water pipes and sewers as the thaw reveals frost damage.
- Ice expansion during the cold snap likely cracked pipes, gutters and connections, with leaks typically appearing only once temperatures rise.
- Homeowners are urged to inspect gutters and drains, watch for damp spots or falling water pressure, shut the main valve if a leak appears, and hire recognized contractors.
- Some flat roofs already failed under heavy snow and certain stores closed as a precaution, and immediate repairs can be delayed by slippery, unsafe roof conditions.