Ice Dams on Your Massachusetts Roof? Here's What to Do
Ice dams form when heat leaking into the attic melts roof snow that refreezes at the cold eaves, backing water under the shingles. They're common across Western Mass in snowy winters. Removal is a short-term fix; air sealing, insulation and ventilation stop them, and Mass Save offers 75 to 100 percent off approved insulation and air sealing.
What to look for
- Thick ridges of ice along the roof edge and gutters
- Large icicles hanging from the eaves
- Water stains or drips on ceilings and exterior walls
- Peeling paint or wet insulation near the eaves
- Mold or rot in the attic along the roof edge
What it costs
| What | Typical cost | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Professional ice dam removal | $650 to $2,400, about $1,200 on average (national average) | angi.com |
| Steam removal | $800 to $2,400 (national average) | angi.com |
| Heat cables | $500 to $4,600 (national average) | angi.com |
| Roof replacement if shingles and sheathing are damaged | $5,902 to $46,000, about $9,609 on average (national average) | angi.com |
Ranges are published estimates; your quote depends on the house. Get two or three written quotes.
Massachusetts rules to know
- The Massachusetts residential code requires an ice barrier from the lowest roof edges to at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall line on one- and two-family homes and townhouses. (source: mass.gov)
- Roofing is covered by a specialty construction supervisor license (Roof Covering) in Massachusetts. (source: mass.gov)
- The Division of Insurance says ice dam damage may be covered as long as it was sudden and didn't result from a lack of maintenance. (source: mass.gov)
- Mass Save offers 75 to 100 percent off approved insulation and air sealing for customers of participating utilities in 1 to 4 unit homes, starting with a no-cost Home Energy Assessment. (source: masssave.com)
Who to call
- An ice dam removal company that uses low-pressure steam
- A roofer with a Massachusetts construction supervisor license and HIC registration. Check a CSL: madpl.mylicense.com; check HIC: services.oca.state.ma.us
- A Mass Save Home Energy Assessment (866-527-SAVE) for insulation and air sealing
- Your insurance agent if water got inside
DIY or hire a pro?
Raking snow off the lower roof from the ground with a roof rake is a safe DIY step. Chopping ice or climbing an icy roof is dangerous, so hire a pro to steam off dams and a licensed roofer for repairs.
If fixing it is more than you want to take on
Fixing the attic insulation and any roof or ceiling damage before listing helps, and Mass Save incentives can lower the cost. You can also sell as-is with an agent and disclose past leaks. A cash buyer can take the house with roof and water damage, but the price will reflect the repairs.
Want a cash offer on the house as it is?
Western Mass Cash Home Buyers buys houses as-is across Western Massachusetts: no repairs, no cleanout, no fees. You pick the closing date.
Common questions
Does homeowners insurance cover ice dam damage in Massachusetts?
Often, if the damage was sudden and not caused by poor maintenance, according to the Division of Insurance. Check your policy and report damage quickly.
How much does ice dam removal cost?
Angi's national average is about $1,200, with most jobs between $650 and $2,400. Winter emergency calls can cost more.
How do I prevent ice dams?
Seal air leaks into the attic, add insulation and keep the roof cold with good ventilation. A roof rake helps after big storms.
Is ice and water shield required in Massachusetts?
Yes, the residential code requires an ice barrier from the eaves to at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall on one- and two-family homes.
Does Mass Save help with ice dams?
Mass Save doesn't remove ice dams, but its insulation and air sealing offer, 75 to 100 percent off approved work, targets a main cause.
Related guides: Foundation problems · Roof replacement · Water damage & burst pipes · Fire damage · Wet basement · Rot & sagging floors · all house problem guides
Sources
Checked September 2026: angi.com · angi.com · mass.gov · mass.gov · mass.gov · masssave.com · mass.gov · services.oca.state.ma.us
General information, not legal, tax, medical or engineering advice. Rules and prices change; confirm with the agency or a licensed professional.