Dealing with water leaking from the ceiling is no small feat, and it’s crucial to call in an expert as soon as possible to mitigate the cause and repair the damage. If you’re looking for information on who to call for a leak in the ceiling, these factors will help you determine where the leak is coming from and who to contact next.
Before you pick up the phone, try to contain the leak to minimize damage. A plumber or roofing contractor can usually get to your home quickly, but during a storm or a major plumbing issue like a burst pipe in an apartment building, local pros might be swamped. Narrow down the cause by noting which floor the leak is on and checking for visible damage to your roof or plumbing. Whether it’s a roof or plumbing issue, a roofing contractor or plumber can stop the leak, handle ceiling repair, and restore your home’s comfort and safety.
Ceiling Leaks on the Top Floor: Call a Roofing Contractor
Water damage on the top floor ceiling often points to a leaking roof. If you suspect this, your first call should be to a roofing contractor. They’ll confirm if the roof is the culprit and figure out the best way to fix it. Typically, they’ll start by tarping the roof to block more water from getting in, then inspect both the interior and exterior of the roof. If the leak stems from storm damage, repairs might have to wait until the weather clears up.
Pro Tip: Check your attic for clues before the contractor arrives. Look for wet insulation or dark spots on the roof decking—these can confirm a roof leak and help the pro pinpoint the problem faster.
Signs of a Leaking Roof
Even a tiny water spot on your ceiling is a red flag—there’s no such thing as “minor” ceiling water damage. A leaky roof might show up as missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or water stains on the top floor ceiling. A quick trip to the attic can reveal water spots or damp roof decking that aren’t visible from outside. If your home recently weathered a storm or severe weather, the odds of a roof-related leak skyrocket.
Lower-Level Leaks: Contact a Plumber
Wet or stained ceilings on lower floors usually scream plumbing trouble. If the leak is above a bathroom, kitchen, living room, or dining room, call a professional plumber. They’ll inspect the area, track down the leak’s source—maybe a cracked pipe or a sneaky slow drip—and fix it with the right tools. Many plumbers offer warranties, so if the leak reappears, they’ll return to address it at no extra cost.
Added Insight: Plumbing leaks can be deceptive. A small drip might seem harmless, but over time, it can weaken drywall or even your home’s framing. If you spot a leak in a room with recent renovations, like a new bathroom fixture, mention it to the plumber—it could point to a faulty installation.
Signs of Leaking Plumbing
Beyond obvious stains or dripping water, watch for musty smells, mold, mildew, or discolored floors and ceilings. These are telltale signs of a plumbing issue. Excess moisture or a persistent damp odor could mean a hidden leak that’s out of your control. Left unchecked, water damage can weaken your home’s structure or spark mold growth, which is a headache you don’t want.
Control the Leak First
When you spot a ceiling leak, your first move is to contain it. Grab a bucket or waterproof container to catch dripping water and protect your floors or furniture. Move or cover nearby furniture, mop up any water on the floor, and consider poking a small hole in the ceiling to direct the water and prevent it from spreading. If you can safely shut off your home’s water supply, do it—it could save you from a bigger mess.
Quick Note: If you’re poking a hole in the ceiling, use a screwdriver or something small to avoid damaging wiring or pipes. And don’t stand directly under the drip—water damage is bad enough without a soggy surprise.
Hire a Water Damage Restoration Company
Once the leak is under control, it’s time to call a water damage restoration company. These pros have industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and mold-prevention sprays to dry out wet areas like carpets, rugs, or flooring. They’ll remove damaged drywall, replace it, and handle patching, painting, or reinstalling fixtures to restore your space. A good restoration company ensures the damage doesn’t spread and your home looks as good as new.
Extra Tip: Ask the restoration company about air quality testing after repairs. Lingering moisture can lead to mold spores that aren’t visible yet, and catching them early can prevent health issues down the road.
Will Homeowners Insurance Cover Ceiling Leaks?
If the leak comes from a sudden event—like a storm or a pipe bursting from freezing temperatures—homeowners insurance might cover the repair costs. But if the leak is due to neglected maintenance, like an aging roof you’ve ignored, you’re likely out of luck. Review your policy to understand what’s covered. Insurance companies will investigate the leak’s cause before paying out, and damages from floods, earthquakes, or mold often aren’t included. If a damaged roof caused the leak, your policy might also cover roof repairs.
Practical Advice: Document everything before repairs start—take photos of the damage, keep receipts for any buckets or tarps you buy, and note when you first noticed the leak. This can make the insurance claim process smoother and help justify your case.
Don’t ignore water stains on your ceiling—painting over them won’t fix the problem. Whether it’s a roofing issue, a plumbing problem, or something else, act fast to limit damage and get the right professional on the job. A roofing contractor, plumber, or water damage restoration team can pinpoint the issue, fix it, and bring your home back to normal. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you to solve the problem before it grows.