How to Deal With a Roof Leak

A leaking roof can quickly go from a minor nuisance to a major problem if it’s not addressed properly. Whether water is dripping from your ceiling or a mysterious stain appears on your wall, quick action is the key to minimizing damage. Here’s what to do as soon as you suspect a roof leak in your home:

Identify where the water is coming from and try to contain it. If you see bulging or damp spots on your ceiling, place a bucket underneath to catch the water. If you’re worried that the ceiling might collapse in a saturated area, gently puncture it to relieve the pressure and let the water drain into the bucket. For hardwood floors or carpet, lay down plastic or towels to protect surfaces from damage. Also, be sure to move any fabrics, rugs, electronics or furniture away from the affected areas.

Call a roofing contractor as soon as possible. Acting quickly can help you prevent mold growth and interior damage. When you call the roofer, provide as much detail as possible—mention if you’ve seen roofing material on the ground, describe the leak’s location and identify your roofing type (if you know it). The more information you can share, the better prepared the contractor will be to help you.