Roof leak or ceiling drip: what to do first

What to note and photograph safely

• When the leak started
• Whether it follows rain or water use
• Where it drips and whether the ceiling bulges
• Whether the water is near lights or sockets
• Photos taken from inside, at a distance

Step by step

1. 1

   Move everyone away from the ceiling

   Inside, under the drip

   If the ceiling bulges or looks damaged, move people away and protect mattresses and furniture from a safe spot. Don't go up on the roof or use a ladder to look for the source.

2. 2

   Treat electricity as a danger

   If water is near a light or socket

   Water near electricity can give you a shock. Don't touch a wet socket or bulb, and let a qualified professional deal with it.

3. 3

   Note when it drips

   From a safe spot

   Note whether the leak follows rain or water use, and photograph the inside. It helps the plumber or roofer know where to start.

4. 4

   Call the right maâlem (tradesman)

   Plumber or roofer, depending on the cause

   Ask for an inspection, the likely cause and what the repair includes. No waterproofing product guarantees the result on its own; get the price in writing before work starts.

Questions people ask