Key facts: Leaking Ceiling
- Sagging means water is pooling above.
- Shut off nearby electrics only from a dry place.
- Stains can appear far from the real source.
What to do first
- 1
Clear the area
Move furniture, rugs and electronics.
- 2
Check for sagging
A bulge holds water and weight, so stay out of the room.
- 3
Turn off the water
If it's plumbing, close the main.
- 4
Catch the water
Use buckets, and lay towels and plastic.
- 5
Look above
Check the bathroom, attic or unit overhead.
- 6
Call
Get help if it's spreading or you can't find the source.
Leaking Ceiling at a glance
Plumbing, roof or condensation?
Timing is the best clue. Leaks that appear in rain point to the roof, flashing or a window above. Leaks that appear when someone showers or runs a washer point to drains or supply lines. A constant drip with no pattern suggests a pressurized supply line. In summer, a stain under an attic air handler may be a clogged condensate drain.
Water travels along joists and pipes, so the stain might be several feet from the actual leak. A moisture meter or thermal camera can trace the path without opening much of the ceiling.
Should you poke a hole in a bulging ceiling?
You'll see this advice online, but it carries real risk. If the bulge is small and clearly filled with clean water, a professional may drain it in a controlled way. Electrical fixtures may be nearby, plaster can be heavy, and the ceiling could come down. When in doubt, keep the room clear and call.
FAQ
Ceiling leak questions
Who pays if the leak comes from the apartment above?
It depends on the lease and policies, so notify the landlord and document it.
Can a wet ceiling dry out?
Sometimes, if it's firm and the source is fixed quickly. Sagging drywall usually needs replacing.