Water dripping from the ceiling is stressful, but the first hour can make a real difference to the final repair bill. Here is what to do, in order.
1. Make the area safe
If water is near light fixtures, outlets or appliances, stay away from that area and turn off the power at the breaker if you can reach it safely. A bulging, sagging ceiling can come down without warning, so keep people and pets out from under it.
2. Catch the water
Put buckets or bins under the drips and lay towels around them. Move furniture, rugs and electronics out of the way, or cover them with plastic sheeting.
3. Relieve a bulging ceiling, carefully
If a ceiling is holding a pocket of water and you can reach it safely from the floor, some contractors suggest making a small hole at the lowest point with a screwdriver to let the water drain into a bucket. Do not do this near a light fixture, and never if the ceiling looks close to collapse.
4. Take photos
Before you clean up, photograph the leak, the stains and anything damaged. Note the date and time. If this turns into an insurance claim, these photos will matter.
5. Stay off the roof
A wet roof is slippery and storm damage can hide weak spots. Leave the roof to a professional crew, especially at night.
6. Call for emergency help
Call (512) 555-0123 any time, day or night. We will ask what you are seeing, tell you what to do while we are on the way, and make the roof watertight as soon as it is safe to do so. Learn more about our emergency roof repair service.
