Water leaks can result in costly repairs and water damage. When you see water coming through the ceiling, remedying the issue quickly can reduce the damage done, and the cost to repair. Here is what to do when you see water coming through your ceiling:
Determine Potential Water Sources
Addressing the water leak starts by determining what is causing the leak. Common sources of water leaking through a ceiling are:
- Roof Leaks
- Broken Water Pipes
- Clogged Air Conditioning Condensation Lines
While it can be challenging to know for sure what is leaking, you can often narrow it down.
Did the leak start at the same time there was a rainstorm? That may indicate you’ve got a roof leak.
Is your air conditioner currently running? If not, it’s likely not an issue with condensation lines being clogged.
Is there a large amount of water coming through, or not one of the other two sources? That may indicate a plumbing leak. If it’s possibly a plumbing leak – it’s time to turn off the water to the house until you can get a plumber out to diagnose the issue.
Contacting the Right Trades
After you’ve narrowed down the potential source of the leak, then it’s time to get some help getting it stopped.
Depending on the source, you need one of three trades to address the issue:
- Plumber: Finds the pipe that is leaking and repairs it
- Roofer: Reviews the roof, and performs a roof repair
- HVAC Company: Cleans out the condensation line for the air conditioner, restoring flow
Have multiple possibilities for where the water is coming from? As a general rule of thumb, a plumber is usually a good first choice, if pipes haven’t already been ruled out as a potential water source.
Addressing Drywall and Other Damage
Each of these trades typically addresses the source of the water leak, but doesn’t have the capability to put everything back together. And, sometimes, they will actually need to cut holes in the walls themselves to address the source of the leak. Additional drywall repair may be needed afterward.
A handyman company can be an excellent choice to address the drywall, paint, and other small repairs needed to put your home back together after a leak.
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