Roof leaking? What to do and what usually causes it
Practical first steps when water comes through the ceiling, and the most common causes we find.
First steps
Move furniture and belongings away, catch water with buckets and towels, and switch off electrics near the leak. If the ceiling is bulging, keep clear of it.
Don't go onto the roof yourself – wet roofs are extremely dangerous.
Common causes
Slipped or cracked tiles, failed lead flashing around chimneys and walls, blocked valleys, perished felt under the tiles, and splits in flat roof coverings.
The place water shows inside is not always directly below the problem – water can travel along timbers before it drips.
When to call a roofer
As soon as you can. Small leaks soak insulation and rot timbers quickly, turning a simple repair into a bigger job.