Roof Leak? What to Do Now and When to Call a Roofer
Short answerFor a roof leak, catch the water with a bucket, move belongings, and stay off the roof. Look in the attic for wet insulation, stains or daylight around vents and the chimney. Things to check for include damaged flashing or shingles and backed-up gutters. A roofer should find and repair the source.
Safety first
- Do not go on the roof, especially when it is wet or windy. Check from inside and from the ground. Roof work at height is for a professional.
- Stay out from under a ceiling that sags or holds water. Turn off the power to any wet light fixture at the breaker, if you can reach it from a dry floor.
- Walk only on the joists in an attic, and bring a flashlight rather than an extension cord.
Likely causes
| Cause | How to tell | What fixes it |
|---|---|---|
| Damaged flashing | The stain is near a chimney, vent, skylight, dormer or roof edge. | A roofer seals or replaces the flashing. |
| Missing or damaged shingles | From the ground, you can see curled, loose or missing shingles, often after a storm. | A roofer replaces them and checks the layer below. |
| Clogged gutters | Water overflows at the eaves, and the stain is near the outer wall. | Have them cleaned, or see our guide on overflowing gutters for ladder and power line safety. |
| Worn roof or tree damage | Stains in several places, or branches touching the roof. | A roofer inspects it and advises on repair or replacement. Have the branches trimmed back. |
Why this is a job for a professional
- Call a roofer for any active leak. If a storm caused it, call your insurance company too, and take photos.
- You see wet insulation, repeat stains, or mold.
- Ask: where is the water getting in, and can you show me photos? Is this repairable or does it need replacing? Are you licensed and insured where my state requires it? Is the work under warranty, and do I need a permit?
What it costs to have fixed
Roof Repair is estimated at $180 to $1,550 nationally. See your state
Common questions
What should I do first when my roof is leaking?
Move things out of the way, put a bucket under the drip, and take photos. Dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours once the leak has slowed, then call a roofer.
How do I find where my roof is leaking?
Go to the attic during or after rain with a flashlight. Look for stains on the rafters, damp insulation or streaks of light around vents, chimneys and seams. Water can travel, so the source may be higher up than the ceiling stain.
Does roof leak sealant work?
We found no official source testing roof sealants. As general repair knowledge, a sealant is a stopgap at best and can hide the real cause. Have a roofer repair the source, and do not climb up to apply it yourself.
Is a roof leak covered by insurance?
It depends on the cause and your policy. As an example from Texas, the Texas Department of Insurance says policies generally cover sudden and accidental damage, and generally do not cover wear and tear or a continuous water leak. Check your own policy and your state insurance department. Source
What should I do before filing a roof leak claim?
Notify your insurer as soon as possible, since many policies have filing deadlines. As an example from Texas, the Texas Department of Insurance says to photograph or video the damage before repairs, make only temporary fixes such as a tarp, and keep your receipts. We recommend using a roofer for the tarp rather than climbing up yourself. Check your own policy and your state insurance department. Source
Can a roof leak cause mold?
Yes. The EPA says wet areas should be dried within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold, and that hidden mold can grow behind drywall or ceiling tiles. Suspect it if a room smells moldy after a leak but you cannot see the source. Source
Related repairs
- Basement Leaking When It Rains? What to Do
- Door Won't Close? How to Fix a Sticking or Sagging Door
- Foundation Cracks: Which Are Serious and What to Do
- Garage Door Spring Broken? Stop and Read This First
- Garage Door Won't Close? Check the Sensors First
- Gutters Overflowing? Why It Happens and How to Fix It
- How to Patch a Hole in Drywall: Small to Large
- Mold in Bathroom? How to Clean It and Keep It Away
Last verified 2026-11-01
Sources
- NC State Extension: Inspecting a House — Water stains on rafters, insulation, ceilings and walls; flashing; streaks of light around vents, chimneys and seams
- NC State Extension: Preventative Home Maintenance — Curled, damaged, loose or missing shingles; flashing around chimneys, vents, edges, dormers and skylights; trimming branches; gutters
- EPA: Mold Course Chapter 1 — Roof leaks as a common moisture source for mold
- CDC: About Mold — Drying wet areas within 24 to 48 hours
General information, not professional advice. Conditions, codes and prices vary. Turn off power, gas or water before any work, and hire a licensed professional when in doubt. Cost figures are our estimates, not quotes.