Water leaking from the ceiling can be a sign of a serious problem and should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage. If you see paint bubbling, drywall swelling, or brown rings forming in the ceiling, then you know there’s a leak you need to repair and potentially, leak damage. However, before anything gets fixed, you first need to prevent the water from spreading and causing further damage.
Here are five actions you should take when there is water leaking from the ceiling:
- Turn off the water source
The first step is to turn off the water source to prevent further water from leaking. If you are unable to locate the source of the leak, shut off the main water supply to your home. If you are living on the top floor and if it has been raining, you probably have a roof leak. If there’s no rain, you probably have a plumbing leak. If you are living in a flat and the leak seems to be coming from your neighbours’ property, then alert them ASAP ideally in writing. You may need commercial leak detection professionals to help you diagnose the problem.
- Catch the water
Place a bucket or other container under the leak to catch any water dripping from the ceiling. This will help prevent leak damage to your floor and belongings. Line the containers with some clothing or towel to prevent the falling water from splashing out when it makes contact.
- Remove any furniture or belongings
If the leak is severe, you should remove any furniture or belongings from the affected area to prevent further leak damage. If something can’t be moved, put a waterproof cover over it. A tarp or plastic sheeting works best, but if you don’t have either, you can use a vinyl tablecloth, shower curtains, a deflated paddling pool, or a waterproof tent as a covering.
- Call a professional
If the source of the leak is not obvious and is hidden and if the leak is continuing it is time to contact a professional leak detection expert who will have specialist tools and equipment to non-intrusively locate the source of the leak. A regular plumber will not be able to find a hidden leak – certainly not without causing a lot of unnecessary damage to your property. With trace and access cover on insurance policies you will be able to recover the cost of the professional leak detection under your buildings insurance.
- Document the damage
Take photos or videos of the damage for your insurance purposes. This will help you file a claim and receive compensation for any repairs to water damage caused by the leak. Insurance policies are there so you can be put back to your pre-loss condition. This is why photos from the time of the leak are very useful when assessing a claim.
Leak Tracers Direct - Commercial Leak Detection
The speed with which you act and the actions you take are important when there is water leaking from the ceiling. If you need commercial leak detection, then look no further than Leak Tracers Direct. We’re a company that uses modern technology to identify different types of water leaks and leak damage in your home so you can have the problem resolved as soon as possible. To find out more about the services we offer, get in touch with our friendly team today.