Water usually leaks through a ceiling because a pipe, fixture, or appliance above it is leaking. In apartment and condo buildings, the source is often the unit directly upstairs, though it can also be a shared pipe inside the walls.
Common Sources Above You
- A toilet seal that has failed
- A shower or tub drain that leaks
- A cracked supply line under a sink
- A washing machine or dishwasher hose
- A pipe running through the floor
Bathrooms are the most common source. If the stain is right under a bathroom, start your search there.
When It Is Not Plumbing
Not every ceiling leak comes from pipes. A leak on the top floor may come from the roof or a window. Condensation from cooling lines can also drip. A plumber can help rule plumbing in or out.
What to Do Right Away
Keep people out from under any spot that is sagging or bulging. Place a bucket under the drip and move furniture and electronics out of the way. Do not use lights or fans in a wet ceiling. If water is near a light fixture, turn off power to that area at the breaker if it is safe.
Get the Right People Involved
If you live in a building, call your super or management office and let your upstairs neighbor know. They may not realize anything is wrong. In a house, check the room above and close the valve to any fixture that looks wet.
The ceiling needs to dry fully before it is patched and painted. Take photos for your records in case you need them for insurance.
Once you know where the water is coming from, the leaking pipe or fixture upstairs can be repaired. For help, call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840. After the ceiling dries, regular checks of the bathroom above can catch the next drip early.