Roof leak repair · Tampa Bay
Roof leaking? Here's what to do first.
Water on a ceiling rarely starts directly above the stain. Protect the inside now, then get the source found and fixed by a licensed roofer.
Request a roof estimateIn the first hour
- Move furniture and electronics away from the drip and catch water in a bucket.
- If a ceiling is bulging with water, keep people clear of it.
- Photograph the stain, the drip and the outside of the roof from the ground.
- Do not climb onto a wet roof.
Where leaks usually start
Leaks tend to begin where the roof is interrupted: flashing at walls and chimneys, plumbing vent boots, skylights, valleys where two slopes meet, and fasteners on metal roofs. On flat roofs, ponding water and seams are common sources. Water can travel along decking or rafters before it shows up inside, so the visible stain is a clue, not the answer.
What a good leak repair includes
- A diagnosis of where water is entering, explained to you.
- A repair to that entry point, not only a sealant patch over the symptom.
- A check of the decking underneath for rot or soft spots.
- Clear terms on what happens if the leak returns.
Repair or replace?
One leak on an otherwise healthy roof is usually a repair. Several leaks, repeated patches or widespread wear suggest asking for a replacement estimate at the same visit so you can compare.
Questions people ask
Is a roof leak an emergency?
Water coming in during rain is urgent because it can damage decking, insulation and drywall. Choose “As soon as possible” in the form, and call a licensed roofer directly if water is pouring in.
Why does my roof only leak in heavy rain?
Wind-driven rain can push water past flashing or under shingles that stay dry in light rain. Tell the roofer when the leak happens; it helps narrow the source.
Will a leak repair need a permit?
Small repairs often don't, but rules depend on your jurisdiction and the size of the work. Ask the roofer who is responsible for any permit.