Water Coming Through the Ceiling: What to Do

Water through your ceiling? Stop the supply, keep clear of electrics and protect your belongings while you get help. Call 020 8050 9933, open 24/7.

Key facts

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Water coming through a ceiling is a sign of a leak above: a pipe, a tank, a bath or shower, or sometimes the roof. Stopping the supply and staying clear of electrics limits the damage and the danger.

Step 1: Stop the water supply

Turn off the main stopcock. If the leak comes from a bath, shower or washing machine above, turn them off and stop using that room.

Step 2: Keep away from electrics

Water and electricity are dangerous together. Avoid light fittings and sockets that are wet or near the leak. If it is safe to reach, switch off the circuit for that area at the consumer unit. If in doubt, leave it and call an electrician or the emergency services.

Step 3: Limit the damage

Move furniture and belongings away. Place buckets under drips and lay towels around. A ceiling that is bulging with water may collapse, so stay out from under it.

Step 4: Find where it comes from

If you live in a flat, the source may be the property above. Contact your neighbour or the managing agent. If it is your own property, the cause may be a pipe, a tank or a bathroom fitting upstairs.

Step 5: Photograph the damage

Take photos and video of the ceiling, the room and your belongings for your insurer. Keep damaged items until you have spoken to them.

Step 6: Get a plumber

Call us 24 hours a day on 020 8050 9933. A leak detection survey can find hidden leaks without opening up more than necessary.

Quick tips

Related help

Common questions

How much does leak detection cost?

A leak detection survey is typically £80 - £150 including VAT, plus the call-out fee.

What if the leak is from the flat above?

Tell the occupier and the managing agent straight away. You can still turn off your own electrics for the affected area and document the damage.

Will my insurance cover it?

Many policies cover sudden water damage, but terms differ. Check your policy and contact your insurer early.

Call 020 8050 9933