Stay away from wet electrical fixtures, outlets, panels and sagging ceilings. Do not climb onto a wet or storm-damaged roof. If the structure appears unsafe, leave the affected area.
Start with the source
Water entering near the ceiling, roofline, skylight or exterior wall during weather points more strongly toward roofing or exterior-envelope work.
A leak that changes when a toilet, shower, sink, appliance or water line is used may be a plumbing problem instead.
Wet drywall, insulation, flooring, cabinets or multiple rooms can require extraction and controlled drying even after the source is stopped.
If it is safe, photograph visible damage and note when you first noticed it. Avoid opening walls, ceilings or electrical equipment yourself.
Match the work to the problem.
- Roofer: rain-related roof, flashing, tile, membrane or exterior roof leak.
- Plumber: supply line, drain, fixture or appliance-related water source.
- Restoration: significant wet materials, extraction, drying or damage mitigation.
- You may need both source repair and restoration when water has already spread.