Water Leaking From the Ceiling: What to Do and Who to Call

What are the 5 sources of water leaking from the ceiling?

The 5 sources of water leaking from the ceiling are listed below.

• A supply or drain pipe leaks above the ceiling.
• A toilet wax ring leaks into the floor below.
• A shower valve, drain or tub seal leaks.
• A washing machine or water heater overflows on the floor above.
• A roof leak runs down after rain.

Is water leaking from the ceiling an emergency?

Yes, water leaking from the ceiling is an emergency, because the ceiling holds water until it sags or collapses and the water reaches light fixtures.

What should you do first when water leaks from the ceiling?

The 4 things you should do first when water leaks from the ceiling are listed below.

1. Turn off the breaker for lights in the wet area.
2. Close the main water valve.
3. Put a bucket under the drip and move furniture away.
4. Call a plumber when the leak follows water use, and a roofer when it follows rain.

When should you call a plumber?

You should call a plumber in the 4 situations below.

• The drip continues after the water is off.
• The leak follows a shower or a toilet flush.
• The ceiling sags or bulges.
• Water reaches a light fixture.

Related plumbing problems and next steps

How much does the plumbing repair cost?

The plumbing repair cost depends on the source: pipe repair in a ceiling costs about $675, according to HomeAdvisor. Burst pipe repair prices and local plumbers are on the burst pipe repair in Lancaster, PA page.

What is a related plumbing problem?

A related plumbing problem is pipe burst in house what to do, and the pipe burst in house what to do guide lists its causes and first steps.

Written and fact-checked by the Lancaster PA Plumbers editorial team using HomeAdvisor, EPA WaterSense and City of Lancaster data. Last updated October 29, 2026.