What to Do When Your Roof Is Leaking
By the Quantock Roofing team · Updated 14 June 2026
A leaking roof is stressful, but a few calm, safe steps will limit the damage and get you the right help. The most important rule: stay safe and don't go onto the roof.
Safety first
Never climb onto a wet, mossy or damaged roof, and keep away from any sagging ceiling. Working at height is genuinely dangerous — leave it to professionals with the right equipment. If there's any danger to life or signs of structural collapse, call 999.
Stay safe first
Before anything else:
- • Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof — leave height work to professionals.
- • Keep away from any ceiling that is bulging or sagging with trapped water.
- • If water is near light fittings or electrics, switch off the affected circuit at the consumer unit only if it is safe to do so.
- • If there is any danger to life or signs of structural collapse, call 999.
Limit the damage indoors
Once you're safe, you can reduce the mess:
- • Place a bucket or container under the drip, with a towel to stop splashing.
- • Move furniture, electronics and valuables out of the way — only if it's safe.
- • If a ceiling is bulging, a small pierce with a screwdriver over a bucket can release trapped water and prevent a bigger collapse — only if you can do it safely.
- • Take photos for your records and any insurance claim.
Get the right help
Call a professional roofer to inspect and repair the leak. Send photos and your postcode on WhatsApp (07379 046388) so we can advise on the next practical step and how urgent it is. We'll prioritise urgent leaks as quickly as availability and weather allow.
Why the leak isn't where the drip is
Water runs along timbers before it drips, so the damp patch inside is often well away from where the water actually gets in. That's why finding a leak properly takes a methodical look rather than a guess — and why a quick patch in the wrong place often doesn't solve it.
