Roof Leaking in the Middle of the Night: What to Do

The sound of dripping at night is stressful. These steps help contain the water until a crew can protect the roof.

Contain the Water

Place buckets or pots under drips and lay towels around them. Move furniture, rugs and electronics out of the area.

If water runs along a wall or into a light fixture, turn off power to that room at the breaker.

Protect the Ceiling

A ceiling that bulges with water is holding a lot of weight. Put a bucket under it and, if you can do so safely, make a small hole at the lowest point to let the water out in a controlled way.

Stay clear of the area below the bulge as you do it.

Plan the Call

Note when the leak started, where it is and how heavy it is. Take photos. Then call a roofer, who can often protect the roof and plan the repair as soon as conditions are safe.

Avoid climbing up in the dark or the rain.