Ceiling water damage can cause a range of issues if not properly addressed, from structural issues to mold growth to compromised indoor air quality. Keeping an eye out for early signs can help you catch the problem and organize the required repairs as soon as possible.
The telling signs of ceiling water damage will depend on the extent and source of the problem. Of course, there are some obvious signs, such as damp spots or visibly dripping or leaking water, but here are some common, less obvious early signs to look out for.
Discoloration
Spots and stains on the ceiling are clear signs of water damage. Usually yellow or brown in color, these stains start small but can gradually spread if the source of the problem isn’t fixed.
Water stains on upper walls
Visible water stains may be an obvious sign of water damage, but the damage may not be located precisely where the stains display. Water can sometimes travel horizontally along the ceiling before dripping down. If you notice water stains or discoloration on the upper parts of your walls close to the ceiling, it may be a sign of ceiling water damage.
Cracks
Cracks in the ceiling can be a sign of water infiltration. This is commonly seen around light fixtures, along with staining.
Visible damage
When water absorbs into a ceiling material, it commonly starts to sag and warp due to the added weight and structural damage. As moisture seeps through paint layers, it will often cause the paint to peel, bubble, or blister. Spotting any of these on your ceiling is a good indication that there may be excess moisture in the area. If your ceiling is made of drywall, it may crack, warp, or bubble in response to exposure to moisture.
Visible mold growth
Once a surface is damp, mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours. If you see any mold patches on your ceiling, there’s likely a moisture problem that needs addressing.
Musty odor
Even without any physical signs of water damage, a musty or moldy smell in a specific area can indicate that moisture is present and possibly causing hidden damage.
If you observe any of these signs, it’s important to investigate the possible source of water intrusion as soon as possible.
Who to call for water damage on the ceiling
If you’re unsure about the source or extent of the damage, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional contractor or water damage specialist. Even if you know where the problem stems from, it is still beneficial to bring in a specialist to carry out the repair work to ensure it’s completed correctly.
Water damage in a house
If you’ve spotted early signs of water damage in a house you own, you may need to contact your homeowners’ insurance provider. The provider may need to be aware of the problem before it is resolved to compensate for the repair costs. Some providers require you to use a specific contractor or company for the repairs, so this is important to know early on to ensure you receive the right compensation.
If you rent a house, you should contact your landlord or real estate agent to determine the best next steps. It may be in your contract that damage of this nature is your own responsibility, but it may be down to the landlord to organize suitable repairs.
Multifamily housing and water damage
Living in a multi-dwelling unit (MDU) requires a different approach to those living in a house, as ceiling water damage may be caused by a problem within someone else’s home if there are other residential units above yours. In these instances, it is usually best to contact your property manager to advise you of the next steps. Similarly to those in a rental house, the property manager of an MDU may have the responsibility to source the right contractor to carry out repairs.
Water damage in commercial properties
If you spot signs of ceiling water damage in a commercial property, your next steps will depend on whether you own or lease the property. If you own it, report your concerns to your insurance provider and await their advice for tackling the issue. For rentals, contact your landlord or real estate agent to highlight the issue and receive guidance on what to do next.
No matter what your situation, if the responsibility is yours to find the source of the moisture and organize repairs, contact a reputable professional for assistance.
The Powerhouse team are experts in water restoration for both home and business. We can help with everything from mold remediation to odor removal, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.