Water Dripping From the Ceiling: What to Do Right Now
By Top Florida Plumbers · Updated 2026-11-08
A ceiling leak is an emergency – drywall soaks up water fast, and a sagging ceiling can collapse. Act quickly and in this order.
Immediate steps
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Move furniture and electronics; put a bucket under the drip.
- If the ceiling is bulging, poke a small hole in the lowest point with a screwdriver to release the water in a controlled way.
- Turn off electricity to the room if water is near fixtures or outlets.
- Call an emergency plumber at (888) 480-9811.
Likely causes
- Leaking supply line, valve or drain from an upstairs bathroom
- Burst or pinhole-leaking pipe in the ceiling cavity
- Overflowing toilet or tub above
- Failed shower pan or tub drain seal
- Water heater located in an attic or upstairs closet
- Roof leak (if the drip only appears when it rains)
How we fix it
Our plumbers use moisture meters and inspection cameras to trace the water to its source with minimal drywall removal, repair the pipe or fixture, and document everything for your insurance claim.
Need burst pipe & pipe leak repair?
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