Direct Answer
First, protect the inside of the home if water is entering, document visible damage with photos, avoid climbing onto a damaged roof, and request roofing or storm-damage help. If there is active water intrusion, temporary protection may be needed before permanent repairs.
Immediate steps inside the home
Move belongings away from active water, place containers where dripping is occurring, and take photos of the ceiling, walls, floors, attic area if safely accessible, and any exterior damage visible from the ground.
- Do not step on wet ceilings or unsafe attic areas
- Do not climb on a wet or storm-damaged roof
- Save photos and notes about when the leak appeared
What a roofing provider may need to know
Roof leak requests are easier to evaluate when the provider knows the roof type, approximate age, leak location inside, visible exterior damage, and whether the issue happened after wind, heavy rain, tree contact, or previous repairs.
Do not only patch the ceiling
A ceiling stain may be the first visible symptom, but the source could be a roof penetration, flashing, vent, valley, gutter backup, siding transition, or storm-related opening. The source should be found before interior drywall is repaired.
When to call a professional
Request help immediately if water is active, if shingles or roof materials are missing, if a tree or limb contacted the roof, or if a stain appears after a storm.