Once you’ve determined where the leak is coming from, you’ve got to get it fixed. Loose or missing roofing tiles can be replaced relatively easy with fresh tar paper and a few new tiles. For a broken water pipe, you’ll probably have to call in a professional to replace the piping. From there, you have to allow the leak area to dry out. Once dry, check the wood and drywall surrounding the area to see if they’ll need to be replaced.

If you’re noticing leaks in your basement ceilings, chances are that they’re coming from leaking pipes to your sinks or bathtub. Check to make sure all the pipe fittings to your sinks and bathtub are properly tightened. Again, you may end up having call in a professional to ensure that all your pipes are secure and in good shape. Not only will you need to check any damp ceiling tiles in your basement, you’ll also need to check the floorboards around your tub and sinks. Allow them to fully dry before making any assessments. Once dry, you may only need to replace a few ceiling tiles to make things good as new.

The best way to keep your ceilings from leaking is through preventative measures. Periodically check any roofing tiles. Tar paper will deteriorate over time and will need replaced. Make sure your plumbing pipes are in good shape and up to date. Fix any drips or minor leaks before they become a problem. A small repair now will keep you from having to spend thousands of dollars on repairs later.