A roof leak is a serious issue that shouldn’t be taken lightly. I’ve seen a leak left unaddressed become a major issue requiring extensive repair and remediation. Even a relatively minor leak could cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage in a matter of days. That’s why you need to keep an eye out for any signs that your roof might be damaged.

    Luckily, a roofing company can patch most small leaks within a few hours.

    It’s never fun to be forced into spending money unexpectedly, but it’s worth it to spend a little upfront to save a lot in the end. You’ll want to act quickly to identify and repair a roof leak.

    Below are the four telltale signs your roof is leaking.


    Stains on the Walls or Ceiling

    water stains
    Image Credit: Canva

    Over a few years, some of the surfaces in your home are sure to become stained. While minor discoloration is natural, be wary of distinct stains on the walls or ceiling. On a white ceiling, water stains are usually a yellow-to-orange splotch with a distinct darker discoloration around the edges. They may also be accompanied by bubbling of the paint and sagging. 

    Start by examining the stained area up close. Try to pinpoint where moisture is entering from.

    Stains that originate near vents, skylights, or fixtures often indicate an issue with flashing or sealing. Stains elsewhere on ceiling drywall may mean water is dripping from the attic. Don’t just paint over stains — trace them back to the root cause so you can fully resolve the leak.


    Unpleasant Smells

    Your nose is an important tool to you as a homeowner — it can alert you to a range of problems. If your home has distinct smells that last more than a few days, you’ll need to get to the bottom of the situation.

    stained roof
    Image Credit: Canva

    When a roof leaks water, you might notice a musty smell whenever you turn on the heating or cooling systems or crack open windows. That smell is sometimes the result of wet insulation, drywall, or other materials, and you’ll need to investigate. 

    Look for signs of moisture like water stains, sagging, or mold growth. Check the attic and feel the walls and carpet for dampness. If you find a leak, call a roofing contractor.


    Dripping Sounds and Curled Shingles

    Immediately after you turn off a faucet or showerhead, you may hear a faint dripping sound. That noise is normal, but be wary if you constantly hear dripping water.

    Curled Shingles
    Image Credit: Canva

    In addition to checking your attic for signs of damage, you should visually inspect your roof from the outside. A leak could cause some shingles to curl or crack, and you’ll need to have a roofing contractor replace the damaged shingles and patch the holes.

    Look closely at shingles across the entire roof, not just above the suspected leak area. Curling and damage can appear far from the actual hole in the roof. Inspect flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys as well. Pooling water or signs of rust mean flashing needs to be resealed or replaced.


    Mold or Mildew

    Indoor mold has been linked to a wide variety of serious health problems, including respiratory tract infections, asthma, pneumonia, and certain forms of cancer.

    Mold or Mildew
    Image Credit: Canva

    At least once every few months, you should look over every inch of your home for signs of mold or mildew. A leaking roof will often result in mold outbreaks around the vents, ceiling fans, and light fixtures. You may see fuzzy black or green growth on surfaces or detect a musty, earthy smell.

    If you spot mold, call a mold remediation specialist to mitigate the outbreak and prevent regrowth.

    They can also test your home’s air quality for mold spore levels. You should also hire a roofer to repair the underlying leak so mold doesn’t return. Solving the problem of mold without fixing the root cause won’t provide a permanent solution.


    So, Is Checking for Roof Leaks Worthwhile?

    Definitely. Being vigilant about signs of a roof leak can prevent catastrophic damage down the line. Don’t ignore warning signs — trust your senses, inspect thoroughly, and enlist roofing professionals at the first suspicion of an issue. Fixing a minor leak costs far less than a major repair. Remember that water can travel far from the actual hole in your roof before causing stains and smells elsewhere in your home. Tracing leak evidence back to the source is key for full repairs (check out our video on tracing hard-to-find roof leaks.) With vigilance, you can catch roof problems early and protect your most valuable investment. 


    FAQs About Roof Leaks

    What are the most common causes of a roof leak?

    Flashing failures around vents, skylights, and chimneys are common culprits. Transition areas on the roof — like where peaks and valleys come together — are another common culprit.


    How much does it cost to repair a roof leak?

    Minor repairs like patching a small hole may range from $150 to $500. Replacing flashing or damaged shingles can cost $500 to $1,500. A full roof replacement may be needed for older or severely damaged roofs.


    What are signs of roof leak damage inside my home?

    Water stains on walls and ceilings, drips from light fixtures, damp insulation, musty smells, and mold growth around vents are all potential signs of interior damage from a roof leak.


    Should I repair or replace my roof?

    For newer roofs or minor damage, repairs may suffice. Replacement may be the wiser investment if your roof is outdated or you have recurring leaks. Consult a roofer for an assessment.


    How often should roof inspections happen?

    Ideally, thoroughly inspect your roof once yearly and after storms or potentially damaging events. Also, inspect your home’s interior regularly for leak signs.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Doug Sluga

    Doug Sluga

    Doug Sluga is a professional roofer and carpenter with ten years of experience in residential and commercial construction. His expertise spans the breadth of the roofing trade from minor repairs to laying shingles to framing trusses. These days he spends most of his time writing about roofing and the roofing industry.

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    photo of Lee Ann Merrill

    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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