Roof leaking? What to do right now

1. Catch the water

Put a bucket under the drip and a towel or board under the bucket to stop splashing. Move furniture, electronics and rugs out of the way.

2. Check the ceiling

If the ceiling is bulging, water is pooling above it. Keep people out of the room. A roofer or handyman may relieve the pressure safely; don't stand under it.

3. Mind the electricity

If water is near light fixtures or outlets, switch off that circuit at the breaker, but only from a dry spot.

4. Photograph everything

Photos of the ceiling, the wet area and the roof from the ground, with the date, help the roofer and anyone else involved later.

5. Stay off the roof

Wet roofs are slippery. Leave tarping to a roofer with the right equipment.

6. Call a roofer

Tell them it's leaking now. Many can tarp the same day and come back for the permanent repair.