Damp & water ingress
Repeated leaks from flat roof coverings
Recurring ceiling stains, drips during rain, or bulges in plaster from a flat roof above.
Recognise the problem
Recurring ceiling stains, drips during rain, or bulges in plaster from a flat roof above. Patterns we see most often: ongoing damp or smell, visible damage to a surface or appliance, a problem that returns after each repair, or a hazard that has been reported but not resolved.
Likely causes
- Perished felt or EPDM covering.
- Failed flashings at parapets and penetrations.
- Blocked outlets and standing water on the roof.
What to document
- Photos of the ceiling stains and any drip paths.
- Dates of each leak event and the weather at the time.
- Any emergency call-outs the landlord has already made.
Reporting to your landlord
- Report every incident in writing and keep acknowledgements.
- Ask for a flat-roof survey rather than another patch repair.
Not sure what to do next?
Tell us what has gone wrong at home. We will review the information you provide and explain the next step for your tenancy.
Request a QuoteWhat help is available
- Help pushing for a surveyor rather than another patch.
- Assistance with a formal complaint if patch repairs keep failing.
Common questions
Does this always lead to a compensation claim?
No. A recognised hazard is not automatically a claim – it depends on the duty, your tenancy, how long it has been unresolved and the evidence you can show.
Should I stop paying rent?
No. Withholding rent usually makes matters worse. Keep reporting the problem in writing and let us or an advisor review the next step.
What if my landlord says it is condensation and my fault?
That is a common response. Cause and liability are different questions. We can help you request a professional assessment.