The plumbing system is an intricate part of a home's function. As the primary means of water transport around the structure, an issue with the plumbing system can be a significant inconvenience and an outright emergency. If you happen to look up at the ceiling in your home and you see water spots, learn more about what you should do right away. 

Head Upstairs

If you happen to be on a lower level of your home and you look up and see water coming from the ceiling, the first thing you want to do is to head to an upper level of your home. For example, if the water spot appears just below a bathroom or laundry room on an upper level, it could be that the water is coming from this specific room. 

In this case, you may be able to turn off the washing machine or shut off the water to the toilet to prevent water leakage. However, you still should have the issue inspected to ensure there is not a problem with the pipes or drains.

Locate the Water Shut-off Valve

If the leak is not coming from a visible source and is instead coming from a pipe located between the floor and the ceiling, you need to get to the main water shut-off valve. Depending on where you live, this valve could be found in the basement, or it could even be outside. 

This valve will shut off and terminate all water flow into your home. It will not remove the existing water in the pipes, but it will prevent more water from flowing in, which at least helps stop more water from escaping through the leak and causing further damage. 

Contact a Professional

Once the water source has been cut off, you should contact a plumbing professional as soon as possible. A leak can be a dangerous situation for a couple of reasons. First, a leak can cause significant damage to a home, and second, with the main shut-off valve activated, you will not have water in your home to perform necessary processes, such as washing your hands. 

A plumbing professional can use leak detection equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak and use their diagnostic expertise to determine what might have caused the leak to prevent a repeat issue.  

If you happen to experience this issue in your home, make sure you follow these steps and contact a plumber as soon as possible.