Discovering a leak in your neighbor's roof is a delicate and stressful situation. In addition to the discomfort and visible damage, immediate questions arise: where is the water coming from, who is responsible, who should call the plumber and how to solve the problem without conflict.
In this guide we explain step by step what you should do, how to identify the source of the leak, who should take responsibility and when it is essential to call in a professional. For quick and impartial intervention, the Lisbon plumber company is the best solution to identify the leak and prevent further damage.
Why is there a leak in your neighbor's roof?
In most cases, the water that appears on the ceiling of an apartment comes from the upper floor. The most common causes are:
- Cracked or leaking pipe in the apartment above
- Problems in the bathroom (shower, toilet, bidet or washbasin)
- Leaks in the kitchen (sink, dishwasher)
- Leakage caused by poor waterproofing
- Blockages that cause water to back up
- Problems with the building's water or sewage columns
Correctly identifying the source is essential before any repair.
What to do immediately you notice a leak
1. Warn the upstairs neighbor
The first step is to inform your neighbor calmly and objectively. Often they don't even realize there's a leak in your apartment.
2. Photograph and record the damage
Make visual records of leaks, damp spots, mold or dripping water. This can be useful for insurance and to avoid future conflicts.
3. Avoid hasty repairs
Don't cover stains or carry out work before identifying the source of the leak. Repairing without solving the cause will cause the problem to return.
4. Check if the problem is continuous
Observe whether the leak only appears when the neighbor uses water (bath, toilet, machine) or whether it is constant. This information helps with the diagnosis.
Who is responsible for the leak?
Liability depends on the exact origin of the leak:
Leak inside neighbor's apartment
If the leak comes from a neighbor's exclusive pipe, equipment or installation, they are responsible.
Problem in the common parts of the building
If the leak is in the water column, sewer or other common infrastructure, the condominium is responsible.
Infiltration from outside
Problems with the façade, roof or terrace are also usually the responsibility of the condominium.
In cases of doubt, an independent technical diagnosis is the best way to avoid arguments.
Who should call the plumber?
It depends on the situation:
- If the source is clearly in the apartment above, the neighbor should call a professional.
- If a problem is suspected in the common areas, the condominium should be informed.
- If the source is unclear, either party can call in a plumber for a technical diagnosis.
A professional report helps to define responsibilities and speed up resolution.
How the leak is identified
To avoid breaking walls or ceilings unnecessarily, professionals use specific methods:
- Pipe pressure test
- Visual and functional inspection
- Acoustic equipment to detect leaks
- Thermal cameras to locate hidden moisture
This type of diagnosis makes it possible to pinpoint the exact source of the leak with minimal damage.
Home insurance: does it cover leaks?
In most cases, multi-risk home insurance covers damage caused by sudden and unforeseen leaks, but does not cover problems due to lack of maintenance.
It is important to report the claim quickly and check the policy conditions. For general advice on consumer rights and insurance, you can consult the DECO Proteste, which provides impartial information on this type of situation.
Risks of not solving the leak quickly
- Worsening damage to ceilings and walls
- Formation of mold harmful to health
- Structural damage to the property
- Increased repair costs
- Prolonged conflicts between neighbors
The longer the leak remains active, the more complex and expensive the repair will be.
Why choose Lisbon Plumber
A Lisbon Plumber company specializes in detecting leaks and infiltrations between apartments, acting with neutrality and precision to identify the real source of the problem.
The service includes:
- Technical diagnostics without unnecessary destruction
- Clear identification of responsibility
- Report for condominium or insurance
- Effective and long-lasting repairs
- Fast service in and around Lisbon
Conclusion
A leak in a neighbor's roof should never be ignored. Acting quickly, communicating correctly and calling in a professional diagnostician are the essential steps to resolving the problem without conflict and at the lowest possible cost.
If you need to identify the source of the leak and resolve the situation safely, Lisbon Plumber is ready to help with professionalism, speed and transparency.
