Do I Need a Roofer or a General Contractor for a Roof Leak?

For most roof leaks, call a roofer first — finding and stopping the leak is roofing work. Call a general contractor, or a restoration company, when water has already damaged the inside of the house: ceilings, drywall, insulation, flooring or framing.

When is a roofer the right call?

• A drip or stain appears after rain.
• Shingles are missing or lifted after wind.
• Flashing around a chimney, skylight or vent looks loose.
• You need the roof inspected, patched or replaced.

• The ceiling is sagging or drywall is soaked.
• Rafters, decking or wall framing show rot.
• The repair spans several trades (roof, drywall, paint, flooring).

A general contractor can coordinate those trades so you are not managing four schedules.

What about water damage and mold?

If water sat for more than a day or two, or you smell mustiness, a restoration company can dry the space and check for mold. See water damage restoration costs.

What should I do right now?

1. 1Move belongings and put a bucket under the drip.
2. 2Take photos for insurance.
3. 3If the ceiling bulges, carefully relieve the water with a small hole into a bucket, or keep people away from it.
4. 4Call a roofer to stop the source.

Is a leak a sign I need a new roof?

Not always. Read roof repair vs. replacement and questions to ask a roofer.

Where do I find help locally?

Browse roofers, general contractors and restoration companies across Middle Tennessee.