What to do if…
a leak from the unit above is damaging your home and the responsible party is not responding

What to do now

1. Move to a safer area.

   • Keep people and pets away from standing water, wet electrical fixtures, and any bulging or sagging ceiling.
   • If there is sparking, smoke, rapid flooding, or an immediate risk of ceiling collapse, leave the affected area and call 911 or the fire department from a safe location.

2. Only switch off power if you can do so safely.

   • If the breaker panel is dry, you can reach it without entering standing water, and you know which switch controls the affected area or the main power, switch it off.
   • If the panel is wet, the route is unsafe, or you are unsure which switch to use, do not touch the panel or guess. Call building maintenance or a licensed electrician.

3. Contact the building route that can arrange shutoff and authorized access.

   • If you rent, call your landlord, property manager, or emergency maintenance contact.
   • If you are in a condominium or other managed building, call the association or building management emergency contact.
   • Say that an active leak from the unit above is entering your home and ask them to arrange the appropriate water shutoff and authorized access procedure.
   • You can contact the upstairs occupant once if it is safe, but do not wait for a reply before escalating.

4. Call a licensed emergency plumber if building help is unavailable.

   • Explain that the leak is coming from another unit in a multi-unit building.
   • Ask whether they can safely stop the source or advise on the correct shutoff route.
   • They may need building authorization or access from management.

5. Limit damage only from a safe position.

   • Move electronics, furniture, rugs, and valuables away from the drip area if you can do so without entering standing water or standing under a damaged ceiling.
   • Use buckets or towels only where it is safe.
   • If the water may contain sewage or other contamination, avoid contact and tell building management, your insurer, or a restoration professional.

6. Document the situation.

   • Take photos or video of the leak, affected ceiling and walls, standing water, and damaged belongings from a safe position.
   • Keep a simple log of when the leak started, who you contacted, and any replies.
   • Save messages, emails, and receipts.

7. Notify your insurer promptly.

   • Contact your renters or homeowners insurer and report water damage from the unit above.
   • Ask what temporary steps they want documented, what may be covered, and whether they have a preferred restoration provider.
   • Keep receipts for reasonable emergency supplies and professional visits.

8. Start safe drying after the leak is stopped.

   • Once electrical safety is established and there is no reason to suspect contamination, begin drying wet areas promptly with ventilation, fans, or a dehumidifier.
   • If you are unsure whether the water may be contaminated, ask a restoration professional before cleanup.
   • Aim to dry wet or damp materials within 24–48 hours where possible.
   • Ask a restoration professional about soaked drywall, hidden moisture, extensive damage, or water that may be contaminated.