How to repair a leak: what to do first, and when to call a professional

Finding a leak is only half the job — fixing it properly is the part that actually stops it coming back. Here's what's safe to do yourself while you wait for help, and where the line is between a quick fix and a job for a licensed pro.

What you can safely do first

• Find and photograph the source: Note where the water is coming from and when it appears (constant, only in rain, only when a tap runs). This speeds up diagnosis enormously.
• Contain the water: Buckets, towels, and moving furniture or valuables out of the way limits damage while you wait.
• Shut off the water main for pipe leaks: If you can safely access the meter, turning it off stops the flow completely.
• A temporary tarp for an active roof leak: Only if it's safe and dry to do so — never climb onto a wet or storm-affected roof.

Why a proper repair matters more than a quick patch

• Sealant and tape are stopgaps, not fixes: They can slow a leak for a day or two, but they don't address the underlying cracked tile, failed flashing, or corroded pipe.
• A patch in the wrong spot can hide a bigger problem: Water travels before it shows up, so the visible drip isn't always where the damage is.
• DIY roof and pipe work carries real risk: Wet roofs, high-pressure pipework, and fittings near electrics are not places to improvise.

When to call a professional

1. The leak is active or getting worse: Don't wait and hope it dries out on its own — it rarely does.
2. You've already tried a patch and it's back: That's usually a sign the actual source hasn't been found yet.
3. There's any sign of structural damage: Sagging ceilings, soft timber, or damp near electrical fittings need an inspection, not a DIY fix.
4. It's a Colorbond, tile, or box gutter roof: These need the right technique and materials to repair properly and keep any existing warranty intact.

What Paul recommends

Paul finds the actual source before quoting a fix — not just the symptom you can see. It's a $140 call-out fee plus $120/hour and materials priced to the job, with a clear price before work starts, and if the same leak ever returns, he comes back and fixes it for free.