**Assessing Severity and Urgency** Ceiling water damage can range from minor cosmetic issues to major structural problems. The severity of the damage depends on the amount of water, the length of time the water has been present, and the type of material the ceiling is made of. **Minor Damage** * Small stains or discoloration * Slight bubbling or peeling of the paint or wallpaper * No sagging or structural damage **Moderate Damage** * Larger stains or discoloration * Significant bubbling or peeling of the paint or wallpaper * Minor sagging or cracking of the ceiling **Major Damage** * Extensive stains or discoloration * Large areas of peeling or blistering * Sagging or bulging of the ceiling * Cracks or holes in the ceiling **Assessing Urgency** The urgency of repairing ceiling water damage depends on the severity of the damage and the cause of the leak. **Minor Damage** * Can usually be repaired without immediate attention * Monitor the area for any changes or worsening of the damage **Moderate Damage** * Should be repaired as soon as possible * May require temporary support to prevent further damage **Major Damage** * Requires immediate attention * May require professional repair or replacement of the ceiling ## Leaks and Ceiling Water Damage **Causes of Ceiling Water Damage** Ceiling water damage is most often caused by leaks from the roof, plumbing, or HVAC system. Other causes include: * Condensation * Flooding * High humidity * Ice dams **How Long Does It Take for a Ceiling to Collapse from Water Damage?** The time it takes for a ceiling to collapse from water damage varies depending on the severity of the damage and the materials used in the ceiling. * Minor damage may not cause any collapse at all * Moderate damage can lead to collapse within a few days or weeks * Major damage can cause collapse within hours or days