When you think of leaky roofs, it’s natural to picture stormy winter nights – heavy rain, howling winds, maybe even a bit of hail.
But here’s something many tenants don’t realise: summer showers can be just as revealing.
In fact, those quick bursts of rain we get in summer can highlight roof issues you didn’t even know were there.
If your ceiling’s suddenly showing water stains after a light drizzle, or you’re spotting mysterious damp patches near the top of the wall, you’re not imagining it.
Even mild summer weather can uncover hidden problems, and your landlord is still legally responsible for fixing them.
Why Summer Isn’t Leak-Free
Flat roofs (which are common on council properties and blocks of flats), as well as older or poorly maintained pitched roofs, can struggle in any season.
Over time, roofing materials degrade. Flashing can crack. Gutters get blocked.
What might have seemed fine during a dry spell can quickly become a problem once rain hits, even in July.
The trouble is, summer leaks often start subtly. That means they’re easier for landlords to ignore, or claim they “can’t see a problem.” But as we’ve seen time and time again, small leaks can turn into major damage if left unchecked.
Spot the Signs Of A Leak Early
Here are some early warning signs that your roof, or ceiling, isn’t coping with summer rain:
- Brown or yellow stains on ceilings or upper walls
- Flaking or bubbling paint near the ceiling
- A damp or musty smell after it rains
- Dripping sounds or visible water during showers (yes, even light ones)
- Mould patches forming near light fittings or corners of ceiling
If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait for it to get worse. Your landlord has a legal duty to maintain the structure of your home, and that includes the roof.
What Your Landlord Should Be Doing
If you’re a council or housing association tenant, the law is clear: your landlord must keep your home in a safe, livable condition. That includes making timely repairs to the roof, ceilings, and any part of the structure that’s causing internal damage.
They can’t ignore the problem just because it hasn’t rained in a while. They also can’t wait until the leak becomes a flood before taking action.
We’ve helped tenants who were fobbed off for months, only for ceilings to collapse or severe damp to ruin their belongings.
You don’t need to wait until that point to speak up.
What to Do If Your Landlord Isn’t Acting
Here’s how to protect yourself and your home:
- Report it– Always report leaks, damp, or ceiling stains to your landlord (or the council) in writing. Keep a record of dates and any replies.
- Take photos – Document everything. Water stains, bubbling paint, and even the weather, when it happens. The more evidence, the better.
- Keep track of follow-ups – If they say someone will come out to inspect and no one does, make a note of it.
- Get advice – If your landlord isn’t repairing the damage, or keeps brushing it off, it might be time to get legal support.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
We help everyday tenants who are tired of being ignored. You might not think of yourself as the kind of person who takes legal action, but if your home’s being damaged and your landlord isn’t stepping up, you have every right to be heard.
We make the process simple, clear, and pressure-free. We’ll listen to your situation, explain your rights in plain language, and let you know honestly if you have a claim.
Everyone deserves a safe, dry home, no matter what the weather’s doing outside.
Worried About a Leak in Your Home? We’re Here To Help.
Get in touch with our experts today for a free, no-pressure chat. Let’s figure out the best way to protect your home and hold your landlord accountable.
