Why Does the Roof Leak Every Single Rain?
The tenant called again. The bucket is full. Stop the cycle of endless repairs and find out why your roof keeps failing.
The Landlord’s Nightmare
It is 2 AM. It is raining hard in Brooklyn. Your phone rings. It is your tenant on the top floor. “The ceiling is dripping again.” You sigh. You paid a roofer $500 last month to patch it. You paid another guy $300 the month before. Why does this keep happening?
Roof leaks are the single most frustrating issue for property owners. They damage drywall, ruin floors, and destroy tenant relationships. However, most recurring leaks happen for one simple reason: the “fix” was not a fix. It was a band-aid. Caulking a shingle does not solve the problem if the flashing is rusted out. Tarring a flat roof does not help if the drain is clogged.
At Renovation Services, we act as both your property manager and your maintenance team. We don’t just patch holes; we solve problems. This guide will explain why your roof keeps leaking and how to stop it for good.
Need a Roofer Who Shows Up?
Stop wasting money on “handymen” with a ladder and a bucket of tar. Our licensed roofing team finds the source and fixes it right the first time.
Call us at: 347-455-1741
Email: info@renovationservices.com
Schedule a Roof RepairThe 4 Hidden Causes of Recurring Leaks
1. Failed Flashing
Flashing is the metal that seals the joints where the roof meets a wall or a chimney. It is the most critical part of the roof. Over time, the metal rusts or pulls away from the brick. Water runs down the wall, bypasses the shingles, and drips inside. No amount of tar on the shingles will fix a flashing leak.
2. The “Ice Dam” Effect
In NYC winters, snow melts on the roof, runs down, and freezes again at the cold gutter. This creates a dam of ice. The water behind it backs up under the shingles and leaks into the house. This happens because of poor attic insulation, not a hole in the roof.
3. Clogged Drains (Flat Roofs)
Many NYC buildings have flat roofs. They rely on a central drain. If leaves or trash block that drain, the roof turns into a swimming pool. Water will find the tiniest crack to escape—usually into your tenant’s bedroom. Regular cleaning is the only fix.
4. The “Mystery” Vent Pipe
Every pipe that sticks out of your roof has a rubber boot around it. These rubber boots rot in the sun after 10 years. They crack and let water slide right down the pipe. It is a cheap fix, but often overlooked.
Tired of Managing Repairs?
Let us be the bad guy. We handle tenant calls, schedule repairs, and ensure the work is done correctly. You just cash the rent check.
Call us at: 347-455-1741
Switch to Full ManagementHow to Inspect Your Roof (Without Dying)
You do not need to climb a 40-foot ladder to spot trouble. Here is how to inspect safely.
- 1. The Binocular Check: Stand across the street. Look for shingles that are curling up or missing. Look for rust streaks on the chimney flashing.
- 2. The Attic Crawl: Go into the attic on a sunny day. Turn off the lights. Look for pinpricks of daylight showing through the roof boards. If light can get in, water can get in.
- 3. The Gutter Scan: Are trees growing out of your gutters? If so, your drains are blocked. Water is likely backing up.
Safety Warning: Never walk on a wet or steep roof. Falls are the #1 cause of death in construction. Call a pro. Check OSHA fall protection guidelines.
Is It Time for a New Roof?
If your roof is over 20 years old, repairs are a waste of money. A new roof adds value and tax benefits. Get a quote for a full replacement.
Get a Replacement QuoteThe Hard Choice: Repair or Replace?
As a landlord, you want to save money. But sometimes, spending money now saves you a fortune later.
When to Repair
- The roof is less than 15 years old.
- The leak is isolated to one spot (like a vent or chimney).
- You have spare shingles that match.
When to Replace
- The roof is over 20 years old.
- The shingles are brittle and break when you touch them.
- You have leaks in three or more different rooms.
- The cost of the repair is more than 30% of the cost of a new roof.
Proactive Management: The Secret to Profit
The best landlords don’t wait for a call at 2 AM. They prevent the call. This is what we do for our clients.
- Annual Inspections: We check the roof every fall. We seal the flashing and clean the gutters before the snow comes.
- Tree Trimming: We cut back branches that rub against the roof. This stops squirrels from getting in and prevents storm damage.
- Tenant Reporting: We encourage tenants to report small stains on the ceiling immediately. Catching a leak early saves the drywall and the floor.
See our seasonal maintenance checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover roof leaks?
It depends. Insurance covers sudden damage, like a storm blowing shingles off or a tree hitting the house. It usually does NOT cover leaks caused by old age or lack of maintenance. Check your policy carefully. See FEMA guides on storm damage.
Can I fix a leak from the inside?
No. You can stop the water from dripping on the floor with a bucket, but you cannot stop it from entering the house from the inside. The water is already in the structure. You must stop it at the roof surface.
How much does a roof repair cost in NYC?
A simple repair like a vent boot or flashing seal might cost $300 to $600. A larger patch could be $1,000+. A full replacement for a rowhouse starts around $10,000 and goes up depending on materials.
Can I deduct roof repairs on my taxes?
Generally, repairs (fixing a leak) are deductible expenses in the year they occur. Improvements (a whole new roof) must be depreciated over 27.5 years. Always ask your accountant.
Ready to Stop the Leaks?
Don’t let water ruin your investment. Our team is ready to inspect, repair, or manage your property today.
Call us at: 347-455-1741
Email: info@renovationservices.com
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