Summer storms
Afternoon thunderstorms are a summer routine in Central Florida. Wind-driven rain finds weak flashing, old shingles and window seals, and the first sign is often a ceiling stain.
After a big storm, look at top-floor ceilings and around windows.
The air conditioner
The AC runs most of the year and makes water as it cools. When its drain line clogs, the pan overflows, often in the attic or a closet.
Ask your AC technician how often to clear the line.
Block homes on slabs
Many homes here are concrete block on a slab. Water has nowhere to drain, so it spreads across the floor and under flooring and baseboards.
Wet baseboards a room away from the leak are a common sign.
Wells and septic tanks
Outside the city, many homes have private wells and septic tanks. A pressure tank or well line can leak, and a full septic tank can back up through the lowest drains.
Know where your well shutoff is, and keep septic pumping on schedule.
Humidity makes it urgent
Central Florida air is humid much of the year, so wet materials do not dry on their own. Mold can start within a couple of days.
That is why drying should start quickly, even for a small leak.
