Your first steps with a leaking ceiling
If your ceiling is leaking, move belongings out of the way, place a bucket to catch the water, and report it to your landlord in writing immediately. A leaking ceiling can signal a roof or plumbing problem above and may risk a collapse.
Take photos and video of the leak, the stain, and any bulging or sagging, and note the date and time. Avoid standing directly under a sagging ceiling, because water-soaked drywall can give way suddenly. Keep away from light fixtures and outlets near the wet area, since water and electricity are a dangerous mix.
A leaking ceiling usually means water is coming from a roof leak or a plumbing line above — both generally the landlord's responsibility to fix. Report it as urgent and keep your written report along with any replies. If your landlord ignores a leaking ceiling, a free review can help you decide what to do next.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.