To ask about my leaking roof 😱

[Goostacean]

No idea how to proceed: please help! Our roof has been leaking near the chimney, along the dormer part of our attic conversion. (We didn't do the conversion, it's from '87.) Initially identified as a problem with the flaunching around the chimney pot, but not fixed due to issues between roofer and freeholder. Second roofer identified the problem as an issue with the flashing and tiles around/between the chimney. He then repaired that, he says, and sealed a chimney pot. However, I can't tell if the stains inside (photo attached) are still damp! Has the issue gone away?? Could it be something else/more serious?

How to proceed? I need an answer ASAP to renovate the room ahead of DC2.... wanted to buy a moisture meter to check, but not sure whether it's worth it. Or should I paint over it with stain blocker and then paint, and see what comes through? How long should it take to dry if the repair has been done correctly?

Please help.

Forgot the photo...

Don’t paint over it. It needs to dry out. It’s likely been fixed but buy a dampmeter anyway, they are not expensive. I have one! I had a similar problem. Supposedly chimneys/brick work etc dry out at a very slow rate (think and inch a month or so). Keep an eye on it for now and if you have one, put a dehumidifier in the room.

I do have a dehumidifier, so will use that, and will stop drying laundry in that room.... Any idea when we CAN paint over it? Need to renovate 😩

You need to wait for the wall to dry before you decorate. Not using a dehumidifier would take about 6 months for it to properly dry out. Should be a lot sooner with a dehumidifier

SIX MONTHS?????

Okay... okay. And how do I know it's drying, and not a continuation of the leak? The roofer is pretty adamant he's done a thorough job, but obviously I can't wait 6 months to find out, especially as that'll be the middle of winter!

Thank you so much for your help, by the way.

Bump for the morning crowd...