Who to Call for Ceiling Repair: Finding the Right Pro for the Job

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

A licensed general contractor is often who to call for ceiling repair when damage is extensive or structural. They assess the situation, determine the cause, and coordinate specialists as needed. Pros bring experience, follow safety measures, and often offer warranties, making professional help the safer, higher-quality choice.

Benefits of Hiring a Contractor for Ceiling Repair

Hiring a contractor provides convenience, expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind. A licensed general contractor oversees the entire process—from assessing causes to coordinating specialists—so you don't juggle multiple pros. Despite upfront costs, contractor-led repairs can prevent errors and streamline materials and labor, supporting your home’s long-term safety and integrity.

Other advantages of hiring a general contractor for ceiling repairs include:

• Single point of contact, so you don't juggle trades or timelines

• Coordinates drywall, electrical, and plumbing as needed across the project

• Assesses structural issues to protect safety and prevent repeat damage

• Access to competitive supplier/subcontractor pricing

• Reduces errors that cause rework and added expense

• Follows safety measures, including stabilizing conditions and protective gear

• Provides guidance to prevent damage, like ventilation, plumbing, or roofing improvements

• Often backed by professional warranties for added peace of mind

Can I Hire a Drywall Installer for Ceiling Repair?

Drywall installers repair cracks, holes, and replace damaged drywall sections with precise, seamless results. They commonly charge $50 to $100 per hour plus materials and may be more available for emergency jobs.

However, drywallers do not address major structural problems, active water damage, leaks, or mold. For those, a general contractor, water damage specialist, or mold remediation expert is the better call. If your ceiling damage is beyond minor cracks or holes, you might want to consider a general contractor near you to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

How Do Pros Fix Ceilings?

Pros follow these steps to complete ceiling repairs:

1. Assess the damage and identify the cause.

2. Stabilize conditions and ensure safety measures.

3. Remove damaged materials and isolate affected areas.

4. Patch cracks or holes, or replace drywall sections.

5. Restore appearance with paint or texture matching.

6. Verify structural stability and clean the work area.

7. Recommend prevention steps, such as ventilation or fixing plumbing/roofing issues.

How Much Does Ceiling Repair Cost?

Ceiling repair averages $1,100, depending on damage type and whether structural issues or specialists are involved. Drywall installers charge $50 to $100 per hour, plus materials for patching and replacement work.

If water damage is involved, restoration costs average $3,900 and can require drying equipment and reconstruction. For mold, remediation averages $2,300, with total expenses ranging from $10 to $25 per square foot based on location, mold type, and spread. Scope, materials, and labor drive the final price.