Record where water appears
Interior water location does not reliably identify the roof entry point because water can travel along framing or surfaces.
Weather context matters
Wind direction, snowmelt, freeze-thaw or prolonged rain can help a roofer reproduce the pattern.
Interior protection can limit secondary damage
Move belongings from the affected area when safe, but do not climb onto a wet, icy or damaged roof to investigate.
The decision is about cause and extent
A localized repair may be reasonable when the surrounding roof is serviceable; widespread age or multiple failures can change the replacement discussion.
Safety boundary. General planning information only. Do not open, dismantle or work on hazardous electrical, gas, structural, fire-protection or contaminated-water systems unless you are appropriately qualified and authorized.