Small black stain in ceiling. Was able to poke finger through drywall.
After some time investigating I was able to feel water drip on my finger
In hole while the water to the tub is being harshly/quickly turned on/off.
I'm about 99% positive a copper fitting has a minor leak that only appears
When the water is used and the leak is before the part you turn on/off.

Are there any other ways to fix this short of making a sizable hole
In the ceiling and sweating a new fitting at the leak spot ?
I can not get to the pipe from above due to the tub.

And unfortunately this ceiling extends to 3 rooms; dining, kitchen and kitchen nook.
The ceilings are popcorn and I'm trying to avoid having to redo all the ceilings
For what is currently a 3 in black spot.

Suggestions ?

Thank you
Jon

Boy this might be an easy one or it might take a little more work. First, what is the tub controls, a single diverter or two faucets? Either one can leak if 'quick valving' is causing leaks. The center control type may be the easiest to fix if the water is coming out of the center valve insert seal. If that is the case replace the valve that has the seal and that will stop the problem. This may not apply to the single control valves though as they are not in the wall. More info please. Nm::)

Before you can even began to repair the leak you must first locate it. Remove the Handle or knobs and feel for moisture around the valve body. Let me know what you find. Regards. Tom

Wow what fast reply.

Sorry guys.. I think I must have been misleading.

Where the leak is occurring is at the other end of the tub from the handles.
This is one of those garden type tubs with jets.

The supply line runs down the length of the tub between the plywood flooring
And above the ceiling drywall. I've not been able to see the leak. Best I've
Been able to do so far is feel a drop of water on my finger if I stick it through
The ceiling when I know the water is being turned on/off. I'm about 80-90%
Sure the leak is from a sweat fitting in the supply line before the water
Gets to the knobs (separate hot/cold). I unfortunately can not get to the
Supply line from above. I'm thinking my only choice is to cut a significant
Hole in the ceiling to fix the leak and then have to patch it up which is
What I really fear because my thought is a patch will always look like
A patch and the alternative is to redo the ceiling in 3 rooms !

Thanks again!

Jon