Water doesn t always come in at the shingled surface.
Roof leak water move around.
A roof leak is always a cause for concern.
Dormer walls provide lots of spots where water can dribble down and enter the roof.
Both are definitely problems but right now you have an even more urgent one because a leak near a light fixture is a serious electrical hazard.
Reasons for a roof leak on an external overhang.
Dig out any cracked or dry caulking that isn t properly sealing adjoining surfaces and replace with silicone caulk.
Caulk can be old cracked or even missing between the corner boards and between window edges and siding.
Replace any missing or rotted siding above the step flashing on dormers.
Identifying the cause.
Even if the roof leak is caused by a windstorm or a tree.
The light reflects off the water as it enters the attic near the dormer.
Move the light up the roof and away from any drips to find where the water enters the attic at the dormer.
The water damage from a roof leak can extend well past the location of the leak.
Often wind driven rain comes in from above the roof especially around windows between corner boards and siding and through cracks and knotholes in siding.
A standard homeowners insurance policy will cover water damage and roof leaks unless they re the result of gross negligence on your part.