Suzuki Repair: Oil Leak, grand vitara suzuki, timing chain cover

Question
What do it mean when oil is leaking from front timing chain cover seal?  Is it just an oil leak?  How serious is it?  

1999 Grand Vitara (suzuki)

Answer
I suppose it depends on how much oil is leaking.  If it's just a little, not a six inch puddle from five minutes idling, it's not severe.  It also depends on whether its the sealing surface of the cover, or the front crankshaft seal.  Also important would be whether there are any accompanying noises, clanks, rattles, etc.
Generally, it's better to have a technician look at it, and give you an opinion.  It's usually better, and in the long run less expensive to fix things as they need it, instead of waiting till they cause additional problems, with additional expense.