A leaking flat roof: what to prepare before an inspection
When a wet patch appears on a ceiling, a clear record of observations is more useful than guessing which coating is needed. For the first discussion, prepare a description, photographs taken safely and any existing documentation. This helps establish what needs inspecting on site and which information is still missing.
Record when and where the problem occurs
Describe the room, the position of the stain and when it was first noticed. Record whether the leak appeared during rain, afterwards or also in dry weather. State whether it is recurring and whether work was recently done on the roof. Keep observations factual; do not infer the cause from them yet.
- Date observed and weather conditions you remember.
- Position of dripping or staining and any spread.
- Previous repairs and when the problem returned.
Take photographs only from a safe position
Take an overall view of the room and a close-up of the damage so its location is clear. Add existing photographs of the roof and accessible details. Do not step onto an unprotected edge or a wet roof, or open roof layers, just to take a photograph. If an area cannot be accessed safely, tell the contractor. Photographs help prepare an inspection but do not establish the cause or renovation scope on their own.
Gather information that already exists
Roof drawings, a bill of quantities from an earlier renovation, invoices describing the work and maintenance instructions are useful. State the approximate area, known roof age and its use, such as maintenance access only or terrace use. If you do not know the build-up, mark it as unknown. For an apartment building, the property manager should collect observations from affected flats and appoint a contact person for the visit.
A local repair or complete renovation?
The decision should follow an inspection of the existing waterproofing, substrate and other important roof components. Ask the contractor to explain which findings support the proposal and what remains unchecked. If further investigation is needed, agree its purpose and scope separately. Ask which parts can be retained, what needs removing and how outlets and junctions with surrounding elements will be treated.
Use the first discussion to establish the next step
In your enquiry to STREHAX, a brand of Xplan, state the building location, a description of the leak and the available documentation. Explain who can provide access and any site restrictions. The first discussion aims to clarify the information needed for an inspection and quotation. If a temporary measure is required, its purpose should be distinguished from permanent renovation and defined following professional assessment.