For Active Leaks

Roof Leak Investigation in Berkshire

An independent investigation of roof leaks — including intermittent leaks — that reports the evidence and likely water-entry routes, with honest limitations where a source cannot be confirmed.

Why leaks are difficult to diagnose

Roof leaks are often harder to diagnose than they appear. Water rarely enters the building at the point where it shows up inside. It can travel along timbers, membranes or voids, sometimes for some distance, before it becomes visible. Intermittent leaks that occur only in particular wind directions or during prolonged rainfall add further difficulty.

An independent investigation approaches the problem as one of evidence: what can be seen, where moisture is present, and what the likely entry routes are. Because we do not sell repairs, the investigation has no incentive to conclude that work is needed when the evidence does not support it.

What the investigation considers

  • • Visual inspection of coverings, ridges, hips and verges
  • • Moisture evidence — staining, tracking and internal signs
  • • Thermal imaging where appropriate, to help identify damp areas
  • • Likely water-entry routes and how water may be travelling
  • • Roof junctions and abutments
  • • Chimneys, valleys and leadwork
  • • Flat roofs, upstands and penetrations

Honest limitations

No investigation can guarantee that every leak will be conclusively identified. Some leaks are intermittent, some originate from concealed routes, and some only become apparent under conditions that cannot be reproduced during a visit. Where a source cannot be confirmed, the report says so, explains why, and sets out what further steps could be considered.

The investigation is non-destructive: we do not remove coverings or open up the structure. It is based on observation and reasoning from evidence.

Frequently asked questions

Can you guarantee you will find the source of my leak?
No. We cannot guarantee that every leak can be conclusively identified. Some leaks are intermittent, weather-dependent or originate from concealed routes. We investigate thoroughly and report the most likely causes based on evidence, and we are honest where a source cannot be confirmed.
Why are some leaks so hard to find?
Water can travel along structural members or membranes before it becomes visible, so the point where water appears is often some distance from where it enters. Intermittent leaks that only occur in specific wind or rain conditions add further difficulty.
Do you use thermal imaging?
Thermal imaging can be useful in certain circumstances and may be used where appropriate. It is one tool among several and is not a substitute for visual inspection and sound reasoning about how water is moving through the structure.
Will the investigation damage my roof?
No. The investigation is non-destructive and based on observation. We do not remove coverings or open up the structure. Where a defect is concealed, that limitation is recorded.
Can you investigate flat-roof leaks?
Yes. Flat roofs are a common source of leaks, and junctions, upstands and penetrations are typically examined as part of the investigation where accessible.
What do I receive after the investigation?
A written report with photographs, describing the evidence observed, the likely water-entry routes, and practical recommendations. Where a source cannot be confirmed, the report explains why and what further steps could be considered.

Got a Roof Leak You Can't Pin Down?

An independent leak investigation reports the evidence and the likely causes — without offering to sell you the repair. Request a fixed quote for an investigation.