Services/Forensics · Existing buildings

Forensic water intrusion investigation

A leak rarely starts where the stain shows up. The real cause is usually a failed transition or an installation done in the wrong order. We test until we can prove where the water gets in, then tell you how to fix it for good.

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  • ASTM E2128
  • ASTM E1105
  • AAMA 501.2
  • ASTM C1153
Roof test cut showing wet insulation and decayed deck
Roof test cut showing wet insulation and decayed deck
When to call us

Where this helps most

  • A leak keeps coming back

    Repairs haven't held, and nobody can say for sure where the water is getting in.

  • Damage is hidden

    Stains, odors or soft spots point to moisture you can't see from the surface.

  • Repairs are about to be bid

    You want the fix aimed at the cause, not just the visible damage.

  • A claim or dispute is involved

    You need independent, standards-based findings and an expert who can explain them.

How it works

From first call to final report

  1. Review the history

    Drawings, repair and service records, and what occupants have seen. This sets the age, type and intent of the construction.

  2. Look and scan

    A visual survey from every area we can reach, with infrared and moisture readings to map where water is and isn't.

  3. Test

    Controlled water testing to ASTM E2128 methods to recreate the leak, and test cuts where we need to see inside the wall or roof.

  4. Report the cause and the fix

    Our findings and opinions, photo documentation, and repair recommendations aimed at the source.

What you get

Clear findings you can act on

  • A formal report: written findings, opinions and photo documentation
  • High-level repair recommendations, with rough cost estimates when asked
  • A detailed remedial work scope, available for an added fee
  • Expert support if the findings end up in front of a board, insurer or court
Inspection opening showing decayed framing behind the wall
Inspection opening showing decayed framing behind the wall
Failed base flashing below a masonry wall
Failed base flashing below a masonry wall
Questions

Common questions

Will you need to open walls or the roof?

Only where testing and scanning can't answer the question. We use infrared and moisture readings first, so test cuts are few and in the right places.

Do you do the repairs?

No. We're independent and don't sell or install anything. We define the problem and the fix, and a qualified contractor of your choice prices and builds it.

Can you help with an insurance claim or lawsuit?

Yes. We provide standards-based testing, documentation and expert support for owners, insurers and attorneys.

What should I gather before the visit?

Drawings if you have them, any repair or service records, and a list of where and when leaks have shown up.

Project highlight
Recurring storefront leak traced to a single sill detail
Read the case study
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Start a project

Field-tested answers. Defensible reports.

Tell us about the building and we'll reply within one business day with next steps and a proposal.

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