Home / Services / Water Intrusion Investigation
Water Intrusion Investigation
Water intrusion is water entering a building through the roof, walls, windows, doors, decks, or foundation when and where it isn’t supposed to. Finding where it’s actually coming from — and why — is the difference between a repair that works and one that doesn’t. Some homeowners search for a “water intrusion inspection” — this is that, taken further: testing and documentation to identify the actual source, not just a visual walkthrough.
Common signs
- Staining on ceilings or walls that reappears
- Musty odor without visible water
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
- Efflorescence or mineral deposits
- Damp or soft flooring near exterior walls
- Mold growth in isolated areas
Potential causes
- Roof flashing or membrane failure
- Window and door flashing defects
- Stucco or cladding cracks and penetrations
- Deck and balcony waterproofing failures
- Grading and drainage directing water toward the building
- Plumbing leaks mistaken for exterior intrusion
- Condensation misdiagnosed as a leak
- Prior repairs that addressed the wrong location
What we test and document
- Infrared thermography scan
- Moisture meter readings at suspect areas
- Water testing of suspect assemblies where appropriate
- Visual and borescope assembly investigation
- Photographic documentation throughout
What you receive
A written report describing what was investigated, what was found, the likely source, and recommended next steps.
Investigator vs. contractor
A contractor is often right when the source of a problem is already known. An independent investigation is worth it when the source isn’t clear, a previous repair didn’t work, or you need documentation you can rely on before spending money on repairs.
Common questions
How long does a water intrusion investigation take?
Most single-family investigations are completed on-site in a few hours, with a written report following within several business days.
Do you also do the repair?
No. We investigate and document. Keeping investigation separate from repair work means our findings aren’t influenced by what work we’d stand to sell.
Will you go on the roof, or into the attic or crawlspace?
Where safely and reasonably accessible, yes — these areas are often where the real answer is found.
Is this the same as a water intrusion inspection?
Close. A basic inspection is a visual walkthrough. Our investigation adds infrared thermography, moisture testing, and documentation to identify the actual entry point — the answer a standard inspection often can’t reach.
Local considerations
Along the Central Coast, wind-driven rain and prolonged winter storms push water into assemblies that perform fine in light rain. Older homes, stucco cladding, and decks over living space are common sources investigated throughout Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.
