Water pooling on a roof: what to record before a waterproofing assessment

Record pooling locations, drains and previous work to guide the assessment without assuming that waterproofing is the only cause.

Editorial team: ARKAN Development

Published: 2026-09-13

When water pools on a roof, recording its location and preceding conditions is useful before an inspection. Pooling does not necessarily mean all waterproofing needs replacement, and the absence of indoor stains does not prove every detail is sound. Documentation helps the technical reviewer identify where to start and what has changed on the roof.

Sketch the affected locations

An engineering drawing is not required. Sketch the roof outline with the entrance, tank, equipment and known drains. Number each pooling area to match the photos. Take photos from safe locations; do not climb onto a roof in hazardous conditions or enter difficult areas for a better shot.

Record timing without making a diagnosis

Record when you saw the water and whether it followed rain or water use on the roof. If you revisit the area, note the time and remaining signs. Do not turn water retention time into your own acceptance limit. Evaluation depends on the roof and installed system and requires technical judgement.

Explain previous and recent work

State the last waterproofing date if known and any later tank, equipment or pipework installation. Prepare previous quotations or warranty information. Include changed access routes, new flooring or equipment, even if their relationship to pooling is unclear.

Define the inspection questions

Ask for review of the recorded areas in relation to drainage details and existing layers, identifying any further inspection needed. Ask whether local treatment or wider work is proposed and why. Separate roof preparation and waterproofing from equipment removal or reinstallation.

Keep a before-and-after reference

Use the same numbered locations in follow-up photos. Record what was done, what remains for review and who to contact if the issue returns. This is more useful than undated photos without location references. Do not conduct a roof flood test yourself.

When contacting ARKAN Development for a roof assessment in Riyadh, share the district, approximate area, simple sketch and available photos. These help prepare the enquiry; scope is determined after reviewing the roof and its details.