Flat Roof Inspection

Flat roof membrane (TPO, EPDM, PVC, or modified bitumen) must be intact with no punctures, tears, or blisters. Seams must be properly welded or adhered.

1. Walk the entire roof surface carefully — look for punctures, tears, or cuts in the membrane

2. Check seams — should be smooth and sealed (push along seam edges to test adhesion)

3. Look for blisters or bubbles in the membrane (indicates trapped moisture)

4. Check for any areas where membrane is pulling away from edges or flashings

5. Inspect for UV degradation (cracking, chalking, fading)

6. Verify membrane type matches specifications

7. Check for foot traffic damage (especially near HVAC units and access points)

- Punctured membrane from foot traffic or dropped tools

- Failed seams (most common flat roof leak location)

- Blisters from trapped moisture (will grow and eventually tear)

- UV degradation from age

- Membrane pulling from flashings at edges

- Damage around HVAC equipment or other rooftop items

Flat roofs must drain completely within 48 hours. Ponding water accelerates membrane degradation and adds structural load.

1. After rain: check for standing water — should drain within 48 hours

2. Verify drains are clear and not clogged (leaves, debris)

3. Check drain location — should be at low points

4. Verify scupper and overflow drains are functional

5. Check gutters and downspouts connected to roof drains

6. Look for dirt rings indicating chronic ponding areas

7. Verify minimum 1/4" per foot slope to drains

- Ponding water (degrades membrane, adds load, breeds mosquitoes)

- Clogged drains (no water can exit)

- Insufficient slope (water pools instead of flowing to drains)

- Missing overflow/scupper drains (backup if primary clogs)

- Chronic ponding areas showing dirt staining

- Sagging deck under ponding areas (structural concern)