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5 Signs of Trouble at Your Commercial Property
Monday starts with a phone call.
Water on the floor, source unknown. As far as you know, the roof looks fine and the pipes aren’t leaking. Magically, by late afternoon, the water is gone.
Case closed?
Not quite.
Where did the water come from? Now you’re the lead detective on a case with very few clues.
The source of the problem isn't always easily revealed. Unrelated incidents can be the thread of the same story once you know what you're looking for.
Here are 5 signs to start investigating.
Water Appears Without an Obvious Source
A puddle, damp ceiling tile, or wet wall tells you where the water ended, but not where the problem started.
Entry points may have started at roof penetrations, damaged flashing, windows, exterior walls, drains, or rooftop equipment. Water can travel before finally showing up inside.
Look for: recurring moisture, standing water, overflowing drains, peeling paint, or damp areas around windows and doors.
Something Has Changed
A door that suddenly sticks, a growing crack, or a roof seam starting to lift tells you something has shifted.
Weather, normal wear, structural movement, or aging materials may have started the change. Several changes appearing in the same area deserve a closer look.
Look for: cracks, gaps, buckling, open seams, loose flashing, warped materials, or separating sealant.
Yesterday’s Fix Is Back
A leak was patched. Weeks later, water returns nearby.
Recurring damage may point to a larger issue missed during the first visit. Past invoices and service notes can connect work completed months or even years apart.
Look for: frequent service calls, previous patches, recurring complaints, or rising costs in one area.
The Numbers Don’t Add Up
Business hours haven’t changed. Occupancy is steady. Energy costs are climbing.
Higher usage may point to air leaks, damaged insulation, failing seals, roofing concerns, or an HVAC system working harder than usual. Changes in comfort can offer another lead.
Look for: rising utility costs, longer HVAC cycles, drafts, or uneven temperatures.
The Case File Is Missing
When was the roof installed? Which areas have been repaired? Is there an active warranty? When was your last inspection?
Missing records make those questions harder to answer. Photos, warranties, invoices, inspection reports, and service notes create a history you can reference when new concerns surface.
Look for: undocumented work, unknown installation dates, missing warranties, or incomplete maintenance records.
Solve the Case
One clue may not tell you much. Several clues can help solve the case unfolding across your property.
Green Arrow's Commercial Building & Roof Maintenance Checklist gives you a practical way to continue the investigation, document what you find, and stay ahead of costly repairs.