How to use this resource
- Read it on screen, or print it (Cmd/Ctrl + P) or save it as a PDF straight from your browser — nothing is gated and no sign-up is needed.
- Use it before speaking with professionals, to organise your thinking and arrive with clear, specific notes.
- Copy it by hand into a notebook if you prefer — the structure matters more than the format.
- Treat it as a planning aid, not a contract or a substitute for licensed professional advice.
Issue description
Plainly, what are you seeing or experiencing?
Location
Room / area
Exact spot
e.g. ceiling near window, under sink
What is above / behind / nearby
Timing
When first noticed
Constant or intermittent
What makes it better or worse
rain, use, season
Photos taken
Tick what you have captured; include a scale reference.
- Wide shot showing location
- Close-up with scale reference
- Dated photos to track change
- What is above / behind / nearby
Context
Weather, usage and any recent work.
- Recent works, repairs or changes
- Recent leaks or water events
- Weather around the time it appeared
- How the space is used
Changes over time
Questions for professionals
Frequently asked questions
Questions about this resource
Will this tell me what's wrong?
No. It does not diagnose. It helps you document a problem clearly so a qualified professional can assess it efficiently and accurately.
Why does documentation matter?
A dated record of what you saw, when and under what conditions often reveals patterns and saves time on site. It also helps you compare professional opinions on the same facts.
What if it looks like an emergency?
For suspected gas, electrical, structural, major water or hazardous-material situations, do not wait to document — prioritise safety and contact qualified professionals or emergency services.
Keep planning