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.
Location
Room / area
Exact spot
What is above / behind / nearby
Visible signs
- Staining or discoloration
- Active dripping or pooling
- Bubbling paint or soft surfaces
- Warping, lifting or swelling materials
Smell and air
- Damp or musty smell
- Smell stronger in certain areas
- Smell changes with weather or use
Timing and context
- Appears or worsens after rain
- Relates to using a fixture nearby/above
- Recurring or seasonal
- First noticed (date)
Photos taken
- Wide shot showing location
- Close-up with scale reference
- Dated photos to track change
- Source area if safely visible
Safety note
Keep clear of water near electrical fittings and treat it as a hazard.
Professional contacts
Who you plan to contact (no specific endorsements implied).
Frequently asked questions
Questions about this resource
Does this help with an insurance claim?
This is an educational planning aid for documenting what you see — it does not provide insurance or legal advice. For claims, follow your insurer's process and any professional advice you receive.
Will it identify the source of the water?
No. It does not diagnose. Good documentation helps a qualified professional locate the source faster, but the assessment is theirs to make.
What if water is near electrics?
Treat it as a hazard. Keep clear, do not touch water near electrical fittings, and seek qualified help promptly.
Keep planning
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Free planning resources →The hub for all free templates and planning resources.Home problem documentation template →A general companion for any home problem.Water Stains on Walls and Ceilings →How to think about and document water stains.Roof Leak Planning Guide →Documenting a suspected roof leak safely.Construction guides →Educational building-system planning.Renovation contractors →How to prepare for a contractor conversation.