Following is my question along with the answer that you provided. Please note that we do not have a sloped roof. We have a four story townhouse that has a flat top roof with a loft on the fourth floor leading to a rooftop patio. The home is 4 years old and has developed rain water leaks that have eluded the repairmen. All possible seams have been re-caulked on the roof, around the windows and doors, and every air vent checked for possible rain intrusion. We are out of ideas as to where this seapage is coming from or to know who are the real experts to help us. The last rainfall during the night did not immediately cause damage but several hours later ( 5 to 8 hrs) some seapage has come down through the third floor and appears on the doorframe in one room and on the floor in another room. There are also water stains in the ceiling in the kitchen located on the second floor. It would appear our leak is not direct and travels a course before entering our home and causing damage as it drips onto our hardwood floors causing these to lift slightly or warp. The home is still under warranty and the construction company is aware of the problem, however, they have not been able to find the source. Where do we turn and who is the best expert to call? Answer: I always feel that leaks like this have to originate at a transition from one level of roof or type of roof to another. You have both sloped and flat portions and there has to be a transition there. That's the first one to check. If there are no results there, I'd start with the municipal building inspector as there were supposed to have been strategic inspections as the construction progressed. From there, I'm afraid you'll be going to a structural engineer for a complete analyses of the building envelope.
Answer:
You can then write off everything before "I'd start with the municpal building - - - -" as your next option.
