What needs to be clarified
Survey relief and possible runoff routes, comparing new surfaces, obstacles and prior levels without presuming the flooding source.
Materials to prepare
- Pre-work topographic drawing and heights
- Paving, gates, ditches and pooling plan
- Dated rain records and survey access
What to compare
Survey connected elevations at key points; map slope breaks, kerbs, thresholds and accessible inlets. Compare old levels within their accuracy. Relate observations to rain and ditch condition, distinguishing inferred directions from witnessed flows. Avoid uncontrolled flooding trials.
Possible outcome of the analysis
An elevation plan and probable-route map may identify obstacles to check and require rain-time observation or concealed-drain verification where evidence is incomplete.
Limits of the conclusions
A puddle identifies no exclusive source. Current relief cannot reconstruct old levels automatically; technical runoff mapping does not determine neighbours’ rights.