Parapet walls should be inspected for deteriorating copings, cracked or open mortar joints or other signs of wear and tear.  Degradation of the parapet wall can lead to water penetration into the structure, which is not only harmful to a structure, it may also cause the failure of parts of the roofing system.  Insulation, decking, framing members, and the fasteners in a mechanically-attached roofing system may all be adversely affected by moisture penetration.