Roof inspections are a process used to assess the condition of a roof and identify any issues or problems. By inspecting the roof, specialists can detect potential risks and provide expert recommendations to prolong its lifespan. A roof assessment is commonly carried out during property transactions, after severe weather conditions, or to ensure ongoing maintenance. Getting a roof inspection safeguards a building’s structure, increases roof longevity, and reduces the risk of expensive future repairs.

There are several reasons why an insurer may need a professional roof inspection. When insuring a newly purchased home, an inspection ensures the roof meets policy requirements. This inspection helps the insurance provider verify that the roof is in good shape and free from major defects. When making a roof-related insurance claim, a survey is often required to assess the extent of the damage and its cause. As part of policy renewal, insurers may mandate a roof inspection to reassess coverage eligibility. A thorough roof evaluation allows the insurer to gauge potential liabilities and adjust coverage accordingly. Insurance companies rely on roof inspections to make informed decisions about policy approvals and renewals.

While a roof inspection and a roof survey serve similar functions, they differ in how comprehensive they are. Roof inspections are primarily visual assessments performed by roofing professionals to check for surface-level problems. Roof inspections include checking flashing, roofing materials, and structural elements such as skylights and chimneys. Inspectors identify any potential weak points, leaks, or damage that could compromise the roof’s function. A roof inspection aims to identify any problems or areas of concern and provide recommendations for repairs or maintenance as needed. A standard roof inspection is more surface-level and does not typically involve advanced diagnostic tests. In contrast, a roof survey provides a more in-depth evaluation of the roof's overall state. While surveys include visual assessments, they also incorporate technical measurements and diagnostic tests. This may include testing the roof deck’s moisture content, measuring the roofing material’s thickness, or using specialised equipment to identify problems that are not visible to the naked eye. A full roof survey is typically a more in-depth process, requiring more time and investment than an inspection. For larger buildings or roofs with structural concerns, surveys provide the detailed insights needed for long-term maintenance planning.

Buying or selling a property? Before purchasing or selling, a roof inspection helps identify any necessary repairs or concerns. After a major weather event: Extreme weather can weaken roofing structures, and a survey helps detect any critical issues. Older roofs require inspections: A roof that has surpassed two decades should be inspected to avoid unexpected failures. If you suspect your roof has problems: Persistent leaks, water stains, or missing shingles indicate it’s time for a professional roof assessment.

Several factors, such as roof size, inspection difficulty, and current workload, determine how long it takes to receive your report. In most cases, our roof inspections should take a few hours to complete, depending on the size of the roof and the number of components that need to be inspected. After the inspection is complete, we will typically need some time to compile the inspection report and document our findings. For intricate roof assessments, compiling the final report may take longer than usual. Typically, reports are delivered within a few days, depending on the survey complexity. For most domestic properties, we can provide a preliminary report on the same day as the inspection.