A professional roof inspection determines the condition of a roof and highlights any defects or weaknesses. Roof surveys focus on evaluating the existing state of a roof, finding weak points, and advising on repairs. Roof inspections are typically performed before buying or selling a home, after a significant weather event, or as part of a regular maintenance schedule. Roof inspections can help to protect the structural integrity of a building, extend the life of a roof, and prevent costly repairs down the line.

An insurance company may require a roof inspection for a variety of reasons. When insuring a newly purchased home, an inspection ensures the roof meets policy requirements. The insurer will likely request an inspection to confirm that the roof is structurally sound and doesn’t require urgent maintenance. Similarly, if you are filing a claim with your insurance company, they may require a roof inspection to determine the extent of the damage and whether the damage was caused by a covered event (such as a storm or hail). A roof survey might be necessary during policy renewal to confirm the roof remains in good condition. A thorough roof evaluation allows the insurer to gauge potential liabilities and adjust coverage accordingly. A roof survey plays a crucial role in helping insurance providers determine coverage terms and potential liabilities.

While a roof inspection and a roof survey serve similar functions, they differ in how comprehensive they are. Roof inspections focus on surface-level issues, evaluating the overall state of the roof through visual analysis. The inspection process covers various components, including roofing materials, flashing, and additional features like skylights and chimneys. We will look for signs of damage, wear and tear, and other issues that may affect the integrity and function of the roof. A roof inspection aims to identify any problems or areas of concern and provide recommendations for repairs or maintenance as needed. Roof inspections are usually focused on the immediate condition of the roof and do not typically involve detailed measurements or testing. A full roof survey goes beyond a visual inspection, incorporating advanced testing methods. Roof surveys combine traditional inspections with advanced evaluations to obtain in-depth data on roof conditions. Advanced testing such as thermal scanning or moisture assessments helps reveal hidden roofing concerns. Since surveys require detailed analysis, they tend to be lengthier and pricier than basic roof inspections. More detailed roof surveys are typically conducted for complex properties or when specific repair insights are required.

Buying or selling a property? A roof inspection provides clarity on structural issues that may affect the value of a home. After a storm, hail, or other severe weather: Hail, storms, and heavy winds can cause hidden roof damage, making an inspection crucial. For roofs aging 20+ years: A roof that has surpassed two decades should be inspected to avoid unexpected failures. Noticing leaks or water damage? If you are noticing leaks, water damage, or other issues with your roof, a roof inspection can help to identify the cause of the problem and suggest repair solutions.

The length of time it takes to receive your roof inspection report will depend on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of your roof, our current availability, and workload. Generally, a standard roof inspection takes a few hours, though the time required depends on roof size and the extent of the assessment. Once the assessment is completed, we carefully review the findings before finalizing your inspection report. The length of time this takes will depend on the complexity of the inspection. Inspection reports are usually available within a few days, but this may vary based on the type of roof and findings. In many cases, homeowners receive a preliminary inspection overview immediately after the survey.