Roof inspections are a process used to assess the condition of a roof and identify any issues or problems. Roof surveys focus on evaluating the existing state of a roof, finding weak points, and advising on repairs. Regular roof inspections are important when buying a home, post-storm, or as part of annual upkeep. 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. If you are buying a new house and seeking insurance, an inspection may be necessary. By evaluating the roof’s condition, the insurer can determine if the home qualifies for coverage without additional risks. Roof inspections during claims help insurers distinguish between covered damages and pre-existing issues. For ongoing insurance coverage, periodic roof inspections help insurers adjust risk assessments. An inspection gives the insurance company insight into the roof’s durability and potential risks. Insurance companies rely on roof inspections to make informed decisions about policy approvals and renewals.

The key difference between a roof inspection and a roof survey is the level of assessment and testing involved. During a roof inspection, experts visually assess the roof’s structure, materials, and general condition. 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. Through inspections, specialists diagnose roofing issues and provide actionable repair or maintenance advice. A standard roof inspection is more surface-level and does not typically involve advanced diagnostic tests. On the other hand, a roof survey is a more detailed and comprehensive assessment of the roof and its condition. While surveys include visual assessments, they also incorporate technical measurements and diagnostic tests. Surveys can involve moisture testing, material thickness measurements, or using high-tech tools to detect hidden issues. Because surveys involve more extensive testing, they take longer to complete and may cost more than standard inspections. They are particularly beneficial for large-scale or intricate roofing structures that need a deeper evaluation.

If you are buying or selling a home: A professional roof survey ensures you are aware of any roofing problems before buying or selling a property. After a major weather event: If your area has experienced a storm, hail, or other weather events that may have damaged your roof, a roof inspection can help to determine the extent of the damage and identify any repairs that may be needed. If your roof is reaching 20 years or older: A roof that has surpassed two decades should be inspected to avoid unexpected failures. If you suspect your roof has problems: Roof inspections diagnose structural issues, leaks, and potential repair needs to prevent costly damage.

Several factors, such as roof size, inspection difficulty, and current workload, determine how long it takes to receive your report. A typical roof survey lasts a few hours, though larger or more complex roofs may take longer. Following the survey, we take time to analyze the data and prepare a detailed report for you. For intricate roof assessments, compiling the final report may take longer than usual. Inspection reports are usually available within a few days, but this may vary based on the type of roof and findings. A preliminary assessment for home roofs is often available right after the inspection is completed.