Roof inspections are essential for analyzing the roof's condition and spotting areas that may need repairs. Roof surveys focus on evaluating the existing state of a roof, finding weak points, and advising on repairs. A roof assessment is commonly carried out during property transactions, after severe weather conditions, or to ensure ongoing maintenance. A properly conducted roof survey ensures that a building remains secure, prevents major repair expenses, and keeps the roof in top condition.

An insurance company may require a roof inspection for a variety of reasons. If you are buying a new house and seeking insurance, an inspection may be necessary. This inspection helps the insurance provider verify that the roof is in good shape and free from major defects. To process a claim, the insurer may conduct an inspection to confirm whether the damage resulted from a covered event like hail or storms. In some cases, insurance companies may also require a roof inspection as part of the renewal process for an existing policy. An inspection gives the insurance company insight into the roof’s durability and potential risks. In summary, roof inspections are essential for insurers to assess risks and decide on appropriate coverage.

A roof inspection and a roof survey are both methods used to assess the condition of a roof, but they differ in scope and level of detail. Roof inspections are primarily visual assessments performed by roofing professionals to check for surface-level problems. Inspectors examine the roofing surface, flashing, skylights, and chimneys to detect any visible problems. 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. Basic roof inspections check for surface damage and defects but do not delve into advanced structural assessments. On the other hand, a roof survey is a more detailed and comprehensive assessment of the roof and its condition. 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. A full roof survey is typically a more in-depth process, requiring more time and investment than an inspection. 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 roof inspection can help you understand the roof’s condition and identify any potential issues that may need to be addressed before buying or selling a home. Following extreme weather conditions: A roof inspection is essential after severe weather to assess storm damage and necessary repairs. If your roof is reaching 20 years or older: As a roof ages, it is more likely to develop problems or wear out. If your roof is more than 20 years old, it is a good idea to have it inspected to identify any issues that need to be addressed. Noticing leaks or water damage? Roof inspections diagnose structural issues, leaks, and potential repair needs to prevent costly damage.

Roof inspection report turnaround times depend on multiple factors, including roof structure, workload, and complexity. Generally, a standard roof inspection takes a few hours, though the time required depends on roof size and the extent of the assessment. 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. In general, you should receive your roof inspection report within a few days of the inspection being completed. For residential properties, we often offer an initial inspection summary on the same day.