Roof inspections are a process used to assess the condition of a roof and identify any issues or problems. A roof inspection aims to determine the roof’s current condition, identify any potential problems or areas of concern, and provide recommendations for repairs or maintenance as needed. People usually request roof inspections when purchasing or selling a property, following storms, or as part of routine maintenance. By detecting issues early, roof inspections help maintain structural integrity, prolong the lifespan of the roof, and minimize costly damages.

A roof inspection may be required by an insurance company to evaluate potential risks. When securing home insurance for a newly purchased property, insurers may require a roof check. A roof check allows the insurer to assess whether immediate repairs are necessary before issuing coverage. 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. An inspection gives the insurance company insight into the roof’s durability and potential risks. A roof survey plays a crucial role in helping insurance providers determine coverage terms and potential liabilities.

The key difference between a roof inspection and a roof survey is the level of assessment and testing involved. Roof inspections are primarily visual assessments performed by roofing professionals to check for surface-level problems. During an inspection, the roofing materials, flashing, skylights, and chimneys are all checked for any visible damage or wear. 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 roof survey offers a far more thorough and technical analysis compared to a standard inspection. While surveys include visual assessments, they also incorporate technical measurements and diagnostic tests. Roof surveys often include techniques like thermal imaging, moisture detection, and material integrity tests. Because surveys involve more extensive testing, they take longer to complete and may cost more than standard inspections. Roof surveys are ideal for commercial, industrial, or high-risk roofs that require in-depth analysis.

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: Extreme weather can weaken roofing structures, and a survey helps detect any critical issues. If your roof is reaching 20 years or older: Older roofs are prone to leaks, structural issues, and general wear—an inspection can help detect these problems early. If you suspect your roof has problems: Persistent leaks, water stains, or missing shingles indicate it’s time for a professional roof assessment.

Roof inspection report turnaround times depend on multiple factors, including roof structure, workload, and complexity. Depending on the roof’s size and features, the inspection itself is usually done within a few hours. After gathering all necessary details, we document our findings and compile a professional inspection report. How long it takes to prepare the report is influenced by the complexity of the survey and required documentation. Inspection reports are usually available within a few days, but this may vary based on the type of roof and findings. For residential properties, we often offer an initial inspection summary on the same day.