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. By detecting issues early, roof inspections help maintain structural integrity, prolong the lifespan of the roof, and minimize costly damages.

Insurance providers often request roof inspections for multiple purposes. For example, suppose you are purchasing a new home and need insurance coverage. This inspection helps the insurance provider verify that the roof is in good shape and free from major defects. Roof inspections during claims help insurers distinguish between covered damages and pre-existing issues. Insurance providers sometimes require roof inspections when renewing a home insurance policy to review potential risks. By assessing the roof’s current state, insurance companies can calculate the level of risk associated with the property. Ultimately, roof inspections help insurers assess property risks and ensure fair policy pricing.

While a roof inspection and a roof survey serve similar functions, they differ in how comprehensive they are. A roof inspection is a visual examination of the roof and its components conducted by one of SNR Roofing’s professional contractors. Roof inspections include checking flashing, roofing materials, and structural elements such as 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. The primary goal of a roof inspection is to detect existing issues and suggest necessary repairs or upkeep. Roof inspections are usually focused on the immediate condition of the roof and do not typically involve detailed measurements or testing. On the other hand, a roof survey is a more detailed and comprehensive assessment of the roof and its condition. Beyond visual checks, roof surveys may involve structural testing and detailed material assessments. Surveys can involve moisture testing, material thickness measurements, or using high-tech tools to detect hidden issues. Since surveys require detailed analysis, they tend to be lengthier and pricier than basic roof inspections. Roof surveys are ideal for commercial, industrial, or high-risk roofs that require in-depth analysis.

Buying or selling a property? Before purchasing or selling, a roof inspection helps identify any necessary repairs or concerns. 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 more than 20 years old: A roof that has surpassed two decades should be inspected to avoid unexpected failures. If you are experiencing roof-related problems: 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.

Several factors, such as roof size, inspection difficulty, and current workload, determine how long it takes to receive your report. 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. The length of time this takes will depend on the complexity of the inspection. On average, you can expect to receive your full report a few days after the inspection is carried out. For residential properties, we often offer an initial inspection summary on the same day.