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. Getting a roof inspection safeguards a building’s structure, increases roof longevity, and reduces the risk of expensive future repairs.

Insurance companies request roof surveys to assess property conditions and minimize risks. If you're a homebuyer looking for insurance coverage, a roof survey might be mandatory. 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. Insurance providers sometimes require roof inspections when renewing a home insurance policy to review potential risks. A thorough roof evaluation allows the insurer to gauge potential liabilities and adjust coverage accordingly. Ultimately, roof inspections help insurers assess property risks and ensure fair policy pricing.

The key difference between a roof inspection and a roof survey is the level of assessment and testing involved. A standard roof inspection involves visually checking the roof and its key elements for any visible issues. The inspection process covers various components, including roofing materials, flashing, and additional features like skylights and chimneys. The inspection focuses on spotting issues such as leaks, deterioration, or structural weaknesses that might affect the roof. Roof inspections help identify roofing concerns and offer expert recommendations for maintenance or fixes. 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. In addition to visual examinations, roof surveys often include technical analysis and in-depth condition reporting. This may include testing the roof deck’s moisture content, measuring the roofing material’s thickness, or using specialised equipment to identify problems that are not visible to the naked eye. Because surveys involve more extensive testing, they take longer to complete and may cost more than standard inspections. More detailed roof surveys are typically conducted for complex properties or when specific repair insights are required.

Selling or acquiring a house? Before purchasing or selling, a roof inspection helps identify any necessary repairs or concerns. 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. Aging roofs need professional evaluation: Older roofs are prone to leaks, structural issues, and general wear—an inspection can help detect these problems early. Noticing leaks or water damage? Persistent leaks, water stains, or missing shingles indicate it’s time for a professional roof assessment.

The time required to receive your roof inspection report varies based on factors like roof size, inspection complexity, and our scheduling. Most roof inspections are completed within hours, but more detailed assessments may extend the process. After gathering all necessary details, we document our findings and compile a professional inspection report. For intricate roof assessments, compiling the final report may take longer than usual. On average, you can expect to receive your full report a few days after the inspection is carried out. A preliminary assessment for home roofs is often available right after the inspection is completed.