A roof inspection is conducted to evaluate the roof's overall health and detect any existing or potential problems. 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. A properly conducted roof survey ensures that a building remains secure, prevents major repair expenses, and keeps the roof in top condition.

Insurance providers often request roof inspections for multiple purposes. 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. If you submit an insurance claim for roof damage, the insurer may need an inspection to verify the cause and severity of the issue. 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. Overall, a roof inspection is typically required by an insurance company to evaluate the roof’s condition and determine the risk of insuring the property.

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. A roof inspection typically involves thoroughly examining the roof surface, including the roofing material, flashing, and other components 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. 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. In addition to visual examinations, roof surveys often include technical analysis and in-depth condition reporting. 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 often used for larger or more complex roofs or when more detailed information about the roof’s condition is needed for repair or maintenance purposes.

Before finalizing a home purchase or sale: 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. After a storm, hail, or other severe weather: Hail, storms, and heavy winds can cause hidden roof damage, making an inspection crucial. If your roof is reaching 20 years or older: Over time, roofs become more vulnerable to damage, making routine inspections important for maintenance. Noticing leaks or water damage? 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.

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 the inspection is complete, we will typically need some time to compile the inspection report and document our findings. A more complex inspection will take additional time to analyze and document findings properly. On average, you can expect to receive your full report a few days after the inspection is carried out. In many cases, homeowners receive a preliminary inspection overview immediately after the survey.