Roof inspections are a process used to assess the condition of a roof and identify any issues or problems. 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. 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. The insurer will likely request an inspection to confirm that the roof is structurally sound and doesn’t require urgent maintenance. 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. A thorough roof evaluation allows the insurer to gauge potential liabilities and adjust coverage accordingly. A roof survey plays a crucial role in helping insurance providers determine coverage terms and potential liabilities.

Both roof inspections and roof surveys evaluate a roof’s condition, but they vary in their depth and purpose. 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. Visible signs of wear, damage, and possible leaks are assessed to ensure the roof remains structurally sound. Through inspections, specialists diagnose roofing issues and provide actionable repair or maintenance advice. These inspections primarily assess the roof’s present condition and usually do not include extensive testing or measurements. 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. 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.

Selling or acquiring a house? Before purchasing or selling, a roof inspection helps identify any necessary repairs or concerns. After a major weather event: Extreme weather can weaken roofing structures, and a survey helps detect any critical issues. Older roofs require inspections: 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. Seeing signs of roof deterioration? 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. A typical roof survey lasts a few hours, though larger or more complex roofs may take longer. Once the assessment is completed, we carefully review the findings before finalizing your inspection report. The length of time this takes will depend on the complexity of the inspection. Typically, reports are delivered within a few days, depending on the survey complexity. For smaller domestic roofs, we can usually provide an initial report on the day of the inspection.