Roof inspections are a process used to assess the condition of a roof and identify any issues or problems. An inspection helps identify wear and tear, structural issues, and any required maintenance to keep the roof in good shape. Regular roof inspections are important when buying a home, post-storm, or as part of annual upkeep. 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 insuring a newly purchased home, an inspection ensures the roof meets policy requirements. 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. Insurance companies rely on roof inspections to make informed decisions about policy approvals and renewals.

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. Roof inspections include checking flashing, roofing materials, and structural elements 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. Roof inspections are usually focused on the immediate condition of the roof and do not typically involve detailed measurements or testing. In contrast, a roof survey provides a more in-depth evaluation of the roof's overall state. Roof surveys combine traditional inspections with advanced evaluations to obtain in-depth data on roof conditions. Roof surveys often include techniques like thermal imaging, moisture detection, and material integrity tests. Since surveys require detailed analysis, they tend to be lengthier and pricier than basic roof inspections. They are particularly beneficial for large-scale or intricate roofing structures that need a deeper evaluation.

Purchasing or listing a home? Understanding the condition of the roof before a transaction helps avoid unexpected repair costs. Following extreme weather conditions: 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. If your roof is more than 20 years old: Older roofs are prone to leaks, structural issues, and general wear—an inspection can help detect these problems early. Seeing signs of roof deterioration? Persistent leaks, water stains, or missing shingles indicate it’s time for a professional roof assessment.

How quickly you get your roof inspection report depends on the size of the roof, the level of assessment needed, and our availability. In most cases, our roof inspections should take a few hours to complete, depending on the size of the roof and the number of components that need to be inspected. Once the assessment is completed, we carefully review the findings before finalizing your inspection report. For intricate roof assessments, compiling the final report may take longer than usual. In general, you should receive your roof inspection report within a few days of the inspection being completed. A preliminary assessment for home roofs is often available right after the inspection is completed.