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. Roof inspections can help to protect the structural integrity of a building, extend the life of a roof, and prevent costly repairs down the line.

There are several reasons why an insurer may need a professional roof inspection. 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. 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. Insurance companies rely on roof inspections to make informed decisions about policy approvals and renewals.

Roof inspections and roof surveys both check a roof’s condition, but their methods and detail levels differ. A roof inspection is a visual examination of the roof and its components conducted by one of SNR Roofing’s professional contractors. 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. The primary goal of a roof inspection is to detect existing issues and suggest necessary repairs or upkeep. Basic roof inspections check for surface damage and defects but do not delve into advanced structural assessments. Unlike inspections, roof surveys deliver a detailed, comprehensive assessment of the entire roofing structure. A roof survey may include a visual inspection, but it may also involve additional testing and measurements to gather more detailed information about the roof’s condition. Surveyors may use specialised tools to check for trapped moisture, structural weaknesses, or invisible defects. A full roof survey is typically a more in-depth process, requiring more time and investment than an inspection. 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.

Buying or selling a property? Understanding the condition of the roof before a transaction helps avoid unexpected repair costs. After a storm, hail, or other severe weather: 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. For roofs aging 20+ years: Aging roofing materials can deteriorate, so a professional survey helps identify weak spots. 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. 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. 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. For smaller domestic roofs, we can usually provide an initial report on the day of the inspection.