A roof inspection is conducted to evaluate the roof's overall health and detect any existing or potential problems. An inspection helps identify wear and tear, structural issues, and any required maintenance to keep the roof in good shape. 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.

There are several reasons why an insurer may need a professional roof inspection. If you are buying a new house and seeking insurance, an inspection may be necessary. The insurer will likely request an inspection to confirm that the roof is structurally sound and doesn’t require urgent maintenance. When making a roof-related insurance claim, a survey is often required to assess the extent of the damage and its cause. As part of policy renewal, insurers may mandate a roof inspection to reassess coverage eligibility. 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.

While a roof inspection and a roof survey serve similar functions, they differ in how comprehensive they are. Roof inspections are primarily visual assessments performed by roofing professionals to check for surface-level problems. The inspection process covers various components, including roofing materials, flashing, and additional features like skylights and chimneys. Our experts check for any wear and tear, damage, or structural concerns that could impact the roof’s performance. A key purpose of roof inspections is to pinpoint defects and propose repair or maintenance solutions. A standard roof inspection is more surface-level and does not typically involve advanced diagnostic tests. In contrast, a roof survey provides a more in-depth evaluation of the roof's overall state. 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. Surveys can involve moisture testing, material thickness measurements, or using high-tech tools to detect hidden issues. Because surveys involve more extensive testing, they take longer to complete and may cost more than standard inspections. Roof surveys are ideal for commercial, industrial, or high-risk roofs that require in-depth analysis.

Buying or selling a property? 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: A roof inspection is essential after severe weather to assess storm damage and necessary repairs. If your roof is more than 20 years old: 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. If you are experiencing roof-related problems: 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.

How quickly you get your roof inspection report depends on the size of the roof, the level of assessment needed, and our availability. Generally, a standard roof inspection takes a few hours, though the time required depends on roof size and the extent of the assessment. Following the survey, we take time to analyze the data and prepare a detailed report for you. 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. For residential properties, we often offer an initial inspection summary on the same day.