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. 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.

An insurance company may require a roof inspection for a variety of reasons. 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. For ongoing insurance coverage, periodic roof inspections help insurers adjust risk assessments. By assessing the roof’s current state, insurance companies can calculate the level of risk associated with the property. 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. The inspection process covers various components, including roofing materials, flashing, and additional features like 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. These inspections primarily assess the roof’s present condition and usually do not include extensive testing or measurements. A full roof survey goes beyond a visual inspection, incorporating advanced testing methods. In addition to visual examinations, roof surveys often include technical analysis and in-depth condition reporting. Advanced testing such as thermal scanning or moisture assessments helps reveal hidden roofing concerns. Because surveys involve more extensive testing, they take longer to complete and may cost more than standard inspections. More detailed roof surveys are typically conducted for complex properties or when specific repair insights are required.

Purchasing or listing a home? A professional roof survey ensures you are aware of any roofing problems before buying or selling a property. After a major weather event: After severe weather, a roof inspection ensures that no unseen damage threatens your property. For roofs aging 20+ years: Older roofs are prone to leaks, structural issues, and general wear—an inspection can help detect these problems early. Seeing signs of roof deterioration? If your roof shows signs of distress, an inspection ensures that necessary fixes are identified and addressed quickly.

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. After the inspection is complete, we will typically need some time to compile the inspection report and document our findings. How long it takes to prepare the report is influenced by the complexity of the survey and required documentation. Most customers receive their roof inspection report within a few days after the assessment. In many cases, homeowners receive a preliminary inspection overview immediately after the survey.