Roof inspection
A roof inspection checks the shingles or other covering, flashing, vents, gutters, attic ventilation and signs of leaks, then tells you what needs attention now and what can wait. It's most useful after storms, before a home sale, and as a roof ages.
- Fast callback on emergency requests
- Independent local roofers that serve your ZIP
- Photos and a written report for your insurer
- Free to call; the roofer quotes before work starts
Inspectors look at the roof surface for wear and damage, the metal details for rust and gaps, the attic for stains, daylight and ventilation, and the gutters for granules. A written report with photos is what you want from it.
After hail or wind, an inspection is the starting point for any insurance claim. See hail damage roof repair. Before buying a home, a dedicated roof inspection goes deeper than a general home inspection.
Roof Inspection at a glance
- What it is
- A roof inspection checks the shingles or other covering, flashing, vents, gutters, attic ventilation and signs of leaks, then tells you what needs attention now and what can wait.
- Urgency
- Soon. Start within a day or two.
- Typical steps
- Exterior check → Attic check → Report → Next steps
- Who does it
- An independent, local roofing contractor
Signs
When you need roof inspection
- A hail or windstorm passed through your area
- You're buying or selling a home
- The roof is 15 years old or more
- You've had a leak and want to know what else is failing
Process
What the crew does
- 1
Exterior check
Covering, flashing, vents, penetrations and gutters are inspected.
- 2
Attic check
Decking, ventilation, insulation and signs of past leaks are reviewed.
- 3
Report
You get photos and a written summary of findings and priorities.
- 4
Next steps
Repairs, a claim, or monitoring, depending on what was found.
Cost
What affects the price
Every job is scoped on site. These are the factors that move the number.
- Roof size and complexity
- Access and pitch
- Whether a drone or detailed claim report is included
- Many roofers inspect for free when quoting work
Before the crew arrives
What you can do, and when to stop
Safe to do
- Look for granules in gutters
- Check the attic for stains or daylight
- Look for sagging lines along the ridge
Stop and call if
- Walking on the roof yourself
FAQ
Roof Inspection questions
How often should a roof be inspected?
Once a year and after major storms is a common guideline, especially once a roof passes the middle of its expected life.
Is a home inspection enough for the roof?
A general home inspector often views the roof from the ground or a ladder. A roofer's inspection is more detailed and useful when the roof is older or damage is suspected.
Available in 51 states
Related
Related services
Hail Damage Roof Repair
Hail damage shows up as bruises or dents in shingles, loose granules, cracked vents and dented metal.
Learn more
Roof Repair
Roof repair fixes specific problems, such as missing or damaged shingles, loose flashing, cracked vent boots or worn ridge caps, without replacing the whole roof.
Learn more
Roof Replacement
Roof replacement removes the old roofing down to the decking, repairs damaged decking, and installs new underlayment, flashing, ventilation and roofing.
Learn moreRoof leaking or storm-damaged?
Stop the source if you can, then call. We'll connect you with a local roofing contractor that serves your ZIP.
Fast callback on emergency requests