Roof surveys help assess the state of a roof, uncovering issues that may require attention. An inspection helps identify wear and tear, structural issues, and any required maintenance to keep the roof in good shape. People usually request roof inspections when purchasing or selling a property, following storms, or as part of routine maintenance. 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.

Insurance providers often request roof inspections for multiple purposes. If you're a homebuyer looking for insurance coverage, a roof survey might be mandatory. In that case, the insurance company may require a roof inspection to ensure that the roof is in good condition and not in need of immediate repairs. If you submit an insurance claim for roof damage, the insurer may need an inspection to verify the cause and severity of the issue. For ongoing insurance coverage, periodic roof inspections help insurers adjust risk assessments. An inspection gives the insurance company insight into the roof’s durability and potential risks. In summary, roof inspections are essential for insurers to assess risks and decide on appropriate coverage.

The key difference between a roof inspection and a roof survey is the level of assessment and testing involved. 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. We will look for signs of damage, wear and tear, and other issues that may affect the integrity and function of the roof. The primary goal of a roof inspection is to detect existing issues and suggest necessary repairs or upkeep. Unlike roof surveys, inspections do not usually include in-depth testing, focusing instead on current visible conditions. A roof survey offers a far more thorough and technical analysis compared to a standard inspection. 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. 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.

Before finalizing a home purchase or sale: A professional roof survey ensures you are aware of any roofing problems before buying or selling a property. Post-storm roof assessment: After severe weather, a roof inspection ensures that no unseen damage threatens your property. Aging roofs need professional evaluation: A roof that has surpassed two decades should be inspected to avoid unexpected failures. If you suspect your roof has problems: A roof inspection helps pinpoint the root cause of roofing problems and offers expert repair recommendations.

The time required to receive your roof inspection report varies based on factors like roof size, inspection complexity, and our scheduling. A typical roof survey lasts a few hours, though larger or more complex roofs may take longer. 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. Inspection reports are usually available within a few days, but this may vary based on the type of roof and findings. For residential properties, we often offer an initial inspection summary on the same day.