A professional roof inspection determines the condition of a roof and highlights any defects or weaknesses. A roof inspection aims to determine the roof’s current condition, identify any potential problems or areas of concern, and provide recommendations for repairs or maintenance as needed. 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. When insuring a newly purchased home, an inspection ensures the roof meets policy requirements. The insurer will likely request an inspection to confirm that the roof is structurally sound and doesn’t require urgent maintenance. Similarly, if you are filing a claim with your insurance company, they may require a roof inspection to determine the extent of the damage and whether the damage was caused by a covered event (such as a storm or hail). As part of policy renewal, insurers may mandate a roof inspection to reassess coverage eligibility. An inspection gives the insurance company insight into the roof’s durability and potential risks. Ultimately, roof inspections help insurers assess property risks and ensure fair policy pricing.

The key difference between a roof inspection and a roof survey is the level of assessment and testing involved. 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. We will look for signs of damage, wear and tear, and other issues that may affect the integrity and function of the roof. A key purpose of roof inspections is to pinpoint defects and propose repair or maintenance solutions. Unlike roof surveys, inspections do not usually include in-depth testing, focusing instead on current visible conditions. On the other hand, a roof survey is a more detailed and comprehensive assessment of the roof and its condition. While surveys include visual assessments, they also incorporate technical measurements and diagnostic tests. Surveyors may use specialised tools to check for trapped moisture, structural weaknesses, or invisible defects. Due to their detailed nature, roof surveys generally take longer and are more costly than regular inspections. They are particularly beneficial for large-scale or intricate roofing structures that need a deeper evaluation.

Buying or selling a property? A roof inspection provides clarity on structural issues that may affect the value of a home. If your roof has been exposed to severe weather: Hail, storms, and heavy winds can cause hidden roof damage, making an inspection crucial. For roofs aging 20+ years: Over time, roofs become more vulnerable to damage, making routine inspections important for maintenance. Noticing leaks or water damage? Persistent leaks, water stains, or missing shingles indicate it’s time for a professional roof assessment.

The time required to receive your roof inspection report varies based on factors like roof size, inspection complexity, and our scheduling. 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. How long it takes to prepare the report is influenced by the complexity of the survey and required documentation. 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.