A roof inspection catches small problems before they become leaks, and tells you how much life your roof has left. It is worth doing after big storms, before buying or selling a home, and every so often as routine care.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent roofing provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
When to get a roof inspection
These are the best times to have your roof checked.
- After a hail storm or high winds
- Before buying or selling a home
- If the roof is more than 15 years old
- After finding a stain on a ceiling
- Before hurricane or storm season
- When you notice granules in the gutters
What to do right now
Leave climbing on the roof to the inspector. Falls from roofs and ladders cause serious injuries every year.
- Find out how old the roof is, if you can
- Note any leaks, stains or damp spots inside
- Clear a path to the attic hatch
- Photograph anything you have noticed from the ground
- Ask whether the inspection includes the attic
- Book the inspection
What an inspection covers
Roof surface
Shingles, tiles or membrane are checked for damage, wear and missing pieces.
Flashing and openings
Metal around chimneys, vents, skylights and walls is checked for gaps and rust.
Attic
Roof boards, insulation and ventilation are checked for leaks, mold and airflow.
Gutters and drainage
Gutters, downspouts and roof drains are checked for blockages and damage.
How a roof inspection works
- The inspector looks at the roof from the ground, then up close or by drone.
- The attic is checked for leaks, damp and ventilation.
- Problems are photographed.
- The inspector estimates the roof’s remaining life.
- You receive a written report with recommended repairs.
Getting the most from an inspection
- Ask for photos of every problem found
- Ask for an estimate of the roof’s remaining life
- Keep the report for insurance and future sale
- Get a second opinion before a large replacement
- Schedule small repairs before the next rainy season
Questions to ask before you hire
- Will you go on the roof, use a drone, or both?
- Do you inspect the attic too?
- Will I get a written report with photos?
- Is the inspection free if I hire you for repairs?
- Are you licensed and insured?
Frequently asked questions
How often should a roof be inspected?
Many homeowners have it checked every year or two, and after any major storm.
How long does an inspection take?
Most take about an hour, depending on the size of the roof and whether the attic is included.
Do I need an inspection when buying a home?
It is a good idea. General home inspections may not look closely at the roof, and a roof report helps you plan for repairs.
Can a drone replace climbing the roof?
Drones are useful for steep or fragile roofs, but some problems are only found up close or in the attic.
Learn more
Our main roofing guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Sifixit is a free referral service and does not provide home services. Calls may be answered by a partner call center or connected directly to independent local providers, who are solely responsible for their work, pricing, licensing and insurance.