Roof Inspection Checklist

While we recognize that repairing your roof is never convenient, it pales in comparison to the cost and inconvenience of ignoring the impact of what your roof has endured over the years. Direct sunlight, hail, wind, acid rain, ice and snow will affect the condition of your home’s roof over time and affect its ability to shelter you from the elements. The older a roof is, the more sensitive it becomes to these factors. Many people are surprised to learn the extent of their roof damage, especially when their shingles appear to look fine.

Exterior Roof Inspection

• Severely blistered, curled or split shingles.
• Loose or missing shingles.
• Loose nails.
• Exposed nails.
• Signs of missing caulk to seal flashing.
• Rusty or corroded metal flashing.
• Damaged or missing flashing.
• Sagging on the ridges.
• Broken seals on shingles.
• Excessive granule loss.
• Examine the chimney for cracks.
• Rubber boots at the top of pipes for dry rot.
• Review gutters and downspouts.
• Examine the fascia board for any damage or rot.
• Survey the condition of the siding above the roof.
• Gutters and eaves for proper shingle overhangs.
• Interior Roof Inspection

Cracks on roof sheathing.

• Measure and calculate proper attic ventilation.
• Sagging decking (between rafters).
• Outside light is coming through.
• Attic intake vents for proper ventilation.
• Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans for proper ventilation.
• Leaks around vents, chimneys and other holes to the outside

Some contractors provide a basic roof inspection, which consists of examining the exterior of the roof (sometimes only from street level) and basic components such as flashings. While this is necessary, a more thorough inspection can help identify areas of concern and items that could potentially lead to further (and more costly) damage. This is not a complete checklist but rather recommendations. Please consult a professional roof inspector to complete a proper roof inspection.