Roof Inspection Checklist: What Pros Look For (With Photos)
When a storm barrels through or your ceiling starts to stain, there’s no time to waste. Even if your roof seems fine, neglecting scheduled inspections is a gamble. Roofs are like the brakes on your car—ignore them, and one day you’ll pay for it.
At Robert Nelson Roofing, we treat every inspection like it’s our own home or business. We know what can go wrong, and we know how fast it happens. Here’s what we check—step by step—with real photos, so you know exactly what to expect.
Why Inspections Matter 🏠
A roof is more than shingles or metal sheets. It’s your building’s helmet—protecting everything underneath. Small problems, left unchecked, become expensive emergencies. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), regular inspections at least twice a year (and after severe weather) can double your roof’s lifespan.
Think of this checklist as a seatbelt for your property. Skipping it? That’s like driving blindfolded.
Checklist of Inspection Points
Our team at Robert Nelson Roofing follows a proven process, honed by years of hands-on experience. Here’s what we look for—inside, outside, and everywhere in between.
1. Structural Check
- Sagging or uneven rooflines
Look at the ridge from the street. Do you see dips or waves?
- Decking movement
We gently walk the roof surface. Spongy spots mean trouble below. - Chimney, vent, and skylight alignment
Shifting or tilting here can signal deeper issues.
2. Surface Materials: Shingles, Tiles, or Metal
- Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
Even a single lost shingle can invite leaks.
- Granule loss (asphalt roofs)
Check gutters and downspouts for shingle grit. - Corrosion or open seams (metal roofs)
Even modern metal roofs need a close eye. - Cracked or loose tiles
Water sneaks through the smallest cracks.
3. Flashing & Sealants
- Loose or rusted flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
This thin metal is your roof’s last line of defense.
- Dried, cracked, or missing sealants
Caulking doesn’t last forever.
4. Gutters & Downspouts
- Clogged or sagging gutters
Overflow leads to rot and foundation cracks.
- Leaky or disconnected joints
Water should never pool near your walls. - Proper downspout extension
Downspouts should carry water at least 3–5 feet away.
5. Attic, Ventilation, & Insulation
- Signs of leaks: stains, mold, or wet insulation
Sometimes, the first clues are inside.
- Blocked or insufficient vents
Good airflow prevents ice dams and rot. - Proper insulation depth
Too little insulation means higher energy bills.
6. Documentation & Photos
- Photo records of all findings
A picture’s worth a thousand words—and helpful for insurance. - Written inspection report
We detail every concern and recommended action.
DIY vs. Pro Inspections
Some things you can check yourself. Grab binoculars and do a quick scan after storms. But a pro brings trained eyes, safety gear, and know-how. We spot what most folks miss—like subtle flashing damage or hidden mold.
DIY:
- Look for missing shingles, obvious debris, and gutter clogs.
- Scan your attic for stains or daylight coming through.
Call a Pro for:
- Walking on the roof (slips happen fast!)
- Checking decking for movement.
- Diagnosing leaks or persistent stains.
- Annual and post-storm inspections.
According to OSHA guidelines, roof work is one of the most hazardous jobs in construction. Safety always comes first.
Common Red Flags 🚩
Wondering what’s urgent? Here are signs you shouldn’t ignore:
- Sudden ceiling stains or drips
- Moss or algae streaks (traps moisture)
- Curling, cracked, or missing roof materials
- Soft spots when you walk on the roof
- Rusting or lifted flashing
- Shingle granules in gutters
- Sagging gutters or water pooling at the foundation
- Daylight through the attic roof boards
If you spot any of these, don’t wait—call for emergency roofing help right away.
After the Inspection
Once the inspection’s done, you should get a clear, itemized report. At Robert Nelson Roofing, we back our findings with photos and straightforward recommendations. No upsell, just facts.
What you should expect:
- A prioritized list of repairs (urgent, soon, or future)
- Options for eco-friendly materials if needed
- Guidance on routine maintenance, like gutter cleaning or cap services
And remember: small, regular fixes cost less than major repairs after years of neglect.
Local Timing: When Should You Schedule?
Roof needs change with the seasons:
- Spring/Fall: Best for general inspections. Weather is milder, so problems are easier to spot and fix.
- After storms: Always check for damage after high winds, hail, or heavy rain.
- Before winter: Make sure your roof is ready for snow, ice, or freezing rain.
- After big temperature swings: Heat and cold both stress roofing materials.
If you’re searching for “Gutter Repair near you” or “emergency roofing” after a storm, call as soon as it’s safe.
Practical Tips for Home & Business Owners
- Trim trees away from your roof to prevent punctures or extra debris.
- Clean gutters at least twice a year—more if you have lots of trees.
- Schedule professional inspections every 6–12 months.
- Take photos before and after storms for your records.
FAQ: Roof Inspection
How long does a roof inspection take?
Most take 45–90 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of your roof.
Do I need to be home?
It helps, but isn’t always required. We’ll need access to your attic for a full check.
Will you find every problem?
We find what’s visible and accessible. Hidden damage sometimes appears after opening things up.
Is it okay to delay small repairs?
Minor issues can become emergencies fast. Fix them early and save money.
Ready to Protect Your Property?
Whether you own a home or manage a business, inspections are your first line of defense. Don’t let hidden roof issues turn into costly disasters.
Call Robert Nelson Roofing now — or reach us anytime at 888-897-9811 .