The difference comes down to a few key things
Roofing estimates and inspections are used interchangeably, but are different.
Roofing estimates are typically free and offer a quote for repair work to fix a known issue.
Roofing inspections search for unknown problems and cost between $75 and $600.
Your home’s roof has an extremely important job—keeping everyone inside safe, warm, and dry. When there is a problem with your roof, you may wonder whether you need a roof estimate or a roof inspection. They sound like interchangeable terms, but they are two very different services. A roof estimate is usually free or less expensive than a roof inspection and requires less time. But there are other differences you should consider before deciding which is best for you.
Estimates and inspections differ in their purpose, outcome, price, and the time they take to complete.
| Type of Difference | Roofing Estimate | Roofing Inspection |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | For known problems | For suspected issues |
| Outcome | Quote for repairs | Roof condition info |
| Price | Usually free | $75 – $600 |
| Length of Time | 30 minutes – 1 hour | 1 – 2 hours |
Here are the differences between roofing estimates and inspections. Knowing the ins and outs of both will help you make sure you get the right service when you call a local roof repair company for help.
Also called a bid or quote, a roofing estimate is a document created for you by a roofing professional that lays out all the information you might need to fix an issue with your roof. Estimates vary in format and length, but should always include the following information:
An outline of who is responsible for overseeing the project and collecting payment
Basic contact information for all parties involved
A project timeline with an estimated start and completion date
Payment terms
Proof of licensing (in some states), liability insurance, and worker’s compensation
Detailed itemized list of costs for labor and materials at every step of the project, including necessary taxes
Information about the underlayment, ventilation, shingles, and flashing to be used
A decking replacement plan, if necessary
Warranties and guarantees for products and work quality
To get the best roofing estimate when shopping around for a qualified contractor, you should gather multiple bids to compare terms, cost estimates, and timelines. You can use the information on each bid to do further research about each company, ensuring that they are legitimate with updated licenses and a history of quality work.
“When you compare bids, ensure that you are comparing apples to apples,” says Ami Feller, Expert Review Board member and owner of Roofer Chicks in New Braunfels, Texas. “Not all contractors are necessarily quoting the same quality of materials, installation, and warranties.”
Professional roofing estimates are usually free, or at least low cost, when done by the company that hopes also to handle the roofing project. When creating an estimate, roofers typically concentrate on just one area rather than evaluating the entire roof. For that reason, estimates take relatively little time to complete compared to a full inspection.
Where roof estimates are essentially a quote for repair work done to a specific issue that you already know about, roof inspections require a professional to go over your roof with a fine-tooth comb to identify any potential problems.
How much is a roof inspection? A roof inspection costs $220 on average, but your total may vary depending on the size and style of your roof and the type of inspection you are having done. You will receive a basic report after your inspection that breaks down the fees for the inspection itself, any expert labor, and a certification letter, if applicable. Roof inspectors typically offer the following options:
Physical roof inspection, $75–$200: A traditional inspection involves checking your roof and interior for holes and visible damage. Good for flat, easily accessible roofs.
Drone roof inspection, $150–$600: A drone operator can pilot a drone to check your roof’s exterior and take photos for you, your contractor, or your insurance company.
Infrared roof inspection, $400–$600: A drone with infrared technology can photograph unbalanced heat and moisture levels in your roof to help detect serious issues before they cause significant structural damage.
To save money, check your insurance policy before hiring a local roof inspector to see if it covers the cost of a roof inspection. Some roof contractors may also offer basic free inspections before writing up a repair estimate, though these are typically not extensive enough to meet the requirements of lending or insurance companies.
Request a roof estimate if you know for sure what the problem is with your roof. A roofing estimate is usually a free or low-priced evaluation of one problem area of your home’s roof. So, if you have a leak and you already saw that you are missing shingles, a roof estimate is the right choice.
The biggest pro of a roofing estimate, when compared to a roofing inspection, is usually the cost. Roofers will usually offer free roofing estimates. If they do not, you can try to negotiate the price.
Timeline is another pro of an estimate versus an inspection. That is because, with an estimate, the roofers typically concentrate on just one area rather than evaluating the entire roof itself, so it takes much less time.
While you can often get free roofing estimates, the range of those estimates can be vast. Different roofing companies have different numbers of staff. The equipment available to the roofers you have contacted will also impact the number on the final estimate. If a company has all of the latest equipment, that can also impact pricing.
“Also materials used and warranties affect the pricing,” says Feller. “Many people think all roofs are the same, and that couldn't be further from the truth.”
You should get a roof inspection at least once a year. This will help you stay on top of any potential repairs, which can save a ton of money in the long run. For example, a roof inspection each summer ensures that you will not have any unexpected surprises, such as roof leaks, when the rainy or snowy season hits.
In addition to your annual inspection, you should call in a professional after extreme weather events. In particular, high winds and hail can wreak havoc on your shingles.
You will also need an inspection when you know there is a problem, like a roof leak, but do not know where it’s coming from. An inspector can help you figure out the root cause and advise on whether you need repairs or a replacement.
Another advisable time to call in an inspector is when you are filing an insurance claim. Although your insurance company will call out one of their own inspectors to your home, this is an opportunity for you to get a second opinion.
Roof inspections are comprehensive; they get into your roof’s anatomy and identify any problems it may have. This all sounds great, but how much is a roof inspection? Unlike estimates, which you can often get for free, you are not likely to find offers for free roofing inspections. Fortunately, they are not too costly, with the average roof inspection price coming in around $220.
This full analysis can give you excellent guidance on which parts of your roof need work first. Knowing the results of an inspection can help you save on roof replacement costs because you may only need repairs, rather than a full replacement.
Suppose you already know what work your roof needs. In that case, you may end up paying for an unnecessary inspection. Another downside of roof inspections is that you may find the work you have to do is much more intensive than you initially realized—but try to view that as a chance to deal with a problem before it gets much bigger.
You know you need help with your roof, but which one do you need—a roof inspection or a roof estimate? Here is how to know.
Here are some situations when you need a roof inspection rather than an estimate:
Annual roof checkup for preventative maintenance
After a severe weather event to check for damage
When buying a home
When you have a roof leak
During the process of buying homeowner’s insurance
During your insurance claim
These are the times you need to call a pro for a roof estimate:
You know what roof damage you have and need an estimate for repairs.
An inspector told you that you need repairs or a new roof.
You are ready to get a roof replacement because the old one is past its life span.
When it comes to choosing the right one for you, it really depends on your roof’s specific issue. If your roof has obvious problems or damage, it is best to skip the inspection and instead start requesting roof estimates as soon as possible. Roof estimates are a way of assessing the cost of repairs to a specific, known problem on your roof and starting the work process. If, however, you are looking into how to get insurance to pay for your roof replacement, calling in your own roof inspector before your insurance company does is a great way to cover all of your bases.
Roof inspections are necessary when you are unsure of what is going on with your roof and you need more information about the problem with your roof and how to fix it. Roof inspections are also very common for real estate transactions. Most home inspectors are generalists, and many recommend having the roof inspected by a qualified roofing contractor.
