5 Questions to Ask About a Roof Inspection

An annual roof inspection is an essential part of home maintenance. Even if you’ve had inspections before, it’s still important to prepare before your roofing contractor visits your house each year. To help, we’ve compiled the following roof inspection questions that a pro might ask.

1. Do you have any known roof issues? 

During their visit, your contractor will run through a comprehensive roofing inspection checklist—but if you’re aware of any problems with your roof, let them know in advance. Giving your roofing pro a heads-up provides important context about your roof’s overall condition and will help them locate any known issues quickly.

2. What kind of roofing material do you have?

Certain roofing materials are more difficult—and pricier—to inspect than others, so your contractor will need to know which kind you have before providing an inspection quote. For example, slate roofs are heavier, slipperier, and harder to work with than asphalt shingles. As a result, inspecting a slate roof costs more than a traditional asphalt shingle roof.

3. When was your roof last inspected, repaired, or replaced?

It’s best to schedule a professional roof inspection every year. If you have mature trees that hang over your roof, you should also visually inspect your roof a couple of times per year. If it’s been a few years (or longer) since your last inspection, mention that to your contractor. 

It’s also a good idea to tell your roofing pro when your roof was last repaired or replaced. Before your roofer arrives, gather any relevant documents—for example, information about your most recent roof inspection or repair job.

4. How accessible is your roof?

If your roof is relatively flat and easy to access, your contractor will likely climb onto it to perform a standard roof inspection, also known as a physical inspection. On average, this type of roof inspection costs $75 to $200. 

However, if you have an unstable or high-pitched roof that isn’t safe to walk on, you might need a drone inspection. That’s generally more expensive than a physical inspection, running between $150 and $400. 

Alternatively, your roofing pro could suggest an infrared inspection. This inspection uses a drone equipped with infrared technology to detect cracks, leaks, and other roofing issues that aren’t noticeable to the naked eye. It usually costs $400 to $600.

5. Are you planning any home renovations or upgrades?

It’s important to inform your roofing contractor if you plan to renovate or upgrade your roof. 

For example, let’s say you’re thinking about installing solar panels. During your inspection, you’ll want to confirm that your existing roof can support the extra weight. Also, keep in mind that solar panels typically last between 25 and 35 years—so if your roof is already nearing the end of its life, your pro might recommend replacing the roof before installing solar.