After a roof inspection, you should receive a written report. But not all reports are created equal. A thorough roof inspection report gives you clear, actionable information about your roof’s condition. Here’s what a quality report should include.
1. Basic Information: The report should note the inspection date, property address, inspector’s name and credentials, and weather conditions at the time of inspection. This provides context and a record for future reference.
2. Roof Overview: A description of the roof type (asphalt shingles, metal, tile), estimated age, pitch, and overall condition. This section gives you a high‑level summary.
3. Detailed Findings: The core of the report. Each issue found should be documented with a description, location, and photograph. Common findings include missing shingles, flashing failures, granule loss, ventilation problems, and moisture intrusion. For a complete list, see common roof problems found during inspections.
4. Photos and Diagrams: Visual documentation is essential. Photos show you exactly what the inspector saw and serve as evidence for insurance claims or real estate negotiations.
5. Recommendations: The report should prioritize recommended actions—immediate repairs, monitoring, or further evaluation. A good inspector will explain the urgency and potential consequences of each issue.
6. Estimated Remaining Life: A professional report often includes an estimate of the roof’s remaining lifespan. This is valuable for budgeting and real estate decisions.
7. Certification/Signature: The inspector should sign and date the report, and include their license number if applicable.
For a reminder of what the inspection itself involves, revisit what is a roof inspection. For help deciding between DIY and professional, see DIY vs. professional roof inspection. And for preparing your home before the inspector arrives, see how to prepare for a roof inspection.