So, you need a roof inspection for a roof replacement, roof repair, or just want to check the condition. In some cases, the roofing company requires you to be home for the scheduled appointment.
I understand everyone’s schedule is busy, and it’s hard for some to be home during working hours. But this ensures open communication and gives you peace of mind with a stranger on your property.
That’s why one of the first questions homeowners ask when scheduling a roof inspection is how long it’ll take.
For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners prepare and know what to expect from their upcoming roofing project. That’s why I’ll break down what you need to know about roof inspections:
This article answers the following questions:
- How long does a roof inspection take?
- What does a roofing contractor look at during a roof inspection?
- How much does a roof inspection cost?
How long does a roof inspection take?
Depending on the roof’s size, complexity, and accessibility, a roof inspection usually takes around 1-2 hours to fully complete. If you have an easy up-and-over roof with a walkable pitch, your inspection will be on the shorter side.
(Example of a simpler roof)
On the other hand, an inspection takes longer if you have a two-story home with a steep roof cut up at multiple angles. This is mainly because there’s much more to navigate, and proper safety precautions must be taken.
(Example of a complex roof)
Another factor that determines how long it takes is the reason you’re getting the roof inspection. An inspection for a roof replacement should fit in within 1-2 hours I mentioned above.
A storm damage roof inspection could take longer because they’re documenting the roof and collateral damage around your property. Inspections for roof leaks are a little different because they have to inspect, track, and repair the issue (if it’s not too bad).
Just know that every roofing contractor is different, so it’s hard to say exactly how long a roof inspection takes. However, you’ll find that 1-2 hours is pretty standard.
What does a roofing contractor look at during a roof inspection?
After learning how long a roof inspection takes, you’re ready to learn what a roofing contractor looks at during one. They’ll obviously check the condition of the roof and determine how much life is left, but a roof inspection is much more than that.
Your roofing contractor should check the following things and areas during their roof inspection:
- Your attic’s ventilation system
- Soffit and fascia
- Any visible roof leaks or interior water stains
- How many layers your roof has
- The condition of your roof’s decking
- Roof vents
- Roof flashing
- Drip edge
- The overall condition of the main roofing material (shingles, metal, etc.)
- Chimney
- Roof penetrations (pipes, skylights, etc.) and their flashing
- The gutters and downspouts
But just like the time it takes, the service you’re getting determines if certain things get checked. For example, getting an inspection for a new roof also requires measuring certain things (the roof's pitch, chimney’s base, valley length, etc.) that need to be accounted for when estimating the price.
How much does a roof inspection cost?
A general roof inspection can cost anywhere from $120 to $400, depending on the size, accessibility, and complexity of your roof. However, circumstances usually determine how much it costs, if anything at all.
If it’s for a roof replacement, most roofing companies offer free inspections because there’s a potential for a sale. For roof repairs, some companies charge a service fee to inspect and track the roof leak on top of paying for the repair.
Outside of these services, you’ll find that most maintenance and general roof inspections fit the pricing above. While it looks costly on the surface, most roofing companies offer maintenance programs that include regularly scheduled roof inspections.
These maintenance programs also come with other perks, like discounted repair rates, gutter cleaning, and more. The perks are great, but maintenance also keeps tabs on the condition of your roof, helps avoid costly repairs, and maximizes your roof’s lifespan.
How often should you get your roof inspected?
Now you know how long, what’s looked at, and how much it costs to get your roof inspected. As I said throughout, the service you get usually determines the timeline and cost.
Just know there’s nothing wrong with getting a roof inspection if you don’t necessarily need a service. In fact, regularly scheduled and routine roof inspections are highly recommended.
But how often is routine? And why do you need regular roof inspections in the first place?
Check out How Often Should Your Roof Get Inspected to learn why you should maintain your roof with regularly scheduled inspections.
