When to Inspect Your Roof
Twice per year
Spring (after winter) and fall (before winter)
After severe weather
High winds, hail, heavy snow, or fallen branches
If you notice interior signs
Water stains, musty attic smell, increased energy bills
Before buying/selling
Professional inspection recommended for transactions
Ground-Level Inspection Checklist
Grab binoculars and walk the perimeter of your home. You can spot many problems without leaving the ground.
- ☐Overall roof lines are straight - no sagging or dipping visible
- ☐Shingles lie flat without curling, buckling, or lifting
- ☐No missing shingles or bare spots visible
- ☐Flashing around chimney and vents appears intact
- ☐No visible moss, algae, or dark streaks
- ☐Ridge line is straight with no visible gaps in ridge caps
- ☐Gutters are not sagging or pulling away from the fascia
- ☐No excessive shingle granules visible in gutters or at downspouts
- ☐Fascia and soffit boards show no rot or damage
- ☐No tree branches touching or overhanging the roof
Attic Inspection Checklist
The attic reveals problems invisible from outside. Use a flashlight and inspect during daylight hours. Safety first: walk only on joists or laid boards, not on insulation or drywall.
- ☐No daylight visible through the roof deck (holes or gaps)
- ☐No water stains or dark spots on rafters or decking
- ☐No mold or mildew present on any surface
- ☐Insulation is dry and not compressed or displaced
- ☐Ventilation is working - air flow from soffits to ridge
- ☐No sagging in the roof deck between rafters
- ☐Exhaust vents exit through the roof (not into the attic)
- ☐No pest activity (nests, droppings, chewing damage)
- ☐Flashing penetrations show no rust or deterioration from inside
Proper roof ventilation and attic insulation are critical to roof longevity. The attic inspection reveals whether both are functioning correctly.
On-Roof Inspection Checklist
Safety Warning
Only attempt if your roof pitch is walkable (below 6/12), you have non-slip shoes, the roof is dry, and someone on the ground is aware of your activity.
- ☐Shingles are firmly attached - no lifting when tugged gently
- ☐Granule coverage is even - no bald spots or excessive loss
- ☐No cracked, split, or broken shingles
- ☐Nails are not popping up (nail pops)
- ☐Chimney flashing is tight with no gaps
- ☐Vent pipe boots are flexible and not cracked
- ☐Valley flashing has no rust, holes, or separated seams
- ☐Ridge vent is secure and not lifting
- ☐Roof deck feels solid underfoot - no soft or spongy spots
Gutter & Drainage Check
- Gutters clean and flowing: Water should drain freely through downspouts
- Granule accumulation: Some granules are normal in new shingles. Excessive granules from older roofs indicate deterioration
- Gutter slope correct: Water should not pool in gutters. They should slope toward downspouts
- Downspout extensions: Water should discharge at least 4-6 feet from the foundation
- Drip edge present: The metal drip edge should direct water into the gutter, not behind it
See our gutter installation and sizing guide for proper drainage setup.
Common Problems & What They Mean
| Problem | Severity | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Missing shingles | Moderate | Wind damage or adhesive failure. Repair ASAP |
| Curling shingles | Moderate | Age, heat damage, or poor ventilation |
| Granule loss | Moderate | Normal aging. Accelerated loss means end of life |
| Sagging roof line | Severe | Structural problem. Call a professional immediately |
| Daylight in attic | Severe | Holes in the deck. If light gets in, water gets in |
| Mold in attic | Severe | Moisture from leak or poor ventilation |
| Algae streaks | Minor | Cosmetic. Common in humid climates. Treatable |
| Nail pops | Moderate | Nails backing out. Each is a potential leak point |
Post-Storm Inspection
After a significant storm (high winds, hail, heavy rain), perform an immediate ground-level inspection looking for:
- Shingles or debris in the yard
- Visible damage to ridge caps or flashing
- Fallen tree branches on or near the roof
- New water stains on interior ceilings (check within 24 hours)
- Dents in metal gutters, vents, or flashing (indicates hail)
Document Everything
If you find damage, take photos for insurance. Read our storm damage guide and insurance claims guide for next steps.