A good roof inspection answers three questions: Is the roof keeping water out today? How much life does it have left? What will it cost to fix what's wrong? We answer all three with photos, not guesses.
What we check
- Roof covering: cracked, slipped or missing tiles; curling or bald shingles; loose metal panels and fasteners.
- Flashing at walls, valleys, chimneys, skylights and pipe penetrations, which are the most common leak points.
- Underlayment condition where we can see it, especially on older tile roofs.
- Attic: water stains, daylight, damp insulation and ventilation.
- Decking: soft spots or signs of rot.
- Drainage on flat sections: ponding, clogged drains and scuppers.
When to get an inspection
- Before buying or selling a home.
- After a hurricane or strong storm, even if you don't see damage.
- When your insurance company asks about your roof's age or condition.
- Before hurricane season, especially for roofs older than 15 years.
- When you notice a stain, a drip or granules in the gutters.
Wind mitigation: how your roof affects your insurance
Florida insurers are required to offer discounts for features that reduce wind damage. A licensed inspector documents those features on the state's wind mitigation form (OIR-B1-1802). Several of the biggest items are part of the roof:
- Roof covering that meets current code.
- Roof deck attachment: the nail size and spacing holding the plywood down.
- Roof-to-wall attachment: clips or straps instead of toe-nails.
- Secondary water resistance: a sealed roof deck.
- Roof shape: hip roofs generally rate better than gable roofs.
When we replace a roof, we re-nail the deck to current code and can install secondary water resistance. After the job, ask your insurance agent about a new wind mitigation inspection so the upgrades show up on your policy. The inspection itself must be done by a qualified inspector as listed on the form.
Roof Inspections FAQ
How long does a roof inspection take?
Most homes take about an hour, depending on roof size, pitch and attic access.
Will you tell me if I don't need a new roof?
Yes. If a repair will buy you real time, we'll say so and show you the photos.
Do you complete the wind mitigation form?
The OIR-B1-1802 form must be signed by a qualified inspector as listed on the form. We make sure the roof work is done to the standards that earn credits and can point you to an inspector.
Where we offer roof inspections
Miami-Dade County · Aventura · Coral Gables · Pinecrest · Palmetto Bay · Cutler Bay · Hollywood · Pembroke Pines · Miramar · Weston · Davie · Southwest Ranches · Pompano Beach · Port St. Lucie · and every city in Miami-Dade and Broward