When you’re in the market for a new home, you are probably busy planning a budget, sorting out your finances and loans, and searching for the right home just for you and your family. You also are going to want to figure out your home inspection to ensure your home is in sound shape, especially the roof. But how do you go about finding the right roof inspection service? We’ll help you.
Why Should I Get My New Home’s Roof Inspected?
When you purchase a home, you are going to need to get a full home inspection. The home inspectors will look at all aspects of your home for damage and integrity. The inspection will cover your HVAC systems, plumbing, attic, foundation, roof, and every other part of your home. They will look for water damage, cracks in the foundation, plumbing problems, a damaged or old roof, any old or existing insect infestations, etc.
While the home inspection does cover your Roof, it may not be as comprehensive for that specific area, and some things can be missed. Or, it will be reviewed enough to pass the inspection, with recommendations made but not required.
You will want to get your roof inspected by a professional roof inspection service so that you can get a fully comprehensive, very detailed inspection of your roof specifically. Without a solid roof, everything from your heating and cooling to your foundation will be affected. A new roof and new siding are two of the most costly updates you can do to your home, but also the best investments. If you are investing in a new home, you want to make sure that you aren’t going to face costly construction projects immediately after move-in.
What to Look for in a Roof Inspection Service.
Roof inspections will include both an interior and exterior inspection. With an interior inspection, the roofing inspector will go into your attic and check for air sealing, mold or mildew, and other signs of water damage. They should then do an exterior examination where they get up on the roof and check the condition of your shingles or roofing materials as well as the flashing and gutters.
An exterior examination can tell you a lot about your Roof’s integrity and quickly spot any cosmetic issues that could become more serious over time. Things like improperly installed gutters and flashing, if caught early enough, can prevent a lot of water damage and interior leaks.
When looking for a roof inspection company, you should look for a few key features they offer such as;
- Free estimates
- Willing to work with your insurance company
- Good reviews (Google, BBB, Angie’s List, etc.)
- They’re local— in your zip code or county
- Fast response time from the roof inspectors
- Offer other services beyond roof inspections
What to do if the Roof Gets a Bad Inspection?
The outcome of your roof inspection can often deter you from continuing with the purchase, but it doesn’t always have to be that way. Several factors can be considered if your roof inspection didn’t go as planned. Depending on the severity of repairs or damage to the existing roof, you can try one of the following:
- Ask the current homeowner to fix the roof before selling.
- Lower your offer to account for roof repairs you will make once you move in.
- Buy the house as-is and negotiate your contract.
- Check to see if any warranties for the roofing materials are transferable.
- Get a second opinion from other local roofing contractors.
- Back out of your purchase—find a house that passes a roof inspection with flying colors.
At Secured Roofing & Restoration, we are well versed in both roof repair and replacement. We know the ins and outs of roofing inspections and how to face an unexpected project for your roof. If you are a new home buyer and you are dealing with some immediate roof repairs, or even want advice on whether or not you should go through with the purchase, give us a call at (407)-986-ROOF—we are here to help!
