A Home Inspector Report May Show The Need For Roof Repairs

Leaks may not be visable on the ceilings of rooms, explaining why a home inspector will usually check the attic for evidence of roof leaks. Common areas for leaks are areas around flashings such as skylights, chimneys, and vent pipes. A home inspector may look at these areas to see if they are properly sealed with a black mastic compound. The mastic deteriorates over time and leaks can result.

The home inspector will often look for loose flashing's, particularly at the chimney and roof-to-wall connection.

The home inspector will also probably look to see if the roof sagging between the rafters or trusses...and to see if the roof ridge (peak) is sagging in any way, or whether it is straight and level.

Any signs of deterioration of asphalt shingles would normally be noted on a home inspection report. Deterioration of the shingles could include warping, broken edges, rounded corners or slits becoming wider than would normally be expected. The report might also note if there any visible roof vents.

The home inspector might also report if the wooden roof deck appear rotten or delaminated under the last row of shingles.