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Roof inspection in Minneapolis, MN

Roof inspection in Minneapolis, before problems cost more

Know the real condition of your roof before you buy, sell, file a claim or wait out another winter. Findings are explained in plain words.

  • Roof, attic and flashing checked
  • Photos and a written summary
  • Clear next steps, no pressure

Step 1 of 3

What do you need?

What does a roof inspection include?

A proper roof inspection looks at the whole roof system, not only the shingles. The roof surface is checked from the edge of the roof, from a ladder or on the roof itself when it is safe. The attic is checked from below.

A thorough visit covers:

  • Roof surface: shingle condition, granule loss, cracks, curling, lifted tabs and hail marks
  • Flashing: chimneys, valleys, skylights, walls and pipe boots
  • Eaves and edges: drip edge, gutters and signs of ice dam trouble
  • Ventilation: intake and exhaust, and whether the attic is dry or has frost marks and stains
  • Attic: deck condition, insulation, moisture, rusted nails and daylight
  • Ceilings below: stains that point to past or present leaks

Good inspectors take photos and tell you what they could not see. If much of the roof is covered in snow, that limits what can be checked, and you should expect a plain statement of that.

When should you get a roof inspection?

Many homeowners wait for a leak. Waiting costs more than looking. Sensible times for an inspection include:

  • Before buying a house. A roof is one of the costliest parts of a home, and the age of the shingles does not tell the whole story.
  • Before selling. Knowing what a buyer's inspector may find lets you fix small items first or price the house with the facts.
  • After hail or a heavy windstorm. Damage can be there without a leak.
  • After a hard winter. Ice dams and heavy snow leave marks you can fix in spring.
  • When an insurer asks. Some insurers ask for a report on an older roof.
  • When the roof is getting old. A check every few years shows how fast it is changing.

If the inspection shows a small problem, a roof repair may solve it. If it shows widespread wear, you can plan for roof replacement on your own schedule.

What will a roof inspection report tell you?

A useful report is short, clear and backed by photos. It should tell you what condition the roof is in, what problems exist, how urgent each one is and what the options are. It should separate repairs that matter now from items that can wait.

It cannot tell you exactly how many years are left. No one can, because weather, ventilation and workmanship all play a part. A good report gives a reasoned estimate and says so honestly.

Some buyers, lenders or insurers ask for a written roof report or a statement of the roof's condition. What format they want, and whether a roofer's report counts as a formal certification, depends on who is asking. Ask them what they need before the inspection, so that the report can be written to match. If storm damage is part of the picture, see storm and hail damage.

Inspection fees are usually much smaller than a repair, but they do vary. The main factors are:

  • Roof size and complexity. A simple gable is quicker than a roof with many valleys and dormers.
  • Access. Steep pitches, tall houses and tight lots take longer.
  • Attic access. A clear attic hatch makes the work easier.
  • Report type. A verbal summary, a photo report and a formal document for a lender or insurer take different amounts of work.
  • Purpose. A pre-purchase check, a storm check and a routine check look at slightly different things.

Ask what the fee covers, whether a written report with photos is included and whether any credit applies if you go ahead with repairs. Be wary of free inspections that come with a sales push. Your protection is a written scope and a report you can take to another contractor for a second opinion.

How long does it take and what happens on the day?

Many inspections are a short visit, though a large or complex roof, or one with a tight attic, takes longer. Treat it as a general guide. Weather matters too. A wet, icy or snow-covered roof is not safe to walk, and the inspector may need to return when conditions improve.

On the day, you can help by:

  • Making sure the attic hatch is reachable
  • Telling the inspector about past leaks, repairs and stains you have seen
  • Sharing any records of earlier roof work
  • Keeping pets inside and out of the way

You do not have to be on site the whole time, but it helps to speak with the inspector at the end. Ask to see the photos and to have each finding explained. If something needs work, ask for the priorities in writing. To start, use the form on the home page and mention why you want the inspection.

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Step 1 of 3

What do you need?

Questions about roofing in Minneapolis

How often should a roof be inspected in Minneapolis?

A common rule is a check every few years for a healthy roof, and once a year for an older one. You should also have it checked after hail, a major windstorm or a hard winter with ice dams. Spring is a good time because winter damage shows by then.

Can a roof be inspected when there is snow on it?

Only partly. Snow hides shingles and flashing, and it makes the roof unsafe to walk. An inspector can still check the attic, the ceilings, the eaves and any visible areas, but a full roof surface inspection may have to wait until the snow is gone. Be wary of anyone who gives a full verdict on a buried roof.

Do I need a roof inspection when buying a house?

It is a good idea. A general home inspection looks at the roof, but a roofer can look closer at the shingles, flashing and attic. Findings can help you negotiate, plan repairs or budget for a new roof. Ask the seller for any records of roof work as well.

Does a roof inspection cover hail damage for insurance?

An inspection can document hail damage with photos and notes, and that record can support a claim. The insurer's adjuster still decides what is covered. If you are unsure whether damage is from a storm or from age, an inspection helps sort that out before you file.

Will an inspector tell me I need a new roof?

An honest one tells you what the roof really needs. Sometimes that is nothing, sometimes a small repair and sometimes a replacement. Ask for photos and for the reasons behind each recommendation, so you can judge for yourself or get a second opinion.

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How it works

1

Call or request a quote

Tell us what is happening with the roof.

2

Free inspection

A roofer checks the roof and gives a written price.

3

Work done right

Clean crew, nail sweep, warranty in writing.