7 Critical Facts About a Roof Inspection Report and When You Need One

1. What is Roof Inspection Report?

Consider a roof inspection to be your home's physical examination. It's a written assessment that details the state of your roof right now, including the gutters, flashing, shingles, and structural support.

Typical components of a thorough roof inspection report are:

• Wear and tear signs
• Proof of leaks or water damage
• Issues with structure
• Documentation photos (particularly when using drones to assess roofs)
• Recommendations for replacement or repair

These tips assist homeowners in scheduling routine maintenance and averting future expensive surprises.

2. There Are Three Common Types of Roof Inspections

Visual Roof Inspection

This is the old-school way of doing roof inspections The inspector climbs up on the roof and checks it out by eye. It is great if your roof is easy to reach and not too steep.

Drone Roof Inspection

When a roof is too steep, too high, or just not safe to walk on, inspectors often use drones instead. A Drone Roof Inspection lets them take clear pictures from above and spot damage you might miss from the ground. This kind of Roof Inspection is really helpful after a storm or when checking big commercial buildings.

According to the Canadian Construction Association, drones are increasingly being used in the construction industry to enhance inspection safety, improve efficiency, and access hard-to-reach areas.

Insurance Inspection for Roofing

An insurance inspection may be required by your provider—either before issuing a policy or after damage is reported. The inspector will assess whether the roof meets their standards and verify claims made under roof insurance coverage.

3. When Do You Need a Roof Inspection Report?

1. Before Buying or Selling a Home
   A certified roof inspection helps buyers understand what they’re getting into and can support sellers in setting a fair price.
   
   
2. After Severe Weather
   Hail, heavy snow, or high winds can cause hidden damage. A post-storm roof inspection report can catch issues before they get worse.
   
   
3. For Routine Maintenance
   Experts recommend scheduling a roof inspection at least every two years—and annually if your home is older or frequently exposed to severe weather, as outlined in thisCMHC guide on regular maintenance..
   
   
4. When Required by Mortgage or Insurance Providers
   Mortgage lenders or insurance companies may request a formal insurance inspection to validate the condition of your roof before approving financing or issuing a policy.
   
   
5. Before Filing a Roof Insurance Claim
   A proper roof inspection gives you the paperwork you need to support your roof insurance claim. It helps speed things up and lowers the chance of any arguments with your insurance inspection.

4. Here’s What a Roof Inspection Report Usually Includes

A professional roof inspection report is more than just a checklist. It’s a clear, easy-to-read document that shows the current shape of your roof and points out anything that might need fixing. Most reports cover things like:

• The condition of your roofing materials
• How well the flashing is holding up
• The state of your gutters and drainage systems
• Any signs of mold, algae, or leaks
• How old your roof is and how much life it likely has left
• Clear photos—especially from a drone roof inspection
• Suggestions on what to do next, whether it’s repairs, maintenance, or a full roof replacement

If the inspection reveals problems, don’t panic. You can still take control of the situation. Here are the 7 important steps to take if your roof fails a home roof inspection—a guide that walks you through what to do next to protect your home and budget.

This report also becomes a vital tool when discussing repairs with contractors or filing for roof insurance.

5. Roof Inspection Cost Varies—but It's Worth It

If you’re in Canada, a roof inspection usually costs between $150 and $500. The price depends on a few things like:

• How big and complex your roof is
• How easy it is to reach the roof
• Whether it’s a manual check or a drone roof inspection
• Your location and local rates

According to Forbes Home, emergency roof repairs can go as high as $8,000, depending on how bad the damage is. That is why getting a roof inspection early can save you a lot of money later.

Some companies may offer a basic check for free—especially if you plan to hire them for repairs. But before you agree to anything, make sure they’re qualified and have a good reputation.

6. Roof Inspection Reports Help You with Roof Insurance

When collaborating with insurance, your roof inspection report is essential. A well recorded insurance inspection can:

• Assist you in being eligible for roof insurance.
• Provide images and professional advice to back up your claim.
• Demonstrate that the damage did not exist beforehand (essential for policy approval or renewal) 

According to theNational Roof Certification and Inspection Association (NRCIA), maintaining a proper roof inspection record helps homeowners file more successful insurance claims and avoid costly disputes over storm-related damage.

7. Tips for Getting an Accurate Roof Inspection Report

Inspections are not all the same. For the most accurate outcomes:

• Hire certified and licensed experts (verify with the NRCA or RCABC).
• For better views, find out whether they do drone roof inspection.
• Ask for a printed and digital copy of the report.
• Reports should be kept secure, particularly if you want to file a roof insurance claim.

Getting a solid roof inspection could be the difference between your insurance covering the damage—or paying everything out of pocket.

Final Thoughts

Until it's too late, a roof inspection may not seem important. A thorough roof inspection report aids in decision-making whether you're planning to sell your house, filing an insurance claim, or maintaining your investment.

Consult with qualified experts for the best results, inquire about drone roof inspections, and remember to routinely check your roof insurance policy.