FAQ
How much does a standard professional roof inspection cost?
A standard residential roof inspection generally costs between $150 and $400, depending on the square footage, pitch steepness, and roof accessibility. Advanced diagnostic inspections that incorporate aerial drone imagery or infrared thermal cameras to detect hidden moisture pockets cost between $300 and $600. Many roofing contractors provide complimentary visual checks following major storm events.
How often should I have my roof inspected?
The National Roofing Contractors Association advises scheduling professional inspections twice each year—ideally in the spring and fall. You should also book an inspection immediately following severe weather events involving hail, heavy snow accumulations, or sustained winds exceeding 50 miles per hour.
Can I inspect my roof from a ladder instead of hiring a pro?
You can safely inspect gutter lines and eave edges from a secured ladder while keeping three points of contact. However, climbing onto the roof surface is dangerous and can damage fragile shingles. Professional roofers utilize specialized fall-arrest systems, magnetic seam finders, and moisture meters that provide far deeper analysis than visual ladder checks.
How long do I have to file a storm damage insurance claim?
Most homeowner insurance policies establish a claim window between 12 and 24 months from the precise date of the storm event. Some state insurance regulations and carrier terms limit this filing window to exactly one year. Schedule an inspection promptly after severe weather to avoid missing critical deadlines.
What is the difference between localized leak repair and full replacement?
Localized repairs address isolated damage—such as replacing damaged pipe boot flashing, securing lifted shingles, or resealing a valley—and typically cost between $350 and $1,200. Full roof replacements encompass stripping old materials down to the decking, replacing damaged sheathing, and installing new underlayment and shingles, which averages $10,000 to $15,000 or more.
