Do New Roofs Need to Be Inspected

The installation of a new roof marks a major investment in a home’s protection and value. Homeowners and buyers often ask, whether a new roof requires inspection, what inspectors look for, and how inspections affect warranties and insurance. This article outlines when inspections are recommended, what to expect, typical costs, and how inspections protect long-term performance.

Inspection Type	Typical Timing	Purpose
Post-Installation Walkthrough	Immediately After Completion	Confirm Work Meets Contract And Identify Visible Issues
Manufacturer/Contractor Quality Check	Within 30–90 Days	Document Compliance For Warranty
Independent Inspection	Before Final Payment Or Closing	Unbiased Assessment For Buyer Or Owner
Periodic Maintenance Inspection	Annually Or After Major Storms	Ensure Longevity And Early Problem Detection

Why Inspect A New Roof?

Inspecting a new roof ensures the installation meets building codes, manufacturer specifications, and contract terms. Even new roofs can have installation defects such as improper flashing, inadequate nail patterns, or ventilation errors that reduce lifespan and void warranties.

Inspections also provide documented proof for lenders, insurers, and future buyers. Documentation from an inspection can support warranty claims and protect the homeowner from paying for contractor mistakes later.

When To Schedule Inspections

An inspection is valuable at several points: immediately after installation, before final payment, during warranty formation, and periodically thereafter. A post-installation walkthrough should occur before final payment to address visible issues while the contractor remains responsible.

An independent inspection before a real estate closing or warranty registration gives buyers and owners an unbiased assessment. Annual or storm-triggered inspections help detect developing problems early and preserve warranty coverage.

Who Conducts Roof Inspections

Inspections can be performed by the installing contractor, a manufacturer representative, or an independent licensed roofing inspector. Each option has benefits and limitations. Independent inspectors offer impartial evaluations particularly useful for buyers or when disputes arise.

Contractor inspections are convenient and can expedite corrections but may lack objectivity. Manufacturer inspections ensure compliance with warranty conditions. Choosing a licensed, insured inspector familiar with local codes adds the most protection.

What Inspectors Look For

Inspectors evaluate materials, installation quality, roof structure, and drainage. Key items include shingle alignment, fasteners and nail patterns, flashing around penetrations, ridge vents and soffit ventilation, and proper underlayment. Flashing and ventilation defects are among the most common issues found.

Other checks include flashing seals at chimneys and skylights, ice and water shield placement, drip edge installation, and attic inspections to ensure adequate insulation and ventilation. Attic checks reveal ventilation or moisture issues invisible from the exterior.

Inspection Process And Typical Findings

An inspection usually begins with an exterior walkaround, ladder access for close inspection, and an attic evaluation. Inspectors document findings with photos and a written report. Reports typically classify issues as safety concerns, code violations, or workmanship defects.

Common findings on new roofs include misaligned shingles, missed or over-driven fasteners, incomplete flashing, improper valley treatments, and inadequate ventilation. Many of these issues are repairable if caught early, but timely documentation is critical to require corrective action under contract terms.

Inspection Costs And Timeframe

Costs vary by region, roof size, and inspector credentials. Typical independent inspection fees range from $150 to $500, with comprehensive inspections for large or complex roofs costing more. Some inspectors charge a flat fee while others price per square foot.

Inspections usually take 30 minutes to two hours depending on roof complexity. A detailed written report with photos is typically delivered within a few days, and urgent safety concerns are often communicated immediately.

Warranty, Insurance, And Documentation

Roof warranties include manufacturer warranties for materials and workmanship warranties from the contractor. Inspections help validate warranty eligibility by documenting installation compliance. Manufacturers may require documented inspection or installation checklists for full coverage.

Insurance claims after storm damage also benefit from pre-existing inspection reports. An inspection performed pre-storm or at installation creates a baseline for damage assessment. Keeping inspection reports organized can simplify future claims and transfers of ownership.

DIY Checks Vs Professional Inspections

Homeowners can perform basic checks, such as looking for obvious shingle damage, checking gutters for granule loss, and inspecting attic ventilation for signs of condensation. DIY checks are useful for routine monitoring but cannot substitute a professional assessment.

Professional inspectors have specialized tools and training to detect subtle issues like improper nail depth, underlayment deficiencies, and roof deck problems. Professional documentation carries more weight for warranties, insurance, and resale.

Common Post-Installation Issues To Watch For

Even after a completed job, a few problems may appear: loose or blown-off shingles, water leakage at seams, nail pops, and insufficient sealant around flashings. Early detection and contractor remediation prevent small issues from becoming costly repairs.

Ventilation problems can lead to higher attic temperatures, increased energy bills, and premature shingle aging. Ice dam formation in cold climates is often linked to inadequate insulation or venting. Addressing these conditions soon after installation preserves roof life.

How To Find A Qualified Inspector

Select inspectors with state licensing where required, insurance, and credible references. Look for certifications from organizations such as the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association (NRCIA) or manufacturer-specific training. Check online reviews and request sample reports to evaluate thoroughness.

Interview potential inspectors about experience with the roof type, familiarity with local building codes, and turnaround time for reports. Ask whether the inspector will climb the roof and enter the attic. An inspector who performs both exterior and attic inspections offers the most comprehensive evaluation.

Best Practices For Homeowners And Buyers

Before final payment or a real estate closing, request a walk-through and consider hiring an independent inspector. Retain all documentation including contracts, shingle specifications, and inspection reports. Documenting corrections requested from the contractor ensures issues are resolved promptly.

Register manufacturer warranties and keep proof of inspection and installation for future transfers. Schedule annual inspections or after severe weather events to identify developing issues early. Proactive inspections extend the effective life of the roof and protect the homeowner’s investment.

Legal And Contract Considerations

Contracts should outline inspection expectations, timelines for punch-list completion, and procedures for dispute resolution. Some states require a final inspection by a building official before occupancy or certificate of completion is issued. Understanding contractual inspection clauses helps enforce corrective work when needed.

If defects are found, homeowners should provide written notice and allow the contractor reasonable time to correct issues per the contract. If disputes persist, use documented inspection reports to support claims with arbitration, small claims court, or licensing boards. Thorough documentation strengthens legal positions.

Key Takeaways For Homeowners

New roofs should be inspected to verify proper installation, protect warranties, and document condition for insurance and resale. Inspections should occur immediately after installation and periodically thereafter, with independent inspections recommended before final payment or property closings.

Choosing a licensed, experienced inspector and keeping thorough documentation are critical steps that safeguard the investment and ensure the roof performs as expected. Proactive inspections reduce long-term costs and mitigate risks associated with installation errors.