How Much Does a Roof Inspection Cost?

During operation, the roof is subject to wear and tear more than other building elements. It is affected by temperature changes, rain, snow, and wind, which inevitably leads to corrosion and leaks. 

To make sure that the roof is in satisfactory condition or to take the necessary measures and repair the roof in time, you need to conduct a professional inspection and examination. This way, you will get information about the roof defects and will be able to estimate how much the repair work will cost.

In this article, we will consider how much is a roof inspection and the factors that affect the final price. At Plum ProExteriors, this procedure is free, but you should have this information to understand the market better. Let’s start!

Why roof inspections are essential

The roof of any building should last at least twenty years. In good condition and with proper repair – from forty to fifty years. The exception is regions with poor climatic conditions and heavy snowfalls.

How long the roof will last depends on how quickly you can notice and fix problems. This is why a timely inspection is needed.

It is crucial to detect roof damage in time and repair the damage. Thus, you will avoid large financial expenses for repairs in the future. If this is not done quickly, the roof’s outer layer will begin to deteriorate. After some time – the inner one. A roof malfunction will lead to leaks and significant heat loss in the house. The supporting structures (rafters) may also begin to collapse, which will require expensive repairs. 

That’s why it’s so essential not to skimp on roof inspection. We’ll talk about the amounts we can talk about later.

Factors affecting roof inspections costs

The price of a roof inspection can differ depending on the size of the roof, the material, and the type of inspection. Understanding the key factors will help you as a homeowner understand the approximate roof inspections costs and plan for repairs.

Roof size and accessibility

The size and accessibility of the roof are the key factors that affect the overall cost of the inspection. Larger roofs take longer to inspect, which increases the cost. If the roof is difficult to access due to steep slopes, height, or other complex features (for example, it may be a historic architectural project), the cost may increase. 

In these cases, inspectors may need specialized equipment such as ladders, scaffolding, or drones. The need to use additional equipment also enhances the overall price of the inspection process.

Type of roof material

The material of the roof can impact the cost for roof inspection. For example, some materials, such as slate, EPDM, or metal, may require more careful handling and specialized equipment and knowledge to assess properly. As a result of this, you may encounter higher inspection costs.

Slate roofs are more fragile and more challenging to walk on, requiring a more cautious inspection approach. Roofs with more intricate materials or finishes may also demand more time to inspect quality.

On the other hand, standard roof materials like asphalt shingles might not require as much care during the inspection. In this case, the inspection price will be lower. 

Type of inspection

Be prepared that the price of a roof evaluation can vary significantly depending on the inspection method. Traditional physical inspection methods, where an inspector walks around the roof and inspects its components, are usually cheaper or free all, like at Plum ProExteriors. 

 

Sometimes, homeowners choose more advanced inspection methods, such as infrared scanning or modern drone inspections. Such methods are especially good for large or hard-to-reach roofs. These high-tech methods can provide more detailed information, such as roof leak inspection or thermal issues. But expect additional costs.

Location and regional price differences

The roofing inspection cost can also differ depending on the geographical location of your building. In areas with higher costs of living, like large metropolitan cities, inspection fees are more expensive. 

Additionally, roofing inspectors may charge more if they have to travel long distances to reach your property. Local market demand for roof inspections can also affect pricing—regions that experience harsh weather conditions or frequent roofing issues may have higher rates due to the increased demand for professional inspections.

Additional services and repairs

In certain cases, roof inspectors may offer additional services. These services may include providing estimates for repairs, cleaning gutters, or performing minor fixes during the inspection. Yes, these services can be helpful, but they often come at an extra cost. If the inspector discovers major issues that require immediate attention, they might provide a repair estimate that adds further expenses to the general inspection prices.

In some instances, specialists who conduct might also offer follow-up services, such as re-inspection after repairs are made or regular maintenance inspections. While these services add value, they will also enhance the total roof inspector cost.

Types of roof inspections

When it comes to roof inspections, there are several different methods, more regular and pro, for assessing the condition of a roof. Each of these approaches offers different levels of detail and uses different tools or technology.

Professional roofing inspectors typically conduct these assessments with the help of specialized equipment to ensure a thorough roof assessment.

Basic visual inspection

This method of roof inspection is the simplest and most popular. Also called the physical method. What does this method involve? In this process, the inspector visually inspects the roof from the ground or directly climbs onto the roof surface. The goal is to discover any obvious signs of damage. Experienced roofers can quickly identify issues such as missing or damaged shingles, loose flashing, cracked tiles, or other visible defects.

Sometimes, experts may also inspect the interior of the house. This way, they can look for signs of leaks, water stains, or damage to walls or ceilings. In this case, repair work must be undertaken more quickly.

While the basic type of inspection is cost-effective and sometimes free and provides a general overview of the roof’s condition, it may not reveal hidden problems, such as leaks under shingles or moisture buildup in hard-to-reach areas. However, choosing this method is a good option for homeowners looking for a quick, affordable estimate.

Comprehensive or detailed inspection

This is also a physical but extra thorough type of roof assessment. This inspection involves reviewing all aspects of the roof, including its structural integrity, the condition of the material, drainage systems, and any vulnerabilities.

In addition to inspecting the roof surface, the inspector can apply specialized tools to find different hidden problems such as mold, rot, or moisture intrusion. This type of inspection often includes a more extensive assessment of the overall lifespan of the roof, its performance, and any immediate repair needs.

Drone and aerial inspection

Sometimes, it is difficult to access large roofs. And they need to be examined in detail. For this, drones are used. This is a modern popular solution. Drones with high-definition cameras can fly over the roof and take detailed photos and videos. The customer receives such photos and videos with a bird’s eye view without the need for ladders or scaffolding.

This type of roof inspection is particularly suitable for roofs with steep, high, or fragile slopes. Physical access to such roofs would be dangerous and impractical. Importantly, drones can also reach hard-to-inspect areas, such as ridge lines and peaks, allowing for a complete picture of the roof’s condition. Keep in mind that the drone roof inspection cost is higher than visual inspections, but it provides a higher level of detail and is often quicker.

Thermal or infrared inspection

An infrared or thermal inspection is the most advanced method for identifying roof problems that are nearly impossible to see with the naked eye. Using advanced infrared technology, an inspector can detect temperature differences across the roof surface, revealing hidden problems such as leaks or moisture trapped under roofing materials.

This method is especially effective for identifying water damage that has not yet caused visible deterioration or for finding areas where insulation is missing or has failed. The infrared camera detects heat patterns, highlighting cooler areas where moisture has infiltrated. This helps to conduct a roof leak inspection or identify vulnerable spots more easily.

The infrared roof inspection cost will be higher than the basic options, but this method offers a more in-depth look at the roof’s condition.

How frequently should you have your roof inspected?

Most often, you have to inspect the roof after noticeable defects have appeared. These are serious leaks, swelling or subsidence of the roofing, damage to the roofing cake, mold, and dampness. More prudent homeowners use this service periodically for preventive purposes. 

Sometimes, the roof is inspected for the redevelopment of the building. As part of such an event, a comprehensive project for the redevelopment of the house is created, and following it, the necessary work is carried out.

The roof inspection procedure is mandatory for drawing up an act on the technical condition of the building elements. The document is issued if the building needs to be repaired.

A regular expert inspection of the roof will identify the causes of leaks, damp spots, corrosion, and other defects in the roofing. If the damage is visually noticeable, you should not examine the roof yourself. It is better to contact a specialized company that has the necessary equipment. 

Some defects, for example, can be detected by scanning the surface in the infrared range. Such an assessment allows you to localize the damage as much as possible, both to the roof as a whole and to the rafters and insulation layers. The specialist will see an objective picture of the defects in the roof structure and determine the degree of its danger. These conclusions affect the urgency, cost, and scope of repairs.

We recommend periodically inspecting the roof 1-2 times a year. The procedure will increase the service life of the entire roofing.

DIY vs. professional roof inspections

So, you’re wondering whether to do a roof inspection yourself or turn to a professional. Sure, a DIY inspection can save you money, but if you want more accurate results and, most importantly, do not get hurt while inspecting your roof, it’s best to call in the experts.

First, climbing on a roof yourself is dangerous without the special equipment and relevant experience. Second, you may not notice some problems, also due to lack of experience.

Hiring a professional roofing company has many advantages:

• Trained inspectors can spot both visible and hidden problems, including structural damage or leaks that aren’t obvious to homeowners. 
• Teams of professionals use appropriate tools, like drones and infrared cameras, to spot problems that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
• Roofing experts have the proper equipment and experience to navigate steep or high roofs safely.
• Professionals will give you detailed reports with repair or maintenance recommendations so that you will receive a clearer picture of the roof’s condition.

If you need quality expert roofing services for commercial roofs, residential, or any other type, we at Plum ProExteriors are happy to help. 

Tips to save on roof inspector cost

Are there ways to reduce the cost of a roof inspection a little? Yes, and we won’t hold them back. Here are some tips for you to make sure the price isn’t so high:

• Obtain multiple estimates: It is better to request quotes from different inspection companies to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Prices can vary depending on factors like roof size and inspector experience. Costs from experienced companies may be slightly higher, but here, you are already making a choice in favor of price or quality.
• Book in the off-season: Roofing services tend to be in higher demand during peak seasons (spring and fall). If possible, schedule your inspection during the slower months (late fall or winter) when prices may be lower.
• Bundle services: Some roofing contractors offer discounts if you schedule an inspection along with other services, such as minor repairs or roof maintenance.
• Pick a basic inspection: If you’re on a tight budget, opt for a simple visual inspection instead of more advanced methods, such as drone-based inspections. Because the drone roof survey price is significantly higher. By the way, at Plum ProExteriors, our roof inspection services are free. 
• Schedule regular inspections: Regular roof checkups can help catch minor issues before they become expensive, ultimately saving you money on major repairs.

Use these tips to reduce the roof inspection price. If you are looking for a reliable roofing services company that will provide you with a quality inspection for free, contact Plum ProExteriors.

Questions to ask when hiring a roof inspector

When hiring a roof inspection company, it is essential to ask the appropriate questions to understand how much is roof inspection and whether the price is reasonable or not. The answers will help you know you have chosen a reputable and qualified professional. Below, we listed several important questions to consider:

• What is your experience with this type of roof? 
• Is your agency insured and licensed? 
• What does your inspection cover? 
• Can you offer a sample inspection report? 
• What is the total price of the roof inspection? 

Asking these questions ensures you hire a qualified professional who can deliver a thorough, reliable inspection. 

Turn to Plum ProExteriors for quality roof inspection services

At Plum ProExteriors, we offer top roofing services for different needs, including roof replacement, roof inspection, roof installation, and more.

We have an extensive portfolio of successful roofing projects and are always ready to help you. We serve a 30-mile radius of our central location in Southborough, MA. So if you are within this radius, we are waiting for your request.

Now, let’s talk about how our process of inspecting your roof goes.

Our firm carries out research procedures in a regulated manner:

• The documentation on the roof is studied to determine its technical compliance with the project.
• The roof is carefully examined and measured.
• The condition of the fences is examined.
• The attic spaces are studied.
• The condition of the ceilings and walls is analyzed for leaks if the inspection and examination of the roof is carried out at the site without the presence of a technical floor.

At the final stage of the work, a conclusion is formed, which displays data on the technical condition of the roof. Along with the report, there is a defect list, including information on the identified deformations and displacements of the roof. In addition, our specialists advise eliminating defects found and provide acceptable calculations for roof loads.

The entire roof inspection process does not take too much time, but it will save you from further expenses and the hassle of replacing the roof.

Conclusion

In modern conditions, identifying and eliminating leaks and roof defects has become easier, thanks to new methods and technologies. We hope this article on how much is a roof inspection helped you to get a clear picture of potential expenses. On average, the price varies between $100 and $500, depending on the type of inspection. But at Plum ProExteriors, we will provide you with a roof estimate for free.

We know how important it is not to ignore even minor signs of leaks, as timely measures can prevent serious damage to the roof and structure of the building. If necessary, contact us, and our team will help you ensure high-quality correction of the problem and long-term roof protection.

FAQ

1. How much does roof inspection cost in the US?

A roof inspection typically costs $100 to $500. The price can be calculated based on factors such as roof size, roof material, and the home’s location. At Plum ProExteriors, we will provide an estimate for free.

      2. How much does it cost to check a roof?

If you are looking for how much does a roof inspection cost, fees can vary between $100 and $400. The drone roof inspections cost will be higher than the basic options. Some companies like Plum ProExteriors can check your roof for free.

      3. Why do a roof inspection?

Regular roof inspection is essential to detect or prevent leaks, wear, or structural damage early and extend the life of your roof.

      4. What is inspecting a roof for leaks?

This inspection involves checking for signs of water infiltration, such as mold, stains, or damage to materials. Inspectors may use tools like moisture meters or infrared cameras to detect leaks hidden beneath the surface.