Keeping a roof over your head is more than just a saying—it’s a responsibility. Regular roof inspections are the secret weapon against costly repairs, sneaky leaks, and premature replacements. A 17-point roof inspection is a structured, professional approach that helps ensure your roof performs its job season after season. Below, we’ll walk you through every checkpoint, why it matters, and what pros look for.
Let’s break it down in a clean, digestible format:
| # | Inspection Point | What’s Checked |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exterior Roof Condition | Visual inspection for sagging, aging, or warping |
| 2 | Shingle Condition | Missing, curled, cracked, or loose shingles |
| 3 | Flashing Integrity | Seals around chimneys, skylights, and vents |
| 4 | Roof Valleys | Debris buildup and proper sealing |
| 5 | Ridge Caps | Condition and security of shingles at roof peaks |
| 6 | Soffits & Fascia | Rot, damage, or signs of moisture/pests |
| 7 | Gutters & Downspouts | Clogs, sagging, rust, and water flow |
| 8 | Ventilation System | Proper attic airflow to prevent heat/moisture buildup |
| 9 | Chimney Condition | Masonry cracks, damaged caps, and flashing |
| 10 | Skylights | Cracks, leaks, and seal integrity |
| 11 | Roof Penetrations | Seals around vents, pipes, and HVAC equipment |
| 12 | Attic Inspection | Mold, leaks, insulation, and structural concerns |
| 13 | Moisture or Water Stains | Evidence of leaks on attic walls or ceilings |
| 14 | Roof Decking | Sagging or water-damaged sheathing |
| 15 | Nail Pops / Fastener Issues | Raised nails or loose fasteners under shingles |
| 16 | Storm Damage | Hail, wind, or tree damage (often subtle) |
| 17 | Overall Structural Integrity | General soundness and lifespan of the roof system |
Exterior Roof Condition
The first glance at your roof offers significant clues. Roof inspectors look for visible issues such as uneven surfaces, warping, or sagging. These can be early signs of deeper structural concerns. A roof with an inconsistent profile could mean the underlying support is compromised or the materials are aging unevenly.
Shingle Condition
Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense. Missing, broken, or curled shingles leave your home vulnerable to water infiltration. If granules from shingles are found in gutters, it’s often a sign they’re wearing down, signaling it’s time for repair or replacement.
Flashing Integrity
Flashing is the unsung hero that seals gaps around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Damaged or loose flashing is a common source of leaks. During inspections, pros check if flashing is tightly sealed and free from rust or wear.
Roof Valleys
Roof valleys channel water off your roof. When these areas are clogged with leaves or debris, or improperly sealed, water can pool and eventually seep under shingles. Inspectors ensure valleys are clean and watertight.
Ridge Caps
These sit at the highest point of your roof and are prone to wind damage. Damaged ridge caps can allow moisture to enter your home. Inspectors make sure the caps are firmly attached and not cracked or missing.
Soffits & Fascia
These components guard the edges of your roof. They’re particularly vulnerable to rot, pest intrusion, and water damage. Inspectors look for paint peeling, soft spots, and holes as signs of deterioration.
Gutters & Downspouts
Proper water flow is critical. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water backing up under shingles or pooling near the foundation. Roof inspections assess whether gutters are securely fastened, clean, and sloping correctly.
Ventilation System
Good ventilation prevents moisture buildup in your attic, which could rot framing or ruin insulation. A thorough inspection checks for proper intake and exhaust, ensuring your attic breathes as it should.
Chimney Condition
Chimneys are notorious leak zones. An inspection includes checking the brickwork, mortar joints, cap, and flashing. Cracked masonry or loose flashing can lead to serious water intrusion issues.
Skylights
Skylights brighten up interiors but can become problem areas if their seals fail. Inspectors examine the glass, frame, and surrounding shingles for leaks or cracks.
Roof Penetrations
Any hole in your roof—whether for plumbing, vents, or HVAC—needs proper sealing. The inspection verifies these points are watertight and show no signs of deterioration or improper installation.
Attic Inspection
Inspectors head indoors to look for insulation quality, ventilation, mold, water stains, or even pests. A healthy attic supports roof longevity, and this step bridges interior and exterior evaluations.
Moisture or Water Stains
Visible stains or mold on attic ceilings or walls indicate prior or current leaks. An inspector pinpoints where these are and traces them back to their source, often identifying roof failures not visible from outside.
Roof Decking
Beneath the shingles lies the decking—a critical layer. If it sags or feels spongy when walked on, it could be water-damaged or structurally unsound. A detailed inspection may include lifting shingles to assess this layer.
Nail Pops / Fastener Issues
Nails that have pushed up under shingles create raised spots. These can break the waterproof seal, allowing leaks. Loose or improperly installed fasteners are addressed during the inspection to prevent future problems.
Storm Damage
Even when storms pass with no visible impact, they can still leave behind dents, bruised shingles, or hidden structural wear. Inspectors know where to look to spot signs of hail or wind damage that may not be obvious.
Overall Structural Integrity
The final checkpoint considers the roof as a system. Inspectors assess if the combined elements—decking, shingles, flashing, ventilation—work harmoniously. They’ll estimate remaining life expectancy and recommend any preventive steps.
Summary
A 17-point roof inspection isn’t just a checklist—it’s a proactive approach to preserving your home’s integrity and value. It offers a bird’s-eye view of current conditions and an early-warning system for issues that could become nightmares. From checking the shingles to analyzing structural soundness, this comprehensive process leaves no stone unturned. Regular inspections, ideally once or twice a year, especially after major weather events, will save you money, time, and stress. When it comes to your roof, what you don’t see can hurt you. Stay ahead of the game with consistent, professional oversight.
FAQs
Why is a 17-point roof inspection important?
It ensures every critical aspect of your roof’s performance is checked, helping detect problems early and extend the roof’s lifespan.
How often should I get a roof inspection?
It’s best to inspect your roof twice a year—once in spring and once in fall—plus after any major storm.
Can I perform a roof inspection myself?
While some aspects like checking for visible shingle damage can be done by homeowners, a full inspection should be conducted by a licensed professional.
What happens if problems are found during an inspection?
You’ll receive a report detailing issues and suggested repairs, allowing you to address them before they escalate.
Is roof inspection covered by homeowners insurance?
Not usually, but damage found during the inspection might be, especially if it’s storm-related.
How long does a 17-point inspection take?
Depending on roof size and accessibility, it typically takes 1–2 hours for a detailed evaluation.