Essential Roof Inspection After Contractor Work
After roofer work is completed, inspect the roof surface for proper shingle alignment, check gutters and downspouts for debris, examine flashing around chimneys and vents, verify attic ventilation, and ensure all cleanup is finished. Document everything with photos before making final payment.
Why Post-Roofing Inspections Matter More Than You Think
Your roof replacement or repair represents one of your home's largest investments, yet most homeowners skip the crucial final inspection step. This oversight can cost thousands in future repairs and void warranty protections. A thorough post-work inspection isn't about distrusting your contractor—it's about protecting your investment and ensuring you receive the quality work you paid for. Professional roofers who stand behind their work welcome this inspection process, as it demonstrates their commitment to excellence and helps prevent future misunderstandings. The inspection also creates documentation that proves valuable for insurance claims and warranty issues down the road.
Exterior Roof Inspection Checklist
Start your inspection from the ground level, using binoculars for detailed examination. Never climb on a freshly completed roof.
- Shingle alignment appears straight and uniform across all sections
- No exposed nail heads visible on shingle surfaces
- Drip edges properly installed along eaves and rake edges
- Ridge caps securely fastened with consistent overlap
- Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights properly sealed
- Gutters and downspouts clear of debris and properly aligned
- All old roofing materials completely removed from property
- Landscaping and exterior areas cleaned of nails and debris
What Does Quality Flashing Installation Look Like?
Flashing represents the most critical component of your roofing system, yet it's often where corners get cut. Proper flashing should lie flat against surfaces without gaps, buckling, or visible sealant overflow. Around chimneys, look for step flashing that's woven between each shingle course and counter-flashing that's properly embedded into mortar joints. Vent penetrations should have rubber boot flashing that sits flush against the roof surface without cracks or lifting edges. Valley flashing, if used, should extend at least eight inches up each roof slope and show no signs of oil canning or waviness. Poor flashing installation causes 70% of roof leaks within the first five years, making this inspection element crucial for long-term performance.
How to Inspect Your Attic After Roofing Work
Interior inspection often reveals issues not visible from outside. Visit your attic during daylight hours for the most revealing inspection.
- Look for any light penetrating through the roof deck, which indicates gaps or holes
- Check insulation for displacement or damage from workers walking in the attic
- Examine roof decking for any cracked, damaged, or improperly fastened boards
- Verify ventilation systems are properly connected and not blocked by debris
- Inspect electrical fixtures and wiring for any damage from roofing activities
- Document the overall cleanliness and organization of materials left behind
What Red Flags Should Trigger Immediate Contractor Contact?
Certain issues demand immediate attention before your contractor leaves the jobsite. Exposed nail heads on shingle surfaces indicate improper installation techniques that will lead to leaks within months. Misaligned or crooked shingle courses suggest rushed work that affects both appearance and weather protection. Flashing that appears loose, gaps, or shows excessive sealant use indicates potential leak points that worsen over time. Missing or improperly installed drip edge allows water to penetrate behind gutters and damage fascia boards. Any debris left in gutters or on the roof surface can block drainage and cause ice dam formation. These issues are much easier and less expensive to address immediately rather than waiting until problems develop.
Documentation That Protects Your Investment
Proper documentation serves as your insurance policy for warranty claims and future issues.
- Take wide-angle photos of each roof section showing overall appearance
- Capture close-up images of flashing details around penetrations and transitions
- Document any concerns or defects with detailed photos and written descriptions
- Record the final cleanup condition of your property and landscaping
- Save all material receipts, warranty information, and contractor certifications
- Create a dated file with inspection photos and contractor contact information
Understanding Your Warranty Coverage and Next Steps
Most roofing work includes both material and workmanship warranties with different coverage periods and requirements. Material warranties typically last 20-50 years but require proper installation to remain valid. Workmanship warranties usually cover 1-10 years and depend on following manufacturer specifications exactly. Your post-installation inspection creates the baseline documentation needed to prove warranty-covered defects weren't caused by other factors. Keep detailed records of any punch list items and their resolution, as incomplete initial work can void warranty protections. Understanding these coverage details helps you communicate effectively with your contractor about any issues discovered during inspection.
When to Call in Professional Inspectors
While homeowner inspections catch most obvious issues, certain situations warrant professional inspection services. Complex roof designs with multiple levels, dormers, or unusual materials benefit from expert evaluation. If your initial inspection reveals multiple concerns or if you're uncomfortable with the contractor's responses to your questions, an independent roofing consultant provides objective assessment. Insurance-related work often requires professional inspection to ensure compliance with claim requirements. The cost of professional inspection, typically $300-500, provides valuable peace of mind for major roofing investments exceeding $15,000. Professional inspectors also provide detailed reports that carry more weight in warranty disputes or insurance situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I wait before inspecting completed roof work?
Inspect within 24-48 hours of completion while the contractor is still accessible. This timing allows you to address any concerns before final payment and ensures issues are fresh in everyone's memory for quick resolution.
What should I do if I find problems during my inspection?
Document issues with photos and contact your contractor immediately. Most reputable contractors will return promptly to address legitimate concerns. Avoid making final payment until all issues are resolved to your satisfaction.
Is it normal to find a few nails or debris after roofing work?
While some small debris is common, professional contractors should perform thorough cleanup including magnetic nail sweeps. Excessive debris or nails around your property indicates poor cleanup standards and potential safety hazards.
Should I go on the roof myself to inspect the work?
Never climb on your roof for inspection purposes. Use binoculars from the ground and inspect from inside your attic. Professional roofers have proper safety equipment and insurance coverage that homeowners lack.
What warranty information should I receive after roof work?
You should receive both manufacturer material warranties and contractor workmanship warranties in writing. This documentation should include coverage periods, what's included or excluded, and contact information for warranty service.
How do I know if flashing was installed correctly?
Proper flashing lies flat without gaps, shows no excessive sealant, and integrates properly with surrounding materials. Around chimneys, step flashing should be woven between shingles with counter-flashing embedded in mortar joints.
Find Contractors Your Network Trusts
Finding quality roofers starts with understanding who your trusted connections already recommend. Tools like Linked By Six reveal which local contractors your friends and colleagues have used successfully, giving you confidence before the work even begins. See your network's trusted professionals before you search.
A thorough post-installation inspection protects your roofing investment and ensures you receive the quality work you paid for. By systematically checking exterior work, examining attic conditions, and documenting everything with photos, you create the foundation for warranty protection and contractor accountability. Remember that reputable contractors welcome this inspection process as an opportunity to demonstrate their craftsmanship and address any concerns promptly. The few hours spent on proper inspection can save thousands in future repairs and provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing your roof will protect your home for years to come. Take the time to inspect thoroughly—your investment deserves this level of attention and care.