Roof Inspection Checklist: How to Identify Problems Before You Call a Roofer

sam86878
May 20
3 min read

Inspecting your roof yourself can save you time and money by catching minor issues before they become major repairs. Follow this step-by-step checklist to conduct a safe, thorough DIY roof inspection—and know exactly what to report when you do reach out to local roofers near you.

1. Safety First: Gear & Precautions

Stable Ladder & Helper Always work with a second person to steady your ladder and call for help if needed.
Non-Slip Footwear & Gloves Wear sturdy shoes with good traction and durable gloves to protect your hands.
Harness or Roof Anchor (Optional but Recommended)For steep or high roofs, use a safety harness or anchor point.
Weather Check Inspect on a clear, dry day—wet shingles are slippery, and high winds can be dangerous.

Red house with gray roof and stone chimney, ladder propped against chimney. Green bushes in foreground, cloudy sky in background.

2. Exterior Inspection: Surface & Flashing

Shingle Condition
- Look for cracked, curling, or missing shingles.
- Check for bald spots where granules have worn off.
Flashing & Seals
- Examine metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for gaps or rust.
- Ensure seals and roof cement aren’t cracked or peeling.
Gutters & Downspouts
- Clear debris so water can flow freely.
- Inspect the fascia board above gutters for rot or water stains.
Roof Penetrations
- Check vent pipes and attic vents for cracked collars or displacement.
- Verify that snow guards (if installed) are secure.

3. Interior & Attic Check: Signs from Below

Water Stains & Mold Look for dark streaks or fuzzy mold growth on rafters and ceiling joists.
Daylight Seepage If you see pinpoints of light through the roof decking, you have gaps.
Insulation Condition Wet or clumped insulation indicates active leaks.
Ventilation Assessment Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup—ensure soffit and ridge vents are unobstructed.

Damaged roof of a white house with missing shingles under clear blue sky, showing signs of disrepair. Bushes partially visible below.

4. Common Warning Signs to Note

Granule Accumulation Granules in gutters mean shingles are nearing end-of-life.
Sagging Deck A soft or drooping area suggests structural decay that needs immediate attention.
Algae, Moss, or Lichen Biological growth retains moisture against shingles, accelerating deterioration.
Rust Spots Check for rust on metal roofing panels—it can lead to holes over time.

5. Documenting Your Findings

Photograph Everything Snap clear, close-up photos of damage, noting the date and location on the roof.
Create a Simple Diagram Sketch your roof’s layout and mark problem areas (e.g., “north-facing slope, 3rd shingle row”).
Estimate Severity Rate issues on a scale (e.g., 1 = cosmetic, 3 = urgent). This helps roofers prioritize repairs.

6. When to Call Professional Roofers Near You

Safety Concerns: If you can’t safely access parts of your roof.
Structural Damage: Sagging, large leaks, or pervasive rot.
Complex Systems: Multi-layered roofing, intricate flashing, or unusual materials (e.g., slate).
Time & Warranty: If your roof is under warranty or you’d rather leverage a pro’s speed and equipment.

A detailed DIY inspection report ensures your local contractor—whether you search for “roofers near me” or “roofing contractors in my area”—can give you a precise quote and schedule only the work you truly need.