Roof Inspection Overview

The roof is one of the most important components of any home or commercial property. As the first line of defense against the elements, roofs help protect the interior of a structure from rain, tree branches, snow, and various other natural forces.

Roofs are also vital in the regulation of temperature throughout the year. When professionally installed, insulated, and maintained, a roof can have a significant impact on reducing annual energy bills, keeping things cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

There are several different types of roofs and roof covering materials found throughout the Southwest. Pitched roofs made from composite shingles, ceramic tiles, or metal are especially common in Texas and more major metropolitan areas.

In New Mexico and other areas with more arid climates, however, it is quite common to see flat roofs made from clay, gravel/tar, TPO, or various other rubber-based materials. This is especially true of pueblo-style homes found closer to the desert.

Roof Inspection Process

Per the InterNACHI® Standards of Practice, an inspection of a roof is to be performed from the ground level unless there is a functional rooftop access door. During the inspection, your inspector will identify, observe, and examine the following aspects of a roof and identify potential repairs: