DIY Roof Inspection Checklist

Why Regular Roof Inspections Matter

Most roof problems start small and stay cheap only if you catch them early. Use this checklist to inspect the roof, note damage, and decide when to call a roofer.

• Water stains often start with one missed detail
• Small flashing gaps can turn into active leaks
• Clogged gutters can back water under the roof edge
• Storm damage is easier to document right away

A simple rule: Check the roof in spring, in fall, and after major storms.

Safety First

Before You Climb

Do NOT go on your roof if:

• Roof is wet, icy, or covered in debris
• Wind exceeds 15 mph
• You’re uncomfortable with heights
• Roof pitch exceeds 6/12
• You’re working alone

Safety equipment needed:

• Rubber-soled shoes (no flip-flops)
• Safety harness for steep roofs
• Sturdy extension ladder
• Helper on the ground
• Fully charged phone

Alternative: Many items can be inspected from the ground with binoculars or from an attic inspection.

Ground-Level Inspection

What to Look For From the Ground

Roof Surface:

• Missing or curling shingles
• Obvious sagging areas
• Debris accumulation
• Moss or algae growth (dark streaks)
• Visible damage from storms

Gutters and Downspouts:

• Gutters attached securely
• No sagging sections
• Downspouts directing water away from foundation
• Shingle granules in gutters (sign of wear)

Flashings (Use Binoculars):

• Metal around chimneys intact
• Vent pipe boots not cracked
• Valley flashing visible and straight
• No rust or corrosion

Soffits and Fascia:

• Paint not peeling
• No visible rot
• Vent openings clear
• No animal entry points

Attic Inspection

Before Climbing on the Roof, Check Inside

Light and Ventilation:

• No daylight visible through roof boards
• Soffit vents unblocked
• Ridge vents open
• Attic fan working (if equipped)

Signs of Moisture:

• No water stains on rafters or decking
• No mold or mildew smell
• Insulation is dry
• No condensation on roof deck

Structural Elements:

• Rafters straight and solid
• No sagging between supports
• Decking feels solid (no soft spots)
• Chimney structure intact

Pro tip: Do attic inspection on a sunny day - you’ll see light leaks more easily.

On-Roof Inspection

Shingle Condition

Visual Check:

• Shingles lying flat
• No curling at edges
• No cupping (bowl shape)
• Granules intact (not bare patches)
• No cracks or splits
• All shingles present

Physical Check (Gently):

• Shingles not brittle
• Tabs sealed (not lifting)
• Nails not backing out (no bumps)

Flashings

Chimney Flashing:

• Step flashing intact along sides
• Counter flashing sealed at mortar joints
• No rust or corrosion
• Caulk not cracked or missing
• Chimney cap present and secure

Vent Pipe Boots:

• Rubber boot not cracked
• Flange sealed to shingles
• No gaps around pipe

Valley Flashing:

• Metal visible and intact
• No punctures or rust
• Debris cleared from valley

Wall Flashings:

• Step flashing behind siding
• Kickout flashing at wall ends
• Counter flashing sealed

Other Roof Features

Ridge and Hip Caps:

• All cap shingles present
• No cracking or curling
• Ends sealed

Vents:

• Screens intact (no animal entry)
• No visible damage
• Properly sealed at base

Skylights:

• No cracked glass
• Flashing intact
• Seals not deteriorated

Gutter System Inspection

Gutters

Physical Condition:

• No holes or rust spots
• Joints not separated
• Properly sloped toward downspouts
• Secured to fascia

Cleanliness:

• Free of leaves and debris
• Water flows freely
• No standing water
• No plant growth

Downspouts

• Securely attached
• No clogs (water exits freely)
• Extensions direct water 4+ feet from foundation
• Connected to drainage if applicable

Post-Storm Inspection

After Hail

• Check for dimples/dents in shingles
• Look for cracked or broken shingles
• Check metal vents and flashings for dents
• Document damage with photos
• Call insurance company if damage found

After High Winds

• Look for missing shingles
• Check for lifted or torn shingles
• Inspect ridge caps
• Look for debris impacts
• Check for fallen tree limbs

After Heavy Rain

• Inspect attic for new water stains
• Check ceilings for discoloration
• Look for water in light fixtures
• Inspect exterior walls for water marks

Warning Signs That Need Professional Help

Call a Roofer Immediately If:

Structural Issues:

• Roof visibly sagging
• Multiple areas of soft decking
• Rafters showing signs of failure

Active Leaks:

• Water dripping during rain
• Wet insulation in attic
• Ceiling damage spreading

Severe Damage:

• Large areas of missing shingles
• Storm damage covering more than 25%
• Flashing completely failed

Schedule an Inspection Soon If:

Aging Roof:

• Roof over 15 years old
• Significant granule loss in gutters
• Multiple repairs in past 2 years

Minor Issues:

• A few lifted or curling shingles
• Small areas of missing granules
• Caulk needing refresh

Inspection Frequency Guide

Situation	Recommended Frequency
Normal conditions	Twice yearly (spring/fall)
Roof 15-20 years old	Quarterly
After major storm	Immediately
New roof (first year)	Every 3 months
Before selling home	Professional inspection

DIY vs. Professional Inspection

DIY Inspection Good For:

• Regular maintenance checks
• Identifying obvious problems
• Monitoring known issues
• Post-storm quick checks

Professional Inspection Needed For:

• Pre-purchase home inspections
• Insurance claims
• Warranty issues
• Complex roof systems
• Steep or high roofs
• When problems are suspected

Professional inspection cost: $150-$400

Documentation Tips

Keep records of:

• Date of each inspection
• Photos of any issues found
• Repairs made and by whom
• Warranty information
• Insurance claims filed

Photo tips:

• Include wide shots showing context
• Close-ups of specific damage
• Multiple angles of problem areas
• Date stamps on photos

Calculate Repair or Replacement Costs

Need roof repair numbers? Use our Roofing Calculator.

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Pro Tip: Put roof checks on the calendar twice a year. Keep photos, notes, and warranty papers in one folder.