- Outside: Either your inspector, or both of you, should conduct a visual inspection o the roof. See if anything looks out of place, damaged, or missing: missing shingles, damaged flashing, etc. Any significant problems should be repaired immediately. Conduct similar inspections around any chimney or other outcroppings such as vents.
- Inside: Next, inspect the roof from the inside. Go up in the attic and look around for any signs of light from the outside. (Hint: if light can get into your attic, so can water! Any cracks will need to be sealed or caulked (or both.) Also, check all ceilings for water stains, cracking, or warping. If you find any, then you know the water is coming from somewhere. And don't assume that the leak is right above the damaged area; water can run for a distance before it settles in and starts to seep through the ceiling material.
- Found Damage? Before closing, we strongly recommend having any roof needs repaired. Otherwise, make a note to inspect it again every six months, since a small problem can rapidly turn into a large one. If roofing repair is needed at any time go with a professional, and get references. With most cases of home repair, hiring the wrong person will almost always result in subsequent problems.
REMEMBER: Your roof should last you ten to twelve years if properly maintained. Make your first inspection the first of MANY...Get in the habit now of performing regular inspections and keeping an eye out for problems as they occur.
Bonnie and Daniel Papandrea
704-756-8071