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Inspections in Chicago, IL

Roof inspection in Chicago with a clear written report

Find out the real condition of your roof before you buy, sell, file a claim or spend money on repairs.

  • Roof, flashing and attic checked
  • Findings explained in plain words
  • Written report with photos

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What do you need?

What is checked in a roof inspection in Chicago?

A roof inspection is a careful look at the roof and the parts around it, followed by a written report. The aim is to say what condition the roof is in, what problems exist and what to do about them.

On a pitched home roof, the inspector usually looks at:

  • Shingles for curling, cracking, missing pieces and granule loss.
  • Flashing at chimneys, walls, valleys, skylights and vents.
  • Gutters, downspouts and the roof edge.
  • The attic, for damp insulation, stains, daylight and signs of poor ventilation.

On a flat or low-slope roof, the inspector looks at the membrane, seams, drains, scuppers, parapet walls and anything mounted on the roof. Photos are taken so you can see what the report describes.

When should I book a roof inspection?

Common reasons for an inspection include:

  • Buying a home. Many Chicago houses and flats are older, and the roof can be a large future cost.
  • Selling. A report lets you deal with surprises before a buyer finds them.
  • After a storm. Hail and wind damage is not always visible from the ground. See our page on storm damage roof repair for next steps.
  • Before winter. A fall check catches weak flashing and clogged gutters before snow and ice arrive.
  • Insurance questions. An insurer may ask about roof age and condition.
  • Planning a project. A report helps you decide between repair and replacement.

A roof that is not leaking can still have problems, so a check every few years is reasonable, and sooner after severe weather.

What is a roof certification, and do I need one?

A roof certification is a written statement from a contractor about the roof's condition and expected remaining life. Some buyers, lenders or insurers ask for one, especially on older buildings. Not every sale or policy requires it.

The wording and terms of a certification differ between insurers and lenders, and a contractor cannot promise a result before looking at the roof. If someone has asked you for a certification, ask them exactly what the document must say and who should receive it. Then ask the contractor whether they can provide it for your roof. Some roofs will not qualify, and in that case the report explains why and what repairs would be needed.

Treat any certification as a record of condition on the day of the visit. It is not a promise about the future.

We do not list prices online. These factors affect the cost:

  • The size and number of roofs, such as a single house versus a three-flat or a commercial building.
  • The roof type and pitch, and how easy it is to reach safely.
  • Whether the attic or ceiling below can be checked.
  • How detailed the report must be, and whether it must follow a format asked for by a buyer, lender or insurer.

Most home inspections take a short visit, often under a couple of hours, and a larger or more complex roof takes longer. Expect the inspector to use a ladder, to walk the roof when it is safe, and to ask for attic access. On wet, icy or very windy days, the visit may be moved to keep everyone safe.

What happens after the inspection?

You receive a written report that lists what was found, with photos and a plain explanation of each item. The report sorts problems by how urgent they are. Some items may be minor upkeep, some may need a repair soon and some may point toward replacement.

From there you choose. You may fix a few items, plan a roof replacement for later, or take the report to a buyer, seller or insurer. You are not obliged to hire us for any repair, and you can use the report to collect quotes from other contractors. If you want a general overview of our services, visit the Chicago roofing home page.

Keep the report with your house records. It is useful later if you sell or file a claim.

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  • Free inspections
  • Written estimates
  • Local crew

Questions about roofing in Chicago

How often should I have my roof inspected?

A check every few years is reasonable for most roofs, and after any severe storm. Older roofs and roofs on buildings with past leaks benefit from a yearly look. Fall is a practical time, because problems get found before snow and ice arrive.

Do I need to be home for the inspection?

It helps if someone can give access to the attic or the top floor ceiling, and to answer questions about past leaks. For a roof-only visit, access to a ladder spot and the roof edge may be enough. Agree on the plan when you book.

Will the inspection tell me how many years are left?

The report gives an informed view of condition and likely remaining life, but nobody can promise an exact number. Weather, attic ventilation and past repairs all affect how a roof ages. Treat the estimate as guidance and plan for maintenance accordingly.

Can an inspection help with an insurance claim?

A written report with dated photos helps record the roof's condition and any storm damage. Your insurer decides what is covered. Keep photos from before and after storms, and send your insurer the report if they ask for evidence of the damage.

What if the roof fails the inspection?

The report will say what is wrong, how urgent each problem is and what the fix might involve. Many problems are repairable. In other cases replacement is the sensible answer. You can use the report to get written quotes and decide at your own pace.

How it works

  1. Call or request a quote

    Tell us what is happening with the roof.

  2. Free inspection

    A roofer checks the roof and gives a written price.

  3. Work done right

    Clean crew, nail sweep, warranty in writing.

Request roof inspection

Tell us what you need and we call you back.

No obligation.

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What do you need?

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