How much does a roof inspection report cost?
Short answer. A photo report from a roofing company's inspection is usually free, a general home inspection includes a roof section within its overall fee, and stand-alone roof certification letters or engineering reports cost more because they carry a formal written opinion. What is worth paying for is detail: photos of every slope and problem area, attic findings, and clear conclusions.
The kinds of reports
- Roofing company inspection. Typically free. You should get photos and an explanation of condition, damage and wear.
- Home inspection roof section. Part of a pre-purchase inspection. Inspectors may view the roof from the ground, a ladder or a drone, depending on safety and their practice.
- Roof certification letter. A paid written statement of condition or remaining life, sometimes requested by buyers, lenders or insurers.
- Engineering report. The most expensive, used in disputes over cause of damage, such as hail versus wear, or structural questions.
When you need which
- Checking after a storm: a roofing company inspection is the usual first step.
- Buying a house: the home inspection, plus a roofer's look if the inspector flags concerns.
- An insurer asks for proof of condition: ask exactly what format they accept.
- A claim dispute: your options may include a reinspection or an independent opinion.
What a good report contains
- Photos of each slope, plus close-ups of damage, flashing, pipe boots and vents.
- Attic observations where accessible: staining, daylight, ventilation.
- Roof age estimate, material and number of layers.
- A plain statement of what is damage, what is wear and what is fine.
Be cautious of reports with no photos, or a free inspection that ends with pressure to sign that day. See what to expect from a roof inspection and how long a roof lasts in Georgia.