Roofing Pre-Inspection Checklist

40-point homeowner assessment · roughestimator.com/roofing-calculator

Complete this before calling a contractor. Condition ratings: G = Good, F = Fair, P = Poor, N/A = Not Applicable

1. Shingles — Exterior

• Missing shingles visible from ground G / F / P
• Curling or cupping shingle edges G / F / P
• Blistering or bubbling on shingle surface G / F / P
• Granule loss — visible bare asphalt spots G / F / P
• Granule accumulation in gutters (sign of age) G / F / P
• Cracking or alligatoring of shingles G / F / P
• Moss, algae, or black staining G / F / P

2. Flashings

• Chimney flashing — base flashing intact, cap flashing counter-flashed G / F / P / N/A
• Pipe boot flashings not cracked or split (around plumbing vents) G / F / P
• Skylight curb flashing and step flashing secure G / F / P / N/A
• Valley flashing visible or open valley clean and undamaged G / F / P / N/A
• Wall step flashing at dormers G / F / P / N/A
• Drip edge present at eaves and rakes G / F / P

3. Roof Deck & Decking (Attic Access)

• Plywood or OSB deck — no soft spots or spongy areas when walked on G / F / P
• No visible daylight through deck in attic G / F / P
• No staining or water marks on underside of deck G / F / P
• Decking boards properly nailed (no popped nails visible from attic) G / F / P

4. Attic Ventilation

• Ridge vent or ridge cap present and unobstructed G / F / P / N/A
• Soffit vents present and not blocked by insulation G / F / P
• Attic free of condensation or frost in winter G / F / P
• Power attic fan operational (if present) G / F / P / N/A
• Net Free Area (NFA) meets 1/150 of attic floor area G / F / P

5. Ice & Water Barrier (Cold Climates)

• Ice & water shield present at eaves (first 24 in minimum) G / F / P / N/A
• I&W shield at valleys and around all penetrations G / F / P / N/A

6. Gutters & Downspouts

• Gutters firmly attached — no sagging or separation from fascia G / F / P
• Gutter slope toward downspout (no standing water) G / F / P
• No cracks, holes, or rust in gutter sections G / F / P
• Downspouts properly connected and discharge away from foundation G / F / P
• Gutter guards present and unobstructed G / F / P / N/A

7. Soffit & Fascia

• Fascia boards solid — no rot or paint failure G / F / P
• Soffit panels intact — no holes or animal entry points G / F / P
• Soffit paint or cladding in good condition G / F / P

8. Age & History

• Approximate roof age: ____ years (asphalt 3-tab: 15–20 yr; architectural: 25–30 yr)
• Number of shingle layers: ____ (max 2 allowed by most codes)
• Date of last repair or replacement: ____________
• Known leak history documented: ____________

9. Contractor Questions (for Estimate Appointment)

• Will you pull a building permit?
• Do you carry general liability and workers' comp insurance? (Request COI)
• Will the deck be inspected before sheathing? What is the cost per sheet if replacement is needed?
• Who is responsible for dumpster, haul-off, and disposal fees?
• What is the warranty on workmanship vs. manufacturer product warranty?