A homeowner roof check is most useful when it is consistent and safe. You do not need to walk on the roof to notice changes. Use the same ground-level viewpoints, take dated photos, and record what happens during or shortly after rain.
Exterior checklist from the ground
- Missing, lifted, cracked, or curled shingles
- Moss concentrated along shingle edges or valleys
- Debris behind chimneys and in drainage paths
- Loose or bent flashing
- Damaged fascia, soffits, or gutter hangers
- Branches touching or overhanging the roof
Binoculars or a zoom camera can help. Never climb onto a wet, frosty, mossy, steep, or unfamiliar roof.
Gutter and downspout clues
Look for overflow marks, water staining behind the gutter, disconnected downspouts, erosion near outlets, and excessive shingle granules. A handful of granules after a new installation may be normal, but a persistent heavy accumulation on an older roof deserves attention.
Interior and attic checklist
After rain, inspect accessible attic areas for damp insulation, discoloured sheathing, rusty nails, daylight at unexpected locations, or a musty smell. Condensation can resemble a roof leak, so note whether moisture is widespread or concentrated below a roof feature.
Document roof penetrations and transitions
Chimneys, plumbing vents, skylights, walls, valleys, and roof edges are common diagnostic areas because multiple materials meet there. Repeated sealant patches can be a clue that the underlying flashing detail needs a more durable repair.
When to arrange a professional inspection
Book a professional roof inspection after severe wind, a fallen branch, a new interior stain, unexplained gutter debris, or before planning major cleaning or repair. Also consider an inspection when buying a home or when the roof’s age and service history are unclear.
What a useful report should provide
Look for clear photographs, observed conditions, limitations, and prioritized recommendations. A report should distinguish immediate concerns from maintenance items and should not overstate what can be known without opening the roof assembly. Contact Roof Upkeep for a Metro Vancouver roof assessment.