What Happens During a Free Roof Inspection

Your Roof. Protected.

You've scheduled a free roof inspection after a storm. What actually happens when the contractor arrives? What are they looking for — and what should you expect from start to finish? Here's a complete walkthrough.

Before the Inspection: What to Do

You don't need to prepare much, but a few things will help:

• Gather your insurance information — have your policy number and insurance company phone number handy
• Note the storm date and time — you'll need this for a claim
• Document your own photos — interior ceiling stains, exterior damage visible from ground
• Clear access to your attic — the inspector may want to check from inside
• Note recent repairs — let the contractor know about any recent work done on the roof

The Inspection Process: Step by Step

Arrival and Introduction (5 minutes)

A professional contractor will introduce themselves, show credentials if asked, and explain what they'll be doing. They should have a ladder, safety equipment, and a camera or tablet for documentation. Red flag: any contractor who can't clearly explain their process or pressures you immediately.

Ground-Level Assessment (10-15 minutes)

Before going on the roof, experienced inspectors examine "control surfaces" — soft metals that record hail impacts precisely. They'll look at:

• Gutters and downspouts (dents and dings)
• Window screens (punctures indicate hail size)
• AC condenser fins (consistent denting confirms hail)
• Painted wood fascia and trim (fresh scratches or dents)
• Exterior vents and HVAC equipment

This ground survey establishes whether a storm event occurred and helps estimate hail size — key information for your insurance claim.

Roof Inspection (20-40 minutes)

The contractor will safely access your roof and systematically inspect every section. On a standard asphalt shingle roof, they examine:

• Field shingles — the main flat sections of each slope
• Ridge caps — the shingles along the peak (most vulnerable to hail)
• Valleys — where two roof sections meet (water concentration points)
• Flashings — metal strips at chimneys, vents, skylights, and edges
• Pipe boots — rubber seals around plumbing penetrations
• Roof vents — including turbines, box vents, and ridge vents
• Gutters and drip edge — checked from above for proper installation and damage

Attic Inspection (10-15 minutes, if accessible)

A thorough inspector will check your attic for:

• Daylight visible through the roof deck
• Water stains on rafters or sheathing
• Wet or compressed insulation
• Signs of active leaks or past water damage
• Adequate ventilation (poor ventilation causes premature roof aging)

Post-Inspection Discussion (10-15 minutes)

After the inspection, the contractor will walk you through their findings on-site, showing you photos of everything they documented. A good inspector explains what they found in plain language — not roofing jargon — and helps you understand whether the damage warrants an insurance claim.

What You Receive After the Inspection

Within 24-48 hours, you should receive:

• A written inspection report with photos of all damage
• A scope of work describing recommended repairs or replacement
• An estimate (which your insurance company will use or compare against their adjuster's estimate)

What You're NOT Obligated to Do

A free inspection is just that — free. You are not obligated to:

• File an insurance claim
• hire that contractor for any work
• Sign any contract or agreement
• Make any decision on the day of the inspection

Any contractor who pressures you to sign a contract immediately or threatens to "cancel your free inspection" should be avoided. Reputable contractors let their work and their report speak for themselves.

Ready to Schedule Your Free Inspection?

All contractors in our network are licensed, vetted, and insured. There's no cost, no pressure, and no obligation. Just an honest assessment of your roof — so you can make an informed decision about your home and your insurance claim.