How to Prepare Your Home for a Free Roof Inspection
Schedule a free roof inspection by clearing access, removing loose debris, and gathering recent repair records; this lets the inspector see the roof's condition quickly and focus on any damage from Texas hail, wind, or sun.
Clear the work area around the house
Trim back overgrown trees, shrubs, and vines that hide the roof edges. Move lawn furniture, grills, and kids' play equipment away from the perimeter. A clean perimeter lets the inspector walk safely and spot problems without obstacles, especially in the DFW hail corridor.
Secure loose roofing material
Check for loose shingles, metal panels, or tiles and gently tap them back into place if safe to do so. Tighten any visible fasteners that have come loose. This prevents the inspector from mistaking temporary fixes for underlying damage.
Gather documentation and warranty info
Pull together any recent repair invoices, warranty paperwork, or previous inspection reports. Having these on hand helps the inspector compare past work with current conditions, which is useful for homes with composition shingles that age under Texas sun.
Make interior access easy
Open attic hatches and clear stored items from the attic floor. Ensure there's a clear path to the roof deck so the inspector can check ventilation, insulation, and any signs of water intrusion that often appear after spring storms.
Prepare for the inspector's questions
Be ready to answer basic questions about the roof's age, any recent repairs, and whether you've filed an insurance claim. The inspector may also ask about the home's exposure to wind in Houston or hail in the I-35 corridor.
- Trim trees at least three feet from the roof edge.
- Remove debris like leaves, branches, and gutters overflow.
- Secure loose shingles or metal panels.
- Gather repair invoices, warranties, and past inspection reports.
- Open attic hatches and clear stored items.
- Know the roof's installation date and any recent work.
- Have your insurance policy number handy for reference.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Do I need to be home for the free roof inspection?
A: It helps if you're around to answer quick questions about recent repairs or the roof's age, but the inspector can still complete the assessment without you present.
Q: Will the inspector move my belongings?
A: No, the inspector will only look at the roof surface and attic access. They won't rearrange furniture or stored items, so keep pathways clear beforehand.
Q: How long does a typical inspection take?
A: Most inspections last between thirty minutes and an hour, depending on roof size, complexity, and any visible issues that need closer look.
Q: Can the inspector identify hail damage on composition shingles?
A: Yes, they'll look for dents, granule loss, and edge cracking that are common after hail events in the DFW corridor and other Texas regions.
Q: What should I do if the inspector finds a problem?
A: They'll explain the issue and suggest next steps, which may include contacting your insurance carrier or getting a repair estimate from an insured contractor.
Think your roof took a hit, or is it just overdue for a look? Call Select Roofing at (877) 997-4464 or book a free inspection. Straight answers, no pressure.
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