What Is Involved in a Professional Roof Inspection, and How Often Should I Have One Done?

Roof inspections help detect the damaged areas. See a professional inspection in action and when to schedule one.

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A man wearing a white hard hat and polo shirt stands outside, inspecting the exterior of a house. He holds a clipboard and pen, looking at the roof and siding. The background features green trees and clear skies.

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This blog includes things you can expect during a professional roof inspection and timeline for scheduling. Homeowners and business owners in Lenawee County and Washtenaw County, MI, will gain insight into roof maintenance, repair needs, and leak detection.
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Your roof protects everything underneath it. Whether you own a home or manage a commercial building in Lenawee or Washtenaw County, MI, routine inspections help avoid unexpected roof damage and costly repairs. A professional inspection can detect issues before they become serious problems. But what exactly is involved in an inspection, and how frequently should it be done?

What Happens During a Roof Inspection?

A professional roof inspection looks at the full system — not just the surface. It includes an exterior check of shingles, flashing, gutters, and soffits, as well as an interior review of your attic or ceiling for signs of moisture or structural stress.

Roofing contractors look for loose or missing shingles, soft spots, cracks in flashing, signs of animal intrusion, and clogged drainage. In many cases, they’ll also inspect for early signs of leaks that might not yet be visible from inside the building. If needed, they may recommend follow-up steps such as roof leak repair, resealing joints, or replacing damaged components.

Inspection Differences for Residential and Commercial Roofs

Residential roofs are typically pitched and covered with shingles, while commercial roofs are often flat with membrane or metal coverings. A residential roof inspection usually includes walking the roof, checking for wind or hail damage, and assessing attic ventilation.

Commercial roof inspections often involve evaluating the membrane for punctures or bubbles, checking rooftop equipment penetration points, and ensuring proper water drainage. No matter the property type, the inspection aims to identify issues early on and avoid unexpected repair and/or roof replacement costs.

How Often Should a Roof Be Inspected?

Residential roofs are typically pitched and covered with shingles, while commercial roofs are often flat with membrane or metal coverings. A residential roof inspection usually includes walking the roof, checking for wind or hail damage, and assessing attic ventilation.

Commercial roof inspections often involve evaluating the membrane for punctures or bubbles, checking rooftop equipment penetration points, and ensuring proper water drainage. No matter the property type, the inspection aims to identify issues early on and avoid unexpected repair and/or roof replacement costs.

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When Is an Inspection Most Urgent?

Certain signs mean an inspection shouldn’t be delayed. These include visible roof sagging, brown ceiling spots, mold in the attic, or loose flashing around vents and chimneys. Any evidence of a leak or unexplained increase in utility bills could indicate a compromised roof system.

Properties nearing the end of their expected roof lifespan — typically 20–30 years for shingles — should also have more frequent inspections. This helps determine whether roof repair is still an option or if a full roof replacement is necessary.

Preventive Maintenance and Inspection Go Hand in Hand

Roof maintenance and inspections support each other. During a routine inspection, roofing contractors may perform small preventive tasks such as resealing flashing, tightening fasteners, or cleaning out drainage systems.

By combining regular roof maintenance with scheduled inspections, homeowners and commercial property managers in Lenawee and Washtenaw County can keep their roofs in good condition longer, minimizing large repair bills and shortening the amount of emergency service calls.

Benefits of Hiring Local Roofing Contractors

Choosing a local roofing contractor means you’re working with professionals who understand the specific weather patterns and roofing challenges in southern Michigan. They know what to look for and can respond quickly if a problem is found.

Local contractors also make it easier to schedule routine inspections and repairs, ensuring timely service. Whether you need a one-time inspection or a long-term roof maintenance plan, working with a trusted contractor gives you better results.

Schedule Regular Roof Inspections to Avoid Major Repairs

Professional roof inspections give you the opportunity to address small problems in a time-concentrated manner. For homes and businesses in Lenawee and Washtenaw County, MI, scheduling regular inspections — once a year and after major storms. At Hamdan Quality Roofing, we offer detailed inspections, preventive maintenance, and all necessary follow-up work, including roof repair and replacement.

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