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Roof Inspection
 The home inspector shall observe: Roof covering; Roof drainage systems; Flashings; Skylights, chimneys, and roof penetrations; and Signs of' leaks or abnormal condensation on building components. The home inspector shall: Describe the type of roof covering materials; and Report the methods used to observe the roofing.
 The roof on the right and left are both in very good condition, however the roof on the left revealed rain coming in directly to the attic due to holes in vents!
I have most recently inspected a metal roof in Jordan, MN that was rusting and allowing snow to creep up under the metal. Ice was building up, and bending the metal further each season.
The ceilings in the house are the first place I will check for water stains or damage from a leaky roof. Most often the homes I inspect are empty (due to current market conditions), and they have been freshly painted. It is not always possible in this situation to find previous water damage. Using a moisture detector through-out the square footage of the ceilings is also not practical. Most often when water damage staining is not visible-I carefully inspect for waves, or imperfections in drywall surface. Patching may have occurred, and often traces of where the old and the new sheetrock join can provide clues as to where past roof leakage/damage has occurred. The attic also has many stories to tell of water entry and disconnected venting. What I say about a suspected roof problem (without clear proof)-monitor those areas documented/pictured in the inspection report. It is possible the problem has been fixed-but a good rain or thaw will expose an ongoing problem. I am happy when it rains prior to an inspection-it makes it easier for us all to see the problems first hand.
We all are there for a minimum of three hours (when you choose to join in the inspection) -it really can save weeks, months, and perhaps years of problems to have your house inspected before you purchase your new home. At the very best only minor defects are found-you receive information specific to your home for care, maintanence and you will have a "to do" list in hand!
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