After a Storm, the Importance of Hiring a Roof Inspector

When you schedule a roof inspection after a storm, you are taking the first step to protect your roof and your home. In the desert, we are usually glad to see rain, but rain can also bring leaks. An unnoticed leak is still roof damage, and it keeps growing until the water damage becomes obvious.

This post focuses on the inspector: why a professional inspection after a storm is worth it, what a good inspector does and how to choose one. Payne Roofing is always glad to talk with you about inspecting your home or business after a storm, or before one.

Your roof protects your family from hot sun, cold rain, intense wind and hail. After a storm, it is natural to want to check it yourself. But there are good reasons to leave it to a professional:

• Safety. Wet roofs are slippery, storm debris creates tripping hazards and falls from roofs cause serious injuries.
• Tile breaks easily. Walking on a tile roof without knowing where to step can crack tiles and create new leaks.
• Hidden damage. Many storm problems, such as cracked underlayment, lifted flashing or bruised shingles, are not obvious to an untrained eye.

From the ground, you can safely look for debris, missing shingles or tiles, and new interior stains. Leave the rest to a pro.

A roof inspection can catch small problems, such as broken or slipped tiles and areas that are not sealed properly, before they become big ones. After a storm, a thorough inspector will check:

• Wind damage: lifted, creased or missing shingles; shifted or cracked tiles; loose flashing and ridge pieces
• Hail damage: cracked tiles, bruised shingles, granule loss and dents in metal components
• Debris impacts: damage from heavy limbs and wind-blown objects
• Drainage: gutters, valleys and drains clogged with storm debris or dust
• Penetrations: solar panel mounts, skylights and vents, where storms, age and past roof work can weaken the roof's defenses
• The attic: fresh water stains or damp insulation

Rain and storms also gradually wear down shingles, so an inspector considers overall condition, not just new damage. That matters because storm damage on a roof that is already near the end of its life may change the recommendation from a repair to a planned replacement, and a good inspector will tell you so honestly.

A professional inspection gives you a clear record of your roof's condition after the storm, including photos of any damage. If you decide to contact your homeowners insurance company, that documentation helps you explain what happened. Coverage always depends on your policy and the insurer's evaluation, so we cannot promise any outcome, but good records make the conversation easier.

• Verify the license. Arizona roofing contractors are licensed by the Registrar of Contractors. You can check any license at roc.az.gov. Payne Roofing holds ROC #138549 and ROC #194202.
• Confirm insurance and bonding. Payne Roofing is licensed, bonded and insured.
• Look for local experience. A roofer familiar with Arizona tile, foam and monsoon damage knows where to look.
• Expect clear explanations. A good inspector shows you what they found and explains your options without pressure.
• Be cautious with unsolicited offers. After storms, take your time, verify credentials and get a written estimate before agreeing to work.

Many homeowners have never had their roof inspected, or have done it only once or twice. Waiting until major damage occurs is usually more expensive than preventive inspections that catch minor issues before the next storm takes its toll. The Phoenix area sees repeated storms during monsoon season, so regular inspections help make sure the roof has not been compromised by hidden damage.

Schedule an inspection at least annually, ideally one to two times a year, and after significant storms. For a prompt appointment, call 480-988-9250. Learn more about our roof inspections.