If you’re planning to sell your house, a home inspection will be required by the potential buyer’s lender. To ensure that your property sells without an issue, it’s essential to identify and correct structural issues, such as roof repairs, before putting the house for sale. The following list gives examples of what a home inspector will look for.

5 Roof Components to Inspect Before Selling Your Home

1. Shingles

A home inspector will look at the condition of the shingles on the roof. If you have composition shingles, they will look for curled, missing, or damaged shingles, along with multiple layers of roofing materials. Wooden shingles should be clean and free of mold or mildew, and not be broken or missing. This is a basic roof repair that should be done before the home inspection.

2. Chimney

This is another area that a home inspector will look at closely. To be safe, a chimney needs to meet state codes—sturdy structure, functioning filtering components, and creosote-free. It should be properly flashed, straight, and need no mortar or brick replacement.

3. Flat or Metal Roofs

A flat roof should have no standing water, be free of debris, and have no cracks, blistering, or visible patching. Metal roofs should have even paint and no cracks, splits, or leaks.  

4. Flashing

Flashing acts as a sealer, as it’s used in the joints of a roof to prevent leaks. A home inspector will look at the flashing on dormers, eaves, side walls, and valleys to ensure that it’s functional and properly sealed. This is another roof repair that a roofing contractor should do before the inspection.

5. Gutters

If your gutters have exceeded their lifespan—they’re crumbling, they don’t properly flush water away from the roof, or they’re outdated—consider replacing them. They will upgrade the look of the home’s exterior. If they’re still functional, clear them of leaves and branches and inspect them for damaged or broken components.

If you’re gearing up to sell your home, it’s wise to inspect your roof for damages that can potentially affect a sale. Akamai Roofing Inc, in Pearl City, HI, offers the island of Oahu complete roofing services, from cleaning and maintenance to storm repair and new roof installations. Locally owned since 1972, they are experts in Hawaii’s roofing needs. Call (808) 486-5555 for an estimate for roof repair or visit them online to view their services.