Drone and visual roof inspections in San Diego
A visual roof inspection is included with all of the physical inspections we perform*. Our construction experts will find any material defects and installation errors by walking most roofs.
Included with every inspection
A visual roof inspection comes with every physical inspection we do. We walk the roof wherever it is safe to, because walking it is still the best way to find lifted tiles, short flashing and bad penetrations.
The inspection itself was excellent. He thoroughly inspected the exterior, from the roof to the foundation and landscaping.
When we fly it instead
Some roofs are too steep, too high or too wet to walk. Those get a remote camera, which is how we found the slipped tile in this photo on a roof nobody could reach. Repairable then, a leak later.
The report
Every finding comes with a photograph and a description, so a roof problem you could not see becomes something you can price or negotiate.
What's Included
Everything below is in the written report.
- Roof covering condition concrete and clay tile, asphalt composition shingle, or flat/low-slope membrane (TPO, modified bitumen, built-up)
- Cracked, slipped, broken, or missing tiles and shingles
- Flashing at valleys, walls, chimneys, skylights, and roof penetrations
- Condition of underlayment where visible, and signs of sun/UV degradation
- Roof drainage gutters, scuppers, downspouts, and ponding on flat roofs
- Pipe boots, vents, and sealant around penetrations (a top leak source)
- Skylights and their seals
- Evidence of prior repairs, patches, or layered coverings
- Attic-side inspection for active leaks, water staining, and daylight intrusion (where accessible)
- Interior ceilings and walls for moisture stains tied to roof issues
- Estimated remaining service life and maintenance recommendations
From booking to report
1
Book it
With a home inspection, or on its own.
2
On the roof
Walked where safe, flown where it is not.
3
The report
Photographs and descriptions, same day or next.
4
Questions after
We talk you through what needs repair or maintenance.
Included in every home inspection; standalone roof checks are priced per visit.
Visual roof inspection
- Standalone roof inspectionCall or text for quote
- With a home inspectionIncluded
Commercial roof maintenance
- Up to 10,000 sq. ft.$800
- 10,001 – 20,000 sq. ft.$1,250
- 21,000+ sq. ft.Call for quote
Visual roof inspections: questions we get
Do you walk on the roof?
When it's safe and the roof can support foot traffic, yes. Some surfaces, like fragile tile or very steep pitches, can be damaged by walking, so in those cases we inspect from ladders, edges, and elevated vantage points to get the detail we need without harming the roof.
Isn't the roof already covered in a general home inspection?
A general inspection includes the roof, but a standalone roof inspection goes deeper on roof-specific concerns and is the right choice when you want focused documentation, a second look after a flagged issue, or roof-only service for a property you already own.
How often should I have my San Diego roof inspected?
A good rule of thumb is annually, ideally before summer, plus after any major storm or high-wind event. Older tile and flat roofs benefit from closer monitoring.
My ceiling has a stain but I don't see a roof problem. Can you help?
Yes. Our dry climate lets leaks travel and hide, so the visible stain is often far from the actual entry point. We trace the likely source and can pair the inspection with thermal imaging to find moisture that isn't visible to the eye.
What is a visual roof inspection?
A visual roof inspection is a non-destructive, surface-level evaluation of your roof's condition performed from accessible vantage points. Our InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector examines the roof covering, flashing, drainage, and visible penetrations for wear, damage, and aging. It documents current condition with photos but does not involve destructive testing, removing materials, or engineering analysis.
Who needs a visual roof inspection in San Diego, and when?
Homebuyers, sellers, and owners planning maintenance benefit most from a visual roof inspection. It's wise before purchasing a property, after major storms or Santa Ana winds, or when a roof nears the end of its expected lifespan. San Diego's coastal salt air and inland heat accelerate wear, so periodic checks help catch problems before they become costly leaks.
What's included in a visual roof inspection?
Our visual roof inspection covers the roof covering (shingles, tile, or flat membrane), flashing, valleys, eaves, gutters, downspouts, and visible penetrations like vents, skylights, and chimneys. We check for damaged, missing, or aging materials, drainage issues, and signs of past leaks. Findings are documented with photos in a clear written report you can act on.
How long does a roof inspection take and what should I expect?
Most visual roof inspections take roughly 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the roof's size, height, pitch, and complexity. We assess accessible areas safely, photograph conditions, and explain anything notable. You'll receive a written report detailing the roof's condition and any recommended repairs or monitoring, helping you make informed decisions before buying, selling, or maintaining your home.
Roofs, in detail
Field notes from the inspectors.
Your home is a major investment.
Protect it with San Diego's certified, 5-star-rated inspectors.