Roof Inspections & Roof Certifications
Both Inspections & Certifications play a major role on your property
What’s the Difference Between a Roof Inspection and Certification?
A roof inspection is a detailed and essential check-up on your roof’s current condition. It helps us find any problems like leaks, sagging areas, missing shingles, or damage caused by Sacramento’s weather.
A roof certification, on the other hand, comes after the inspection. It’s a written report that confirms the roof is in good condition and estimates how many years of life it has left. Certifications are often used during real estate transactions, or when insurance companies need documentation about your roof.
You can think of it this way:
Roof Inspection = Find problems or “need to knows”
Roof Certification = Confirms roof has gone through and passed a roof inspection.
You don’t automatically get a certification with an inspection. Your roof has to meet certain standards first.
When Should You Schedule a Roof Inspection?
Roof inspections aren’t just for when something goes wrong. They’re a smart way to stay ahead of roofing problems. Regular check-ups help catch issues early, giving you a chance to address them, preventing them from turning into costly roof repairs.
Here are the best times to schedule a roof inspection:
Once a year as part of regular maintenance
Annual inspections help keep your roof in good shape and extend its lifespan. It’s a small step that can prevent major damage down the road.After major storms or wind events
Strong winds, heavy rain, hail, or falling branches can cause hidden damage. An inspection after Sacramento’s relentless summer heat is also a good idea.Before buying or selling a home
A roof inspection gives the buyers peace of mind and can help sellers avoid deal-breaking surprises during escrow. A roof inspection and certification is a key part of a any smooth real estate process.If you suspect damage or notice leaks
Water stains, missing shingles, or musty smells in the property are all red flags. If something seems off, it’s better to have it looked at quickly rather than wait for a serious issue .
Even if everything seems fine, it’s smart to have a professional take a look. A short visit from New Era Roofing could save you thousands in repairs and give you peace of mind year round.
Types of Roof Inspections
Physical Inspection
Our most common option. We get up on the roof and check everything by hand. Cost: typically $150–$400.
Drone Inspection
Used for steep or high roofs. A drone captures photos and video from all angles. Cost: usually $200–$500.
Infrared Inspection
Great for detecting hidden issues like moisture or insulation problems. Cost: about $400–$600.
Roof Certification: What to Expect
A roof certification gives official and essential confirmation that your roof is in good shape. After passing inspection (or making necessary repairs), we provide a written report that includes:
The roof’s estimated remaining lifespan
Photos of key areas
Notes on repairs (if any were needed)
Certification period, typically 1 to 5 years
This certification can help with insurance approvals, refinancing, or selling a property with confidence.
Why Roof Certifications Matter in Real Estate
When it comes to real estate transactions, having a roof certification that basically confirms the roof passed inspections, is crucial. With over 25 years of trusted roofing expertise, we inspect and certify all roof types, including tile, shingles, flat roofs, and commercial roofing systems. Certifications can also be a strong selling point, especially when the roof isn’t brand new. A certification shows that a professional has inspected the roof and confirmed it’s in good condition, with no major issues to worry about.
Lenders and insurance companies may also require roof certification, especially if the roof is over 15–20 years old or if the home is in an area prone to storms, snow, or extreme heat which Sacramento can be. Without it, buyers could face delays in financing or higher interes rates.
For sellers, it’s an easy way to show transparency and avoid last-minute surprises during escrow. For buyers, it’s added reassurance that they’re not stepping into unexpected repair bills. It’s a simple document that carries real weight when it matters most.
Roof Inspections & Roof Certifications FAQs
What’s the difference between a roof inspection and a roof certification?
A roof inspection is a full check-up that looks for signs of damage or wear. A roof certification is a written statement confirming the roof is in good condition and estimating its remaining lifespan. Inspections come first. Certifications are only issued if the roof passes the inspection.
How long does a roof certification last?
Most roof certifications are valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the condition of the roof and who is issuing the certification. If you’re selling or refinancing a home, a valid certification can be a major help during that process.
How much does a roof inspection and certification cost?
Costs vary based on roof size, type, and access, but here’s a rough breakdown:
Basic inspection: $150–$400
Roof certification add-on: $75–$200
Drone or infrared inspections: $200–$600 (if needed)
Repairs or re-inspections may add to the total if your roof needs work to meet certification standards.
Can I get a roof certification without an inspection?
No. A roof certification always follows an inspection. If any issues are found, they must be fixed before certification can be issued. This ensures the certification reflects the true condition of the roof.
Do I need a roof certification to sell my home?
Not always, but it can make a big difference. Some lenders or insurance companies may require one, especially if the roof is older. Even if it’s not required, having a certification gives buyers more confidence and can help speed up the closing process.
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