Pricing Roof Inspections and Estimates
What each kind of roof inspection covers, and who usually pays for it
What each kind of roof inspection covers, and who usually pays for it
From a roofer's free estimate visit to a paid independent assessment
Homeowners in New Hampshire have three common ways to get a roof checked. This site does not sell inspections; the notes below explain what each option covers so you can pick the one that fits.
A roofer looks at the roof and quotes the work. Many local roofers do this at no charge.
Part of a full home inspection, usually when a house is bought or sold. The fee covers the whole house, not only the roof.
A roofing consultant or engineer with nothing to sell documents the roof in detail. Worth it for disputes, large claims or big buildings.
What each kind of roof inspection usually includes
| What You Get | Estimate Visit | Home Inspection | Independent Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | |||
| Findings or Quote in Writing | |||
| Material Analysis | — | ||
| Notes on Remaining Roof Life | — | ||
| Independent of the Repair Contract | — | ||
| Common During a Home Sale | — | Usually | Sometimes |
| Detailed Scope for Contractor Bids | — | — | |
| Review of Past Work and Warranties | — | — | |
| Engineering-Level Detail | — | — |
Whoever looks at your roof should check the structure, the roof covering, the flashing and the attic, not only the shingles you can see from the driveway.
Get the findings in writing, with photos. A written report or quote is what you compare between contractors and what you show an insurer.
Ask what is urgent, what can wait a season and what is cosmetic. Clear answers to those three questions are worth more than a long report.
Know whether the person inspecting has a stake in the repair. A roofer's estimate is free because it can lead to a sale; an independent inspector is paid by you and has nothing to sell.
For most repairs and replacements, yes, as long as you get two or three of them in writing and compare the materials and scope line by line.
When the stakes are high or the roofers disagree: a large insurance claim, a dispute over work already done, or a commercial or multi-unit building.
Get a second opinion before you commit. If two contractors find the same problem on their own, you can trust the diagnosis and compare their prices.
Many residential roofers do not, but ask when you book. Some charge for drone surveys, core samples or reports written for an insurer.
Roof conditions change with each winter, so treat a report or quote older than six months as a starting point and ask for a fresh look before you sign.
Our resources page has a checklist for judging any roofer's estimate, or you can send us a question.
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