Buying a home is a significant investment, and as a buyer, you want to ensure that you’re making the right choice. While you may focus on the interior features and overall appeal, it’s just as important to consider the home’s exterior, especially the roof. A roof in need of repairs or replacement can lead to costly repairs down the line and delay the closing process. One of the most common and sometimes overlooked issues is storm damage, particularly hail damage, which can go undetected until it’s too late. Here’s why homebuyers should make sure to have the roof inspected for storm damage before finalizing the purchase.

Storm Damage: The Hidden Risk

While a home inspection typically covers major systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, many home inspectors are not roofing experts. A general inspection may not always uncover storm damage, such as hail damage or wind damage, that could have occurred in recent years. Without a specialized roof inspection, you may not discover that the roof is damaged until after you’ve purchased the home.

Hail damage, in particular, can cause significant issues to the roof, gutters, and other parts of the home. It’s important to understand that even if you don’t see visible signs of damage, the roof could still be compromised. This could lead to leaks, water damage, and more expensive repairs down the road. For your peace of mind and financial protection, you should ensure the roof is professionally inspected before buying the property.

Why a Professional Roof Inspection Matters

A professional roofing contractor has the experience and knowledge to identify signs of storm damage that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Here’s what they typically look for:

• Dents and dings on shingles or metal roofing: Hail damage often causes visible marks, but they can be subtle.
• Damaged gutters or downspouts: These can indicate past storm activity that could affect the roof as well.
• Missing or damaged shingles: Storms can dislodge shingles, leading to leaks if not repaired.
• Cracks in flashing or damaged seals around chimneys or vents: This can lead to water infiltration.

A professional inspection can help identify any potential issues so you’re not left with costly repairs after you’ve already moved in.

Use the Extreme Weather Report Tool to Check for Storm History

Before even scheduling the roof inspection, homebuyers can take proactive steps to investigate whether the property they’re considering purchasing has been impacted by severe weather. Our Extreme Weather Report tool allows you to check the weather history in the area and determine whether any storms, particularly hailstorms, have occurred recently.

This tool provides valuable information about the frequency and severity of past storms in the area, giving you insight into potential risks. If you discover that the home has been affected by severe weather, you can schedule a roof inspection with a professional who specializes in storm damage. This step will help you make an informed decision and avoid any surprises during the closing process.

Prevent Closing Delays and Unexpected Costs

Finding storm damage before you close on the home can save you a significant amount of stress and money. If storm damage is discovered after you’ve already purchased the home, you may have to negotiate with the seller or delay the closing for repairs to be made. Even worse, you could be left to pay for repairs that could have been covered by the seller or insurance if identified beforehand.

By proactively checking for storm damage, you can avoid these issues. If damage is found, you can negotiate with the seller to have the roof repaired or receive a price reduction. In some cases, storm damage may even be covered by the seller’s insurance, which can make the entire process smoother.

The Bottom Line: Protect Your Investment

As a homebuyer, you want to ensure that you’re purchasing a property that is in good condition and won’t require major repairs shortly after you move in. Having the roof professionally inspected for storm damage, especially hail damage, is a smart move that can save you time and money. By using tools like the Extreme Weather Report, you can make sure the property hasn’t been affected by recent storms before you make an offer.

Don’t let hidden storm damage become a costly surprise. Take the time to get a thorough roof inspection and check the storm history using the Extreme Weather Report to protect your investment and ensure a smooth home-buying process.