Build a roof map before assigning condition
Divide the building into identifiable roof planes, additions, porches, garages, valleys, walls, and lower sections. For each, record material, approximate age if known, flashing, penetrations, drainage, visible wear, and interior evidence. A single condition label can hide meaningful differences between an older addition and a newer main roof or between a shaded plane and an open one. The report should state access and concealment limits. A mapped inspection supports focused repair, phased planning, and later rechecks because every photograph and recommendation points to a location the owner can find.
- Use consistent names for roof sections, elevations, and transitions.
- Separate directly observed conditions from age assumptions or inaccessible areas.
- Rank findings by safety, active water, likely progression, maintenance, and monitoring.
