Whether you’re prepping for home maintenance, checking for storm damage, or getting ready to sell, a roof inspection is a wise step. Here’s a full guide tailored to South Carolina homeowners on how to schedule one—what to expect, what to look for, and how to choose the right inspector.
Why Get a Roof Inspection
Scheduling a roof inspection brings several benefits:
● Identifies damage (from storms, wind, hail, or aging) before leaks become major problems.
● Helps maintain warranties (many roofing materials require documented inspections).
● Improves safety and potentially lowers insurance risk.
● Helps with resale value: buyers often want a recent inspection.
● Gives you a proactive maintenance plan (rather than reactive repairs).
Key Considerations for South Carolina
Because of our climate and regional building codes, there are some special considerations:
● Coastal hurricane/tropical-storm risk means roofs may need higher wind ratings and more regular checks. For example, roofing materials in South Carolina must meet certain wind-resistance standards (e.g., ASTM D-3161 modified for 110 mph in certain zones).
● Many municipalities require permits for re-roofing or major roofing work. Even though an inspection itself may not always need one, if the inspection leads to work it’s wise to understand local permitting.
● Make sure the inspector is qualified and ideally familiar with South Carolina building code requirements. For example: licensing for home inspectors and awareness of standards.
Step-by-Step: How to Schedule a Roof Inspection
1. Define the Purpose & Scope
Decide why you want the inspection and what needs to be checked. For example:
● Are you checking for storm damage?
● Are you preparing to sell the home or get insurance approval?
● Routine maintenance because the roof is aging (10-20+ years)?
● Want a full top-to-bottom inspection including attic, flashings, gutters, etc.?
Having this clear helps you tell the inspector what you need.
2. Choose the Right Inspector or Company
Look for the following:
● Licensed or registered inspector (especially if providing a formal report).
● Experience in roofing inspections (not just general home inspections).
● Familiarity with local conditions (wind, hail, coastal salt air) and South Carolina roofing code.
● Ability to provide a written report with photographs, description of defects, recommendations.
● Good references or reviews in your area.
3. Check Local Permits & Code Requirements
Although an inspection often doesn’t require a permit, if the inspection leads to repair or replacement you may need one. For example: In the City of Charleston a re-roofing permit requires documents including roof type and manufacturer specs.
Also make sure the roofing materials and installation meet local code (e.g., wind-resistance ratings) in case you’ll act on findings.
4. Schedule the Inspection
Contact the inspector and arrange:
● Date & time (preferably when you can be present, to ask questions).
● Cost/fee and what exactly is included.
● What you need to prepare (clear attic access, ensure gutters are clean, remove obstacles).
● How the report will be delivered (digital, physical).
● Whether extra services (drone inspection, thermal imaging) are available and cost.
5. Prepare for the Inspection
Before the inspector arrives:
● Clear access to roof — remove obstructions, clean gutters if needed.
● Ensure attic access is clear (if attic inspection is part of the scope).
● Note any concern areas (e.g., recent leak, sagging ceilings, missing shingles) to point out.
● If you have previous roof documentation (warranty, materials, installation date), have it handy.
6. Attend the Inspection & Ask Questions
While the inspector is on site (or after) ask:
● What is the current condition of my roof?
● Are there any urgent repairs needed?
● How many more years of life do you estimate?
● What maintenance do you recommend?
● Are there issues specific to South Carolina (wind, salt air, moss, etc.)?
● Are the flashing, vents, gutters in good shape?
● Can you provide photographic evidence of problem areas?
7. Review the Inspection Report
Once you get the report:
● Read it thoroughly. Look for photos, notes of defects, recommendations.
● Prioritize issues by urgency (e.g., leak risk, structural risk).
● Use the findings to decide next steps: repair now vs monitor vs full replacement.
● If you have multiple bids for repairs, use this report as the baseline.
8. Follow Through on Recommendations
● If repair is needed, get quotes from licensed roofing contractors with good references.
● Ensure any work meets local building code and uses proper materials (especially given South Carolina’s wind/hurricane zone).
● Keep records of inspection report, contractor work, receipts—good for future maintenance and resale.
● Schedule the next inspection (general recommendation every 2-5 years, or after major weather events).
Timing & Cost Considerations
● Cost: A typical residential roof inspection might run from a couple hundred dollars, depending on size, complexity, and extras (like drone or thermal).
● Timing: Ideally inspect once a year or every couple of years, and after major storms or severe weather (winds, hail).
● Be proactive: Rather than waiting for visible leaks, early detection can save thousands in prevented damage.
Why This Matters for Charleston / Lowcountry Region
Given your local region (Charleston, Dorchester, Berkeley Counties) and conditions:
● Coastal & lowcountry homes face high wind loads, salt corrosion, and potential for tropical storms.
● Even if your roof is asphalt shingle (common in the region), you want to ensure wind rating, fastening, and flashing are up to code.
● You may want to work with a company (such as your business Patriot Roofing) that understands local building code, permits, and inspection best practices.
● Proper inspection helps maintain your BBB A+ rating, veteran-owned positioning, and reinforces after-work documentation (great for marketing and customer trust).
Conclusion
Scheduling a roof inspection in South Carolina doesn’t have to be complicated—but doing it right will save money, trouble, and give you peace of mind. By choosing a qualified inspector, preparing ahead, and taking care of recommendations, you’ll be protecting one of your home’s most critical assets: the roof above your head.
Contact Patriot Roofing, Charleston’s Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, and let us show you why we’re the right choice for your home.