A small roof issue is almost always cheaper to fix than a big one. The problem is that roofs hide their damage well—until water shows up on drywall.
This checklist gives you a simple way to spot early warning signs before leaks start. You can do most of it from the ground with a phone camera and binoculars. If your roof is steep, high, or slippery—don’t climb it.
How often should you inspect your roof?
- Twice per year: once before the rainy season and once after.
- After major weather: wind events, fallen branches, or heavy rain.
- Any time you notice symptoms: stains, musty attic smell, or gutter overflow.
Exterior roof checklist (ground-level)
1) Shingles and roof surface
- Missing, cracked, or sliding shingles
- Curling edges, “fish-mouthing,” or lifted corners
- Granules collecting at downspout outlets (a sign of wear)
- Dark streaks, algae, or moss in shaded areas
2) Ridges, hips, and caps
- Loose ridge caps or exposed nail heads
- Gaps at ridge vent sections
- Uneven lines that suggest movement or deteriorated fasteners
3) Valleys and transitions
- Debris buildup in valleys (leaves, needles, roof grit)
- Worn areas where water concentrates
- Any visible metal valley with corrosion or separation
4) Flashing and penetrations
Many leaks start at details—not the shingle field.
- Plumbing vent boots: cracked rubber, gaps, or lifted edges
- Wall flashings: staining at siding/roof lines
- Chimneys: missing counter flashing, cracked mortar, rust
- Skylights: damaged glazing, gaps, or stained curb edges
5) Gutters and drainage
- Overflow marks on fascia or siding
- Gutters pulling away from the roofline
- Downspouts dumping right at the foundation
- Pooling water at walkways or landscaping after rain
Interior checklist (attic + ceilings)
6) Ceiling clues
- Brown rings or bubbling paint
- Stains that grow after storms
- Peeling tape on ceiling corners
7) Attic clues
- Dark staining on roof decking (localized = likely leak)
- Rusty nail tips, damp insulation, or musty odor
- Visible daylight where it shouldn’t be (gaps at penetrations)
- Bathroom/kitchen fans venting into the attic (condensation risk)
Quick “what it might mean” guide
| What you see | What it may indicate |
|---|---|
| Overflowing gutters in heavy rain | Clogs, undersizing, poor slope, or not enough downspouts |
| Stains near a chimney | Flashing or counter flashing failure |
| Water stain far from an exterior wall | Leak traveling along framing (often valleys or vents) |
| Moldy attic, but no storm-related staining | Ventilation/condensation problem |
When to call a pro immediately
- Active dripping or fast-growing interior stains
- Soft spots, sagging lines, or spongy decking
- Multiple leak areas or repeated repairs in the same season
- Any roof safety concerns (steep, high, fragile materials)
Next step
If you found warning signs, start with a documented inspection. We can confirm whether you need a targeted roof repair, drainage work via gutters & downspouts, or a bigger plan. If you want help now, request an inspection.