What a Roof Inspection Covers
A roof inspection from North Bay Roofing CO is a full top-to-bottom review of your roofing system. We check shingles for curling, cracking, or granule loss—those tiny asphalt bits that end up in your gutters are a sure sign of end-of-life wear. We look at flashings around chimneys and skylights, where water loves to seep in. We examine the decking for rot and sag, especially in low-slope areas that stay damp. We even check your attic for signs of moisture wicking along rafters or stains that mean a slow leak.
We use a checklist that covers every component: starter course, field courses, staggered courses, ridge caps, pipe boots, and drip edge. We note any exposed fastener or overdriven nail that could compromise the roof's integrity. If we spot a problem, we don't just tell you it's bad—we show you photos and explain what's happening and why. That's the honest approach we've used since 2005.
When You Need a Roof Inspection
You need a roof inspection after any major storm—Marin County gets heavy winter rains from Pacific storms, and wind can lift shingles or drive water under the edges. You also need one if you notice a leak, a musty smell in the attic, or shingles in the yard. But even without obvious signs, an annual inspection catches small issues before they become big ones. A tiny crack today can become a split that lets water pour in next season.
We also recommend a pre-purchase inspection if you're buying a home in Novato, especially in older neighborhoods like Ignacio or Black Point where roofs may be original. Knowing the condition of the roof before you sign saves you surprises. And if you're planning to sell, a clean inspection report is a strong selling point.
How Our Roof Inspection Process Works
Here's what happens when you book with us. We arrive on time, introduce ourselves, and start with a ground-level look using binoculars—checking for obvious issues like sagging or missing shingles. Then we get on the roof. We walk every plane, feeling for soft spots underfoot that indicate decking rot. We inspect all flashings, checking that they're sealed and tight. We pull back loose shingles to see if the underlayment is intact. We use a moisture meter on suspicious areas to confirm water intrusion before it causes structural damage.
After the roof, we check the attic for ventilation and signs of condensation or leaks. We look at the condition of the insulation and check for daylight coming through the roof deck. Then we sit down with you and walk through our findings. You get a written report with photos, a clear list of any issues, and our honest recommendation on whether you need a repair, a recover, or a full tear-off. No pressure, no scare tactics—just facts.
What a Roof Inspection Costs
Our standard roof inspection is free with no strings attached. That's right—we don't charge for the first visit. We want you to know exactly what your roof needs, whether or not you hire us. If you need a more detailed inspection for insurance purposes or a real estate transaction, we offer a paid inspection with a formal report for a flat fee. That report includes detailed photos, measurements, and a written assessment that meets most lender and insurer requirements.
For most homeowners, the free inspection is all you need. We'll tell you if there's a problem and give you an honest estimate to fix it. If the roof is fine, we'll say so. That's how we build trust—by telling you the truth, even when it means we don't make a sale today.
Why Choose North Bay Roofing CO
We've been serving Novato since 2005, and we know Marin County roofs. We understand the foggy mornings that leave moisture on your roof well into the afternoon, and the hot, dry summers that bake the shingles. We know which materials hold up in this climate and which ones don't. We use only top-tier products from GAF and CertainTeed, and we back our work with real warranties.
We're licensed and insured, and we stand behind every inspection we perform. If we miss something, we'll make it right. Our goal is simple: help you keep your home safe and dry. Whether you need a minor repair or a full replacement, we'll give you a straight answer and a fair price.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a roof inspection take?
A roof inspection typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and complexity of your roof. We take our time to be thorough, because missing a small issue can lead to bigger problems later.
Do I need to be home for the inspection?
It's helpful if you're home for the last 15 minutes so we can walk you through our findings. But if you can't be there, we'll leave a detailed report and call you to discuss everything.
What if the inspection finds a problem?
We'll explain the issue clearly, show you photos, and give you a written estimate for the repair. There's no obligation to hire us, but if you do, we'll schedule the work at your convenience.
