Home Services
Roof Inspection: What It Costs and When You Need One
Published September 24, 2026 · Last updated September 30, 2026
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The short answer
A roof inspection costs about $252 on average, with most between $125 and $383. Steep or hard-to-reach roofs that need a drone or infrared inspection can cost more.
An inspection tells you how much life your roof has left, finds small problems before they become leaks, and can matter a lot for insurance and for selling a home.
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What a roof inspection costs
Price range
- Average: about $252
- Typical range: $125 to $383
- Full range: $75 to $1,150
- Drone or infrared inspections: about 2 to 6 times the cost of a standard physical inspection
- Attic inspection add-on: $200 to $500
- Roof certification (often for home sales): $150 to $200
Not a quote or an offer. Your price comes from the inspector. Source: Angi, 2026.
What moves the number
- Roof size and pitch. Bigger and steeper roofs take longer.
- Material. Slate and tile need specialized expertise.
- Access. Hard-to-reach roofs may need a drone or infrared scan.
- Extras, like an attic check or a written certification.
Some roofing contractors offer free inspections. Just know they may also be hoping to sell you a repair or a new roof.
When to get a roof inspection
- After a major storm, especially hail or high wind. See hail damage on your roof.
- When buying a home. The general home inspection may not include a close look at the roof.
- When selling. A roof certification can reassure buyers.
- When your roof is getting older, to plan ahead for replacement.
- When you see signs of trouble, like water stains on the ceiling or missing shingles.
- When your insurer asks. Some insurers inspect roofs before writing or renewing a policy.
What roof inspectors check
- Shingles or other roof covering: missing, cracked, curled, or worn
- Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Gutters and drainage
- Signs of leaks or rot, including in the attic if included
- Vents and ventilation
- Storm damage, like hail dents or lifted shingles
Roof inspections and insurance
Your roof's condition can affect your homeowners insurance:
- Insurers may inspect your roof when you apply, and may charge more or decline coverage based on what they find.
- Insurance won't pay for a new roof just because it's old or worn out. It pays for damage from a covered event, like a storm.
- In Florida, if your roof is 15 years or older, you can have it inspected. If it shows at least 5 more years of useful life, an insurer can't refuse you just because of its age. See Florida homeowners insurance.
What to ask
- "Is this a physical inspection, drone, or infrared?"
- "Will you check the attic too?"
- "Will I get a written report with photos?"
- "How many years do you think this roof has left?"
- "Do you also do repairs?" If yes, get a second opinion on any big repair.
The catch: a free inspection from a company that also sells roofs isn't independent. For a big decision, like a claim or a full replacement, consider paying for an inspection from someone who won't do the work.
Keep reading
Found damage? See roof repair or roof replacement.
More roofing guides: Roof replacement cost · Roof repair · Metal roofs · Hail damage · How to compare roofing estimates · How to measure your roof · Roof calculator
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