Many roof problems show up inside the house before anyone notices them on the roof. You do not need a ladder for this checklist. Walk through the house once or twice a year, and after heavy storms.
Not sure what shape your roof is in?
Free inspection scheduled within 24 hours. Free, with photos you keep.
Top-floor ceilings
Walls
Closets and rarely used rooms
Leaks often go unnoticed in closets, guest rooms and bonus rooms, because nobody looks up there. Check the ceilings in each one.
Around the chimney and fireplace
Water stains on the wall or ceiling around a chimney usually mean failed flashing where the chimney meets the roof.
The attic
On a bright day, with a flashlight:
Smells and air
What to do if you find something
Take a photo, note where it is and when you first noticed it, and look for a pattern, such as whether it appears only after heavy rain or wind from one direction. Then have a roofer find where the water gets in. The stain inside is often several feet from the actual entry point.
If it followed a storm, it may be covered by insurance, so document it before anything is repaired.
For the outside of the house, see our DIY roof inspection checklist page. Or call (855) 741-ROOF and we will inspect both for free.