Calgary Roof Inspection Guide: Free Inspections, Costs & Comprehensive Checklist

A professional roof inspection can save Calgary homeowners thousands in unexpected repair costs. After conducting over 1,500 roof inspections across Calgary, Airdrie, and Cochrane, I’ve learned that most homeowners don’t know when, why, or how often they should have their roof inspected. Here’s everything you need to know about roof inspections in Calgary.

When You Need a Calgary Roof Inspection

Mandatory Inspection Situations

• After every hailstorm (Calgary averages 3-4 significant hail events annually)
• Before buying a home (pre-purchase inspections)
• After severe wind events (chinooks over 80 km/h)
• Annual maintenance (recommended for all Calgary homes)
• Before selling your home (identify issues before listing)
• Insurance claims (required for damage documentation)

Signs Your Calgary Roof Needs Immediate Inspection

• Interior water stains on ceilings or walls
• Missing or damaged shingles visible from ground
• Granule accumulation in gutters or around foundation
• Sagging rooflines or visible structural changes
• Ice dam formation during winter months
• Age concerns (roofs over 15 years in Calgary climate)

Calgary Roof Inspection Costs (2025)

Understanding inspection pricing helps you budget and avoid overcharging:

Free Roof Inspections in Calgary

When They’re Truly Free:

• Storm damage assessments (after hail or wind events)
• Insurance claim evaluations (when filing claims)
• Maintenance inspections (from your roofing contractor)
• Pre-estimate evaluations (when considering roof work)

When There Are Costs:

• Pre-purchase inspections: $399 (comprehensive report)
• Insurance claim reports: $299 (insurance-approved documentation)
• Detailed structural assessments: $400 - $700
• Expert witness evaluations: $500 - $1,000+

Professional Inspection Fees

• Basic visual inspection: $200 - $450 (market rate)
• Written insurance report: $299 (industry standard)
• Real estate inspection report: $399 (comprehensive)
• Infrared/thermal imaging: $400 - $600
• Drone inspection: Included in most professional assessments
• Structural engineering assessment: $800 - $1,500

What’s Included in Different Inspection Types

Free Maintenance Inspections Include:

• Visual assessment of roof condition
• Basic damage identification
• Maintenance recommendations
• Safety hazard identification

Paid Professional Inspections Include:

• Detailed written report with photos
• 4K drone footage and analysis
• Roof condition rating with measurements
• Estimated remaining lifespan
• Prioritized repair recommendations with cost estimates
• Code compliance assessment
• Insurance-approved documentation

Comprehensive Calgary Roof Inspection Checklist

Exterior Roof Assessment

Shingle Condition Evaluation:

• Granule loss: Calgary’s UV exposure and hail damage
• Cracking or splitting: Freeze-thaw cycle damage
• Curling or cupping: Age and thermal stress indicators
• Missing shingles: Wind or storm damage
• Exposed nail heads: Installation or weather issues

Flashing Inspection:

• Chimney flashing: Common leak source in Calgary homes
• Vent penetrations: Bathroom and kitchen vents
• Valley flashing: Critical in Calgary’s snow load areas
• Drip edge: Ice dam prevention component
• Step flashing: Along walls and dormers

Structural Components:

• Gutters and downspouts: Calgary’s freeze-thaw damage
• Fascia and soffit: Wind and moisture damage assessment
• Roof deck condition: Visible sagging or damage
• Ventilation systems: Ridge vents, soffit vents, power vents
• Insulation adequacy: Energy efficiency and ice dam prevention

Interior Inspection Points

Attic Assessment:

• Insulation levels: Calgary requires higher R-values
• Vapor barrier condition: Moisture control in extreme climates
• Ventilation airflow: Prevents ice dams and moisture issues
• Structural integrity: Rafters, trusses, decking condition
• Pest or wildlife entry: Common in Calgary area homes

Interior Leak Detection:

• Water stains: Ceilings, walls, around penetrations
• Mold or mildew: Moisture infiltration indicators
• Paint bubbling: Hidden water damage signs
• Electrical safety: Water near fixtures or wiring

Calgary-Specific Inspection Considerations

Hail Damage Assessment

Calgary’s hail seasons require specialized inspection techniques:

Visible Hail Damage:

• Impact marks: Granule loss in circular patterns
• Exposed mat: Black spots where granules are missing
• Cracked shingles: Immediate replacement needed
• Bruising: Soft spots indicating compromised shingles

Hidden Hail Damage:

• Accelerated aging: Shorter lifespan even without immediate leaks
• Subtle granule loss: Requires trained eye to identify
• Flashing damage: Dents in metal components
• Gutter damage: Often overlooked but affects drainage

Ice Dam Prevention Assessment

Calgary’s winter conditions make ice dam evaluation critical:

Risk Factors Inspectors Check:

• Insulation adequacy: R-60+ recommended for Calgary
• Air sealing: Prevents warm air entering attic space
• Ventilation balance: Intake and exhaust requirements
• Heat loss patterns: Infrared imaging reveals problem areas

Chinook Wind Damage Evaluation

Calgary’s unique chinook winds create specific damage patterns:

Wind Uplift Damage:

• Shingle lifting: Edges or corners raised by wind
• Fastener failure: Nails backing out or missing
• Flashing displacement: Metal components shifted
• Debris impact: Tree branches or airborne objects

When to Schedule Calgary Roof Inspections

Optimal Timing Throughout the Year

Spring Inspections (April-May)

• Post-winter assessment: Ice dam and snow load damage
• Pre-hail season: Address vulnerabilities before storm season
• Insurance preparation: Document pre-existing conditions
• Maintenance planning: Identify repairs before busy season

Fall Inspections (September-October)

• Post-hail season: Assess summer storm damage
• Winter preparation: Ensure roof is ready for snow load
• Pre-sale inspections: Best time for real estate transactions
• Annual maintenance: Ideal weather for thorough assessment

Storm Response Inspections

• Within 48 hours: After significant hail events
• After chinook winds: When gusts exceed 80 km/h
• Following heavy snow: After loads over 40 lbs/sq ft
• Immediate response: For any suspected damage

Age-Based Inspection Frequency

New Roofs (0-5 years):

• Annual basic inspection: Catch warranty issues early
• Post-storm assessment: Document any damage immediately
• Pre-winter check: Ensure proper installation performance

Mature Roofs (5-15 years):

• Bi-annual inspections: Spring and fall assessments
• Enhanced storm monitoring: More vulnerable to damage
• Maintenance planning: Proactive repair scheduling

Aging Roofs (15+ years):

• Quarterly inspections: Seasonal condition monitoring
• Professional assessments: Annual detailed evaluations
• Replacement planning: Budget for inevitable replacement

Free vs. Professional Roof Inspections

When Free Inspections Are Appropriate

• Regular maintenance: Annual contractor check-ups
• Storm damage: Initial damage assessment
• General condition: Basic visual evaluation
• Repair estimates: When considering roof work

When Professional Inspections Are Worth the Cost

• Home purchases: Protect your investment
• Insurance disputes: Objective third-party assessment
• Structural concerns: Engineering-level evaluation
• Legal matters: Expert witness documentation
• Historic homes: Specialized knowledge required

Choosing Calgary Roof Inspection Services

Credentials to Look For

• Alberta contractor licensing: Valid WCB and business license
• Insurance certification: Liability and worker’s compensation
• Manufacturer certifications: GAF, IKO, or other major brands
• Professional memberships: Better Business Bureau, local associations
• Haag Certification: Industry-standard inspector training

Red Flags to Avoid

• Door-to-door solicitation: Especially after storms
• Pressure for immediate decisions: Legitimate inspections provide time
• Cash-only payments: Professional services offer payment options
• No written reports: Proper inspections include documentation
• Unlicensed operators: Verify credentials before allowing roof access

What Happens After Your Calgary Roof Inspection

Immediate Results

• Safety hazards: Immediate notification of dangerous conditions
• Emergency repairs: Urgent issues requiring rapid response
• Obvious damage: Clear problems visible during inspection
• Initial recommendations: Priority repair identification

Detailed Reporting

Professional Report Contents:

• Photo documentation: Before and after comparison images
• Condition ratings: Overall roof and component grades
• Repair priorities: Immediate, short-term, and long-term needs
• Cost estimates: Ballpark figures for identified issues
• Maintenance schedule: Ongoing care recommendations

Insurance Considerations

• Claim documentation: Proper evidence for insurance filing
• Pre-loss condition: Baseline for future claim comparisons
• Code compliance: Current standard adherence verification
• Warranty validation: Manufacturer requirement compliance

Calgary Roof Inspection Benefits

Financial Protection

• Early problem detection: Minor repairs vs. major replacements
• Insurance claim support: Proper documentation for successful claims
• Home value maintenance: Well-maintained roofs protect property values
• Energy efficiency: Proper insulation and ventilation assessment

Safety Assurance

• Structural integrity: Identify load-bearing concerns before failure
• Water damage prevention: Stop leaks before interior damage
• Fire safety: Electrical and ventilation safety verification
• Weather preparedness: Ensure roof can handle Calgary’s extremes

Right To The Peak Roof Inspection Services

Our Calgary Inspection Credentials

• 1,500+ inspections completed across Calgary and area
• Certified inspectors: Haag-certified and manufacturer-trained
• Insurance partnerships: Direct relationships with major insurers
• Local expertise: Deep understanding of Calgary’s unique challenges

What We Provide

Free Inspections Include:

• Comprehensive visual assessment
• Digital photo documentation
• Immediate safety concern notification
• Basic maintenance recommendations
• Insurance claim support

Professional Inspections Include:

• Detailed written report with photos
• Thermal imaging when needed
• Structural assessment
• Code compliance verification
• Prioritized repair timeline with cost estimates

Service Areas

• Calgary: All quadrants and communities
• Airdrie: Complete coverage
• Cochrane: Full service area
• Okotoks: Residential and commercial
• Chestermere: All neighborhoods
• Strathmore: Extended service area

Schedule Your Calgary Roof Inspection

Free Inspection Eligibility

Contact us for a free inspection if you:

• Experienced recent hail or wind damage
• Are considering roof repairs or replacement
• Need annual maintenance assessment
• Require insurance claim documentation

How to Schedule

• Phone: (587) 224-6494
• Online: Request Free Inspection
• Emergency: 24/7 availability for storm damage
• Response Time: Same-day scheduling in most cases

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Protect your Calgary home with regular professional roof inspections. Contact Right To The Peak Roofing at (587) 224-6494 or schedule your free inspection online. Don’t wait for problems to become expensive emergencies.