How Long Does a Roof Inspection Take? Complete 2025 Timeline Guide | Myrtle Beach

Why Duration Matters

An inspector who spends only 15-20 minutes on your roof likely isn't checking everything. Conversely, a 4-hour inspection for a simple 1,500 sq ft roof may indicate inexperience or unnecessary padding. Understanding appropriate timelines helps you evaluate whether you're getting a thorough, professional assessment.

Not all roof inspections are created equal. The type you need depends on your situation—annual maintenance, buying a home, filing an insurance claim, or investigating a suspected problem.

1. Basic Visual Inspection (30-45 Minutes)

The quickest option, ideal for routine annual check-ups when no specific problems are suspected.

Limitations: No roof climbing, no attic inspection, no detailed documentation. Won't catch hidden damage, moisture issues, or problems only visible up close.

2. Standard Comprehensive Inspection (1-2 Hours)

The most common professional inspection, suitable for pre-purchase evaluations, post-storm assessments, and thorough annual check-ups.

Includes written report with findings, photos, and repair recommendations with priority ratings.

3. Drone-Assisted Inspection (45-90 Minutes)

Uses unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with high-resolution cameras to capture detailed roof imagery. Increasingly popular for steep, tall, or dangerous-to-access roofs.

Best practice: Combine drone imagery with ground verification. Drones are tools, not complete replacements for hands-on inspection.

4. Insurance/HAAG Certified Inspection (1.5-2.5 Hours)

The gold standard for insurance claims and storm damage assessment. Conducted by HAAG Certified inspectors trained in forensic roof damage analysis.

What's included:

• Complete exterior and interior inspection
• Precise measurements (roof area, slopes, features)
• Extensive photo documentation (50-100+ photos)
• Damage classification and cause identification
• Repair vs. replacement assessment
• Detailed written report meeting insurance standards
• Scope of work for repair/replacement

5. Full Diagnostic Inspection with Moisture/Thermal Imaging (2-3+ Hours)

The most comprehensive option, adding specialized tools to detect hidden problems invisible to the naked eye.

When to request full diagnostic:

• Suspected leaks with no visible source
• Buying a home with an older roof (15+ years)
• Unexplained attic moisture or mold
• High energy bills suggesting insulation problems
• Previous leak repairs to verify effectiveness

Why does the same "comprehensive inspection" take 75 minutes at one house and 2.5 hours at another? These six factors explain the variation.

1. Roof Size (Square Footage)

2. Roof Complexity

Every feature adds inspection time because each is a potential failure point:

A simple gable roof with one slope and no penetrations inspects much faster than a complex hip roof with 3 dormers, 2 skylights, a chimney, and multiple valleys.

3. Roof Accessibility

Access challenges add time—or may require alternative methods:

• Steep pitch (8:12 or higher): Requires safety equipment, slower movement (+20-40 min)
• Limited ground access: Tight lot, no ladder placement options (+10-20 min)
• Height (3+ stories): Extended ladder setup, safety protocols (+15-30 min)
• Landscaping obstacles: Trees, bushes blocking access (+10-15 min)
• Wet/icy conditions: May require drone or postponement

4. Roof Age and Condition

Older roofs and those in poor condition require more careful examination:

5. Inspector Experience Level

Experienced inspectors work more efficiently without sacrificing thoroughness:

• Novice inspectors (1-2 years): May take longer but could miss subtle issues
• Experienced inspectors (5+ years): Efficient process, quick problem recognition
• HAAG Certified specialists: Systematic approach, comprehensive without being slow

6. Documentation Requirements

Different situations require different levels of documentation:

• Verbal summary: Minimal time (+5 min)
• Written report with photos: Moderate (+15-25 min)
• Insurance-ready documentation: Extensive (+30-45 min)
• Legal/litigation documentation: Comprehensive (+45-60 min)

Ever wonder what a thorough inspector is actually looking for? Here's our complete 47-point inspection checklist, developed specifically for Myrtle Beach coastal conditions. For a more detailed breakdown of shingle-specific checks, see our shingle roof inspection checklist.

Drone inspections have exploded in popularity—but are they better? Here's an honest comparison to help you decide.

Our Recommendation: Hybrid Approach

The best inspections combine both methods:

1. Drone aerial pass: Quick overview, identify areas of concern, document overall condition
2. Targeted manual inspection: Physical examination of problem areas, up-close verification
3. Full attic inspection: Interior assessment drones simply can't do
4. Combined report: Aerial imagery + ground-truth findings

Not all roof inspectors are equally qualified. Here's what to look for—and what to avoid.

Essential Qualifications

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

1. "How many years have you been inspecting roofs?" — Look for 5+ years
2. "Are you licensed and insured in South Carolina?" — Verify with SC LLR
3. "Do you hold HAAG certification?" — Critical for insurance inspections
4. "Will you inspect both the exterior and attic?" — Both are essential (see our roof inspection checklist)
5. "What's included in the written report?" — Photos, findings, recommendations
6. "Do you have coastal/hurricane assessment experience?" — Important for Myrtle Beach

Verify Credentials

• SC Contractor License: SC LLR License Verification
• HAAG Certification: HAAG Inspector Locator
• BBB Rating: Better Business Bureau
• Google Reviews: Look for 4.5+ stars with substantial review count

The right inspection frequency depends on your roof's age, location, and recent weather events.

Inspection Triggers: When to Inspect Immediately

Age-Based Inspection Schedule

Myrtle Beach presents unique challenges that generic inspection guides miss. Here's what coastal homeowners need to know.

Salt Air Corrosion Checks

Properties within 2 miles of the ocean face accelerated corrosion:

• Galvanized steel: Corrodes 5-10x faster near coast
• Aluminum flashing: More resistant but still affected
• Stainless steel fasteners: Required within salt spray zone
• Copper: Develops patina but maintains integrity

Inspectors should check for white powdery residue (salt deposits), rust staining below metal components, and pitting on metal surfaces.

Hurricane Preparedness Assessment

A Myrtle Beach-specific inspection should evaluate hurricane readiness:

Humidity and Ventilation

Myrtle Beach's 75%+ average humidity creates unique challenges:

• Attic moisture: Higher risk of condensation and mold
• Ventilation requirements: 1:150 ratio minimum (vs. 1:300 inland)
• Wood moisture content: Should be under 19% in decking
• Insulation degradation: Humidity reduces R-value over time

Post-Storm Inspection Protocol

After tropical weather, timing matters:

Don't wait for a leak to discover hidden roof problems. A professional roof inspection now can identify issues before they become expensive emergencies—and give you peace of mind heading into hurricane season.