Roof Inspection Checklist: What Homebuyers in DeSoto County Should Know
Buying a home in Southaven, Olive Branch, Hernando, Horn Lake, or Walls? A thorough roof inspection can save you thousands down the road. Use this easy-to-follow checklist to make sure your potential new home’s roof is in great shape before you close.
Why a Roof Inspection Matters in DeSoto County
Our Mississippi climate—hot, humid summers and occasional severe storms—puts roofs to the test. A small leak left unchecked can lead to rot, mold, and structural damage. As a homebuyer, you want confidence that you’re not inheriting major repairs. A targeted roof inspection will:
Reveal hidden damage from storms, age, or wildlife
Point out maintenance tasks you can negotiate into your offer
Help you budget for future repairs or replacements
1. Check the Age and Material of the Roof
Asphalt Shingles: Most DeSoto County builders use 25- to 30-year architectural shingles. If the home is 15+ years old, factor in a replacement within your first 10 years of ownership.
Metal Roofing: Lifespan often exceeds 40 years but can suffer dents or seal failures over time. Look for rust or loose fasteners.
Other Materials: Tile, slate, and synthetic composites are rarer here but warrant specialized inspection.
What to Ask: Request documentation of the original installation date and any past repairs.
2. Inspect Shingle Condition and Alignment
Curling or Buckling: Edges that lift are a sign of advanced wear and can allow wind-driven rain underneath.
Granule Loss: Excessive grit in gutters or downspouts indicates shingle aging. Without their protective granules, shingles degrade faster.
Missing or Damaged Shingles: Even a few blown-off shingles after a Southaven storm can expose your roof deck.
Tip: Bring a ladder and binoculars for an initial, safe look. Highlight any suspect areas for your professional inspector.
3. Examine Flashing and Sealants
Valleys & Ridges: These high-stress areas collect water. Look for cracked or lifted flashing—alloys corrode, and sealant can fail.
Chimney and Skylight Seals: Gaps around flashing or deteriorated caulking can lead to leaks directly over living spaces.
Pipe Boots: Rubber collars around vent pipes dry-rot over time; check for splits or gaps.
4. Assess Gutters, Downspouts & Drainage
Clogged Gutters: Leaves and granules block flow, causing water to back up under your shingles and rot fascia boards.
Secure Fastening: Gutters must be firmly attached; loose sections can pull on your roof edge and tear shingles.
Downspout Discharge: Ensure water is directed at least 4–6 feet from the foundation—especially important in low-lying Hernando neighborhoods.
Local Insight: If the home backs up to a wooded lot, plan to schedule gutter cleaning at least twice a year in Olive Branch and Southaven.
5. Look for Signs of Previous Leaks Inside
Ceiling Stains: Brown or yellow patches on ceilings in upstairs rooms or attic indicate past leaks.
Attic Inspection: In Horn Lake’s older homes, check rafters and decking for water stains, mold, or soft spots.
Insulation Condition: Wet or matted insulation loses R-value; damp spots may still be hidden above walls.
6. Evaluate Roof Structure and Ventilation
Sagging or Uneven Roofline: Slight dips suggest decking or support issues. Avoid bidding on homes with visible sag until you have an engineer’s report.
Ridge and Soffit Vents: Proper airflow prevents heat buildup in summer and condensation in winter—key for homes in Walls with little shade.
Exhaust Fans and Chimneys: Ensure kitchen and bathroom vents vent through the roof correctly, not just into the attic.
7. Review Past Maintenance and Repair Records
Service Logs: A well-maintained roof often comes with invoices for gutter cleaning, sealant refreshes, or minor shingle repairs.
Warranty Transfers: Some shingle and metal roofing warranties are transferable—ask the seller to provide paperwork.
Professional Inspections: If the seller had a roofer inspect or tune-up the roof recently, get a copy of that report.
8. Get a Professional, Certified Inspection
While your own walkthrough catches obvious issues, always hire an IICRC-certified roof inspector or a licensed roofing contractor like A Final Touch. They’ll:
Use moisture meters and infrared cameras to find hidden leaks
Evaluate structural integrity under load
Provide a detailed, written report with repair cost estimates
Negotiating Based on Inspection Findings
Once you have your inspection report:
Repair Credit: Ask the seller to cover minor repairs—like replacing a dozen shingles or re-caulking flashing—before closing.
Price Reduction: For major work (deck replacement, structural fixes), negotiate a price adjustment that reflects bids from local DeSoto County roofing contractors.
Escrow Holdback: Hold back funds in escrow to ensure repairs are completed post-closing.
Final Thoughts
A roof is one of the most expensive components of any home. By using this checklist and investing in a professional inspection, you’ll step into your Southaven, Olive Branch, Hernando, Horn Lake, or Walls home with confidence—knowing your investment is sound and leak-free for years to come.
Ready to learn more? Reach out to A Final Touch for a pre-purchase roof inspection or replacement if needed, or any questions about maintaining your new home’s most vital shield. Learn more about our roofing services here.