A property with a leaking roof might hinder finding a buyer. Before closing on your new house, be sure that any roof concerns have been resolved. But a home needing a new roof should not be a deal-breaker, but it's something to think about.

Depending on the roofing material and quality of the installation, you should replace a home’s roof every 20 to 25 years. Roof replacement is unavoidable for any homeowner who plans to remain in their house for more than 15 years, no matter how modest the repairs may be. When purchasing a property older than 25 years, most purchasers will need to have the roof replaced if it hasn't already.

If the roof needs to be replaced on the house, you are buying it, and it is best to do it at the closing table. This is the most cost-effective alternative for your family since the property is uninhabited and your things are safe.

Requesting for a Roof Inspection

When buying any home, the buyer should request a complete roof inspection by a reputable roofing contractor, especially for those houses built before 1985. You will also want to know if the roof is made of a single layer of shingles or two or even three layers. Also, make sure to ask if there are any leaks or if there are signs that a leak might surge soon. 

After the roof inspection, you will be able to discuss roof replacement options with the seller and the seller's roofing contractor. The seller may have already had a roof replacement, and they will want to determine if they should replace the roof again within the next ten years.

Structural Integrity

Structural integrity is crucial to the safety of your family. This is a requirement to have a new roof installed in any house. It is paramount to determine the overall structural integrity of a property before closing the deal. The roof must support the family's weight and even potential snow accumulation. 

Talk to a local homeowner who has had a roof replacement and ask if they would recommend the same contractor. A reputable roofing contractor will be able to estimate the cost of replacement and maintenance. They will also be able to provide a list of references from previous customers.

What Will Happen If the Home Fails a Roof Inspection?

First, you need to decide if the existing policy will cover the roof. Home insurance policies will cover the costs of new roofs but only if the wood underneath the shingles is considered in good condition. This ensures that the replacement will not have to be done again soon.

If the old roof is replaced, make sure that this is included in the purchase price. If it isn't, you need to negotiate a price adjustment from the seller. As a home buyer, the roof should not be an afterthought. Without a roof replacement, the property’s value may decrease, and roof replacements are expensive.

Conclusion

Homebuyers should be at least aware that a roof replacement is inevitable. To maximize their home's value and potential to attract more buyers, they need to understand when a home will require a new roof. If you buy a property, it's best to be aware of its previous maintenance history and the property’s value to determine its potential for reselling and know if you need to get a new roof.

Do you need the services of roofing contractors in Wilmington, NC? To Serve Contracting has been in the roofing business for more than a decade and is local to the communities we serve. We provide high-quality roofing installation services such as roof repair, roof replacement, and storm damage restoration. Contact us right now.