What Is a Roof Certification and Why Do I Need One?
Selling your home is a process that involves a lot of choices. From investing in presale upgrades to selecting a realtor, it can be overwhelming and stressful. To lessen your stress load, you will want to be sure you only take on projects that increase your home’s likelihood of selling. One of these projects is obtaining a roof certification.
What Is a Roof Certification?
A roof certification is the formal documentation of the condition of your roof and an estimate of how many years it has left. It is not a guarantee or a warranty, but rather the opinion of a qualified roofer about the roof’s condition and life expectancy.
There are various types of certifications. Some are more detailed, while others are more of a general statement of the roof’s condition. In some instances, the roofer certifying your roof will assume care of it in the event that repairs are needed after the certification.
Why Do I Need a Roof Certification?
1. Typical Home Inspections Don’t Include Your Roof
While your home will be thoroughly inspected prior to selling, this process typically does not involve your roof. Home inspectors may look for issues they can spot from the ground, such as loose shingles or mildew. But a roofing contractor will actually go up on the roof and perform a detailed inspection specifically for the roof certification.
2. Certifications Give Buyers Peace of Mind
Roofing repairs can be costly and inconvenient. Most home buyers will not be interested in undertaking large renovations upon move-in. A roof certification offers peace of mind in knowing that the roof is in good shape and will not need to be addressed for many years to come. Ultimately, if a potential buyer is choosing between two homes, the roof certification may be the deciding factor.
3. It May Be Required by the Lender
Furthermore, many lenders are now requiring roof certifications prior to releasing funds to a buyer. In the case that it is not required, the buyer may still choose to pay for the inspection themselves and make any necessary repairs a contingency of the sales contract.
What Happens During a Roof Certification?
An inspector will evaluate your roof from the inside and outside of your home. He or she will take several photographs and carefully document any repairs needed in order for the roof to be certified. Specifically, the roofing contractor will note the following:
- The type of roof and materials (asphalt shingles, metal, shake, etc.)
- Any previous repairs
- The age of the roof
- The number of layers of the roof
- The pitch of the roof
- Any signs of damage
- Any recommended repairs
If no issues are found, the certification document can be completed in as little as one day. The final document is usually valid from between 2-5 years.
How Do I Obtain a Roof Certification?
Look for a licensed, local roofer with excellent online reviews. Let the roofer know you are trying to sell your home and would like to schedule a roof certification. Remember that this is different from a roof inspection, and will incur a fee to account for the roofer’s time and expertise. You may ask the roofer for an estimate on the cost.
Does J&K Roofing Perform Roof Certifications?
Yes, we do! If you are looking to sell your home in the Denver Metro, Front Range, Colorado Springs, or Northern Colorado regions, give us a call to schedule your certification. We will be happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.