Snow Covered Roofs

Do you go back to a property to inspect the roof if it was covered by snow at the time of inspection?
We do if the client/realtor calls us to schedule it. In the past we've returned and thought the snow would've melted, but it hadn't.
So now we require a call to verify that the snow is melted. We have not been charging for the return.
I am curious what other inspectors do. Thanks

We offer Free Snow Plowing as a special USP.

I think you're doing it right, Liz.

The only alternative you might consider is brooms to remove areas of snow for partial visibility during the original inspection.

Nathan wrote:I think you're doing it right, Liz.

The only alternative you might consider is brooms to remove areas of snow for partial visibility during the original inspection.

I tried that, but there is usually an inch or two of ice under the snow...

I will usually go back for free if I like the people

If not, my minimum fee is $119

Fantastic Post!
Like what SheehanThomson posted:

Our roofs are covered with 2 inches of ice and 6-24 inches of snow from December - March it makes roofs difficult.

I try to still ladder to the eves and brush away what I can but the ice layer is always there making my inspection useless.

I explain this to the homeowner and they are always understanding as it is common sense just like a covered foundation I can't inspect what I can't see.

In my report I state: No past, current, or future representation can be made of the roof. It is highly encouraged to call Tri County Home Inspection or a roofing contractor once the roof is clear of snow and ice for a re-inspection.

Last year I think one client called me to re-inspect the roof which I of course did so at no charge.

I try to at least see if it is 3-tab or architectural then I can tell the clientbased on the age of the home what I THINK the age of the roof is. Of course this is always after I say it is my opinion and not fact.

S, would it help to check the county bldg dept website during the winter?

What would I be looking for Pete?

The latest permit date.

wouldn't that help some when discussing a snow-covered roof?

Utah folks don't get permits; HGTV makes them experts.

Pls try sticking to the topic, young man. We are trying to do good here as much as possible.

You asked a question and I gave you a good answer which I thought could help you in your business.

Sarcasm on too many topics is unwarranted.

Not being sarcastic. No ones seriously ever pulls permits in Utah. I'm getting my roof redone tomorrow. I know for a fact no permit is being obtained.

It has gotten to the point where nothing can be done to enforce it. It's like everyone on the higheay is speeding and there's only one cop.

The worst is that most builders here don't finish the basement so homeowners call people on Craigslist who charge cheap labor to finish it.

Result: miswired everything, terrible layouts, improper plumbing, heck I've even seen where a basement finishing company did all the work then realized they forgot HVAC in the basement. No vents in any room. You can't make this stuff up.

The county records do say how much square footage is unfinished vs. finished so when it says 100% unfinished but it is finished when I get there I know they didn't permit anything because the couty would update the %.

SheehanThomson wrote:Not being sarcastic. No ones seriously ever pulls permits in Utah. I'm getting my roof redone tomorrow. I know for a fact no permit is being obtained.

It has gotten to the point where nothing can be done to enforce it. It's like everyone on the higheay is speeding and there's only one cop.

The worst is that most builders here don't finish the basement so homeowners call people on Craigslist who charge cheap labor to finish it.

Result: miswired everything, terrible layouts, improper plumbing, heck I've even seen where a basement finishing company did all the work then realized they forgot HVAC in the basement. No vents in any room. You can't make this stuff up.

The county records do say how much square footage is unfinished vs. finished so when it says 100% unfinished but it is finished when I get there I know they didn't permit anything because the couty would update the %.

Roofs do not require a permit here in Wisconsin.

Really? You cover SLC and say they don't require permits? Or that they do and no contractors bother?