5 Reasons Why Home Inspectors Shouldn’t Walk on Roofs

Walking on roofs during a home inspection might sound like the “thorough” thing to do—but in many cases, it’s not just unnecessary. It’s a liability.

Here’s why home inspectors should think twice before setting foot on a roof.

1. Roofing Materials Aren’t Made for Foot Traffic

Most residential roofing systems aren’t built to support people walking on them. The risk of causing damage is high—especially on certain materials:

  • Asphalt shingles: Granules can rub off under foot, reducing the roof’s UV protection and lifespan. Shingles can also tear or lift, leading to leaks.
    Source: National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)
  • Clay or slate tiles: These are brittle and often crack or break when walked on—even with proper footwear.
    Source: Journal of Architectural Engineering, ASCE
  • Metal roofing: While durable, metal roofs can dent or scratch easily. Damaging the protective coating can accelerate corrosion.
    Source: Metal Roofing Alliance

Even synthetic or composite roofing can be affected by heat, softening the surface and making it more susceptible to scuffing or deformation.

2. Damage Isn’t Always Immediate—But It Can Be Costly

Roof damage caused by foot traffic doesn’t always show up right away. Cracked tiles, loosened shingles, and punctures might not leak until after a heavy rain or snow melt. It might not even be detectable until years later when big problems start to show up. At that point, repair costs can stack up fast.

A home inspector’s job is to report on existing issues—not to cause new ones.

3. There Are Safer, Better Tools

Drones, high-zoom cameras, and even binoculars let inspectors perform a full roof evaluation without stepping on a single shingle.

Drones in particular provide:

  • High-resolution images of the entire roof system
  • Access to steep or unsafe areas
  • Detailed views of flashing, valleys, vents, and more

This method is not only safer for the inspector—it eliminates the risk of causing damage while still delivering the information clients need.

4. Professional Standards Don’t Require It

According to the InterNACHI Standards of Practice, inspectors are not required to walk on roofs. They are instructed to inspect the roof from the ground, from the eaves, or using remote tools—when safe and accessible (InterNACHI SOP, Section 3.1).

The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) offers similar guidance, emphasizing safety and accessibility over physical contact with roof surfaces.

5. It’s a Safety Risk

Beyond damage, walking on roofs poses a serious safety risk—especially on:

  • Wet or icy surfaces
  • Steep pitches
  • Roofs with hidden weak spots, such as rot or poorly supported decking

Falls from roofs are one of the leading causes of injury in the construction and inspection industries. No inspection finding is worth that kind of risk.

Bottom Line

Roof inspections don’t require walking on the roof. In fact, in most cases, they shouldn’t. The best inspectors use the right tools, follow the standards, and protect the property while doing the job right. 

If you’re hiring a home inspector, ask how they inspect the roof. If they brag about walking every one, you might want to keep looking.

Schedule Your Roof-Safe Inspection

If you’re buying, selling, or maintaining your home and want a thorough inspection without the risk of unnecessary damage, Pine Point Property Inspections is here. Schedule your inspection online or give us a call at (651) 383-5252.

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