Roof and Gutter Annual Inspection

19 items · Home · Medium difficulty · 1 hour

Annual roof and gutter inspection checklist to prevent leaks and extend roof life.

• Survey roof and gutter area from the ground

  Note sagging gutters, loose tiles, heavy vegetation, or obvious damage.

• Set up ladder safely

  Place ladder on firm ground and extend 3 rungs above the eave.

• Position ladder at a 75-degree angle

  Measure: base distance ≈ 1/4 of ladder height; test stability before climbing.

• Secure ladder base and top and use non-slip feet

  Tie-off top or use a stabilizer; avoid soft or icy ground.

• Have a spotter and wear gloves, safety glasses, and non-slip shoes

  A spotter improves safety; PPE protects from sharp debris and chemicals.

• Inspect gutters for blockages, rust, and leaks
• Remove leaves, twigs, and nests

  Use a gloved hand or scoop; place debris in a bucket to avoid mess.

• Flush gutters and downspouts with a hose to check flow

  Start near the far end and watch for leaks or slow drains.

• Check gutter slope, hangers, and seams for sagging or leaks

  Ensure gutters slope toward outlets and replace damaged hangers.

• Inspect downpipes and outlets for clogs and proper discharge

  Ensure water discharges away from foundation and splash blocks are in place.

• Check roof tiles, shingles, and seams for cracks or lifting

  Look for broken, missing or lifted pieces and loose nails.

• Inspect chimney flashing and roof penetrations for gaps

  Look for cracked flashing, missing sealant, or corrosion around vents.

• Probe for soft spots and check underlayment/felt condition

  Avoid walking on soft areas; note any water-damaged or exposed felt.

• Clear and treat moss, algae, and lichen

  Brush off loose growth and apply a roof-safe treatment per product instructions.

• Inspect valleys, vents, skylights, and plumbing stacks

  Check seals and flashing around all roof penetrations for gaps or wear.

• Check interior attic and ceilings for signs of leaks

  Look for stains, damp insulation, mold, and daylight through the roof.

• Document issues and take clear photos

  Timestamp photos and note exact locations to aid quotes and repairs.

• Decide when to call a professional roofer

  Call if roof is steep, has soft spots, extensive damage, or persistent leaks.

• Schedule professional inspection or repairs

  Obtain written quotes and verify licenses, insurance, and warranties.

Printed from TickYouOff — the interactive version tracks your progress and can be shared with others.