According to commercial roofing companies, roof certifications can be a blessing depending on the housing market in which you’re operating. At the very least, a roofing certification can give you a good idea of your roof’s condition so you can keep your home protected and rest easy during the next big storm.

What Is A Roof Certification?

A roof certification is a piece of paper that certifies your roof is good for a given amount of time, usually about three years, from the date of issuance. While it is by no means a binding document, roofing inspectors will not issue a roof certification on a damaged or faulty roof. They may require repairs the roof before they are willing to grant a certification.

Who Provides Roofing Certifications?

Only roofers or roof inspectors can provide roof certifications. Home inspectors cannot issue roof certifications. When you’re looking for a roofer who performs certifications, take the time to choose one who has a good reputation and references.

How Are Roofing Certifications issued?

A qualified roofer will come to your home to conduct a roofing inspection. They will examine both the exterior and underside of your roof if possible. They’ll be looking at the age of the roof, and its condition given the age. Roofers will examine the quality of installation and signs of maintenance over the years. And, they’ll carefully look at the state of the shingles, and whether they are still firmly intact. Flashing, and other parts of the roof will also be inspected including the gutters and downspouts.

If they find any problems with the roof, they’ll require you to rectify those issues before they can issue a roof certification. After the necessary repairs are made, they can issue a certification as soon as the same day.

The Benefit Of Roof Certifications

The primary reason for having your roof certified is to make your house more attractive in a buyer’s market. A potential buyer may be more inclined to purchase your home over another similar priced one if your roof is guaranteed to cause no problems for the next three years or so. The buyer benefits knowing their future home is protected, and the seller benefits from the advantaged gained over their competitors.

Who Requires Roof Certifications

Roofing certifications have become standard practice in most markets across the United States. Some local governments are beginning to require them before a home can be sold, much like a home inspection, to protect both buyer and seller. Many mortgage companies have started to require roof certifications before the sale of a home can become finalized, especially if that sale is being financed through a federally backed loan.

Texas Certifications

Roofers don’t have to be licensed in Texas. So, if you’re in the market for a certification, make sure you hire a roofer that has taken the time to obtain a license from a well-known roofing organization such as the NRCIA. At the very least, ask your roofer for their insurance information and what licenses they carry.