
The Complete 2026 Utah Roof Inspection Checklist (Professional)
Michael Naylor • November 7, 2025
A professional roof inspection Utah providers
perform goes far beyond a free quote or a quick look at the shingles. It’s a systematic review of your entire roof system.

1. Roof Surface Condition
Inspectors evaluate:
- Granule loss
- Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
- Exposed nails
- UV damage on south-facing slopes
- Punctures or blisters on flat roofs (TPO/PVC/EPDM)
Utah’s intense solar radiation accelerates UV wear, especially after dry summers when shingles already run hot.
2. Flashing & Transitions
Most leaks start here:
- Chimneys
- Skylights
- Wall transitions
- Drip edges
- Valley metal
Cracked sealant or loose flashing can funnel meltwater into the attic.
3. Ventilation & Attic Checks
Inside the attic, professionals look for:
- Frost on nails
- Condensation
- Wet or compressed insulation
- Mold “ghosting” along trusses
Poor ventilation is a leading cause of ice dams and attic moisture.
4. Drainage Systems
On pitched roofs: gutters, downspouts, fascia decay.
On flat roofs: scuppers, internal drains, and evidence of ponding water.
5. Underlayment, Decking & Structure
Inspectors look for:
- Soft spots
- Sagging areas
- Warped decking
- Stress from snow load roof Utah conditions
Even minor deflection can indicate structural risk after a heavy snow year.
What We Look for After Heavy Snow & Ice (Snow Load Roof Utah)
Snow might fall quietly, but it applies massive weight. Ground snow loads in Utah range widely by county and elevation, with many areas requiring roofs to handle 30–40+ psf. That’s thousands of pounds sitting on your structure.
1. Ice Dams & Edge Damage
We check:
- Lifted shingles
- Water staining behind eaves
- Buckled valleys
- Melt-refreeze patterns that force water upward under shingles
Attic sheathing often shows streaks where meltwater backed up.
2. Structural Stress
Signs of snow load strain include:
- Sagging ridgelines
- Bowed trusses
- Cracked interior drywall
- Depressions near drains on flat roofs
Commercial TPO/PVC roofs often reveal stress via cracked parapet corners or displaced equipment curbs.
3. Attic Moisture & Condensation
Deep snow can block vents. When warm air can’t escape, moisture builds up fast. Inspectors look for:
- Frost on nail points
- Damp insulation
- Musty smells
- Mold shadows along framing
4. The Post-Melt Risk
Many owners assume danger ends once snow stops falling. In reality, rain-on-snow events and fast warm-ups often create the highest loads. Snow absorbs rainwater like a sponge, doubling in weight.
Scheduling a winter roof inspection Utah style immediately after major melts or warm spells prevents small issues from becoming major failures.
What We Look for After Windstorms
Windstorms along the Wasatch Front regularly exceed 60–70 mph, and past events have topped 100 mph. After these storms, we perform a targeted inspection of the most likely failure points.
1. Wind-Lifted Shingles & Creased Tabs
Key indicators include:
- Shingles bent upward
- Broken or missing tabs
- Exposed fasteners
- Seal strips that have separated
Once the seal breaks, the next storm can rip shingles off with far less force.
2. Ridge Caps & Hip Shingles
These high points take the brunt of uplift. Even small cracks or shifts can lead to leaks.
3. Soffit & Fascia Failures
Wind can push water behind the fascia board or rip panels loose, allowing moisture intrusion.
4. Flat Roof Damage (Commercial)
During a commercial roof inspection Utah winds often reveal:
- Membrane billowing
- Fastener back-out
- Edge metal separation
- Displaced roof-mounted equipment
Wind rarely damages just one part of a property. When the whole neighborhood is affected, your risk rises dramatically.
What We Look for After Hail (Hail Damage Utah)
Hail is deceptive—damage often goes unnoticed until leaks or premature aging appear years later.
1. Soft Metal Indicators
We always check:
- Downspouts
- Metal fascia
- A/C units
- Roof vents
- Gas caps
Fresh dents here usually mean shingle bruising above.
2. Bruising vs Granule Loss
Inspectors differentiate:
- True hail bruises (soft, spongy impact spots)
- Granule displacement
- Cracked or split shingles
Each has different implications for lifespan and insurance claims.
3. Flat Roof Hail Damage
On TPO/PVC systems, hail can cause:
- Membrane punctures
- Depressions around fasteners
- Cracked skylight domes
- Damage to equipment curbs
4. Insurance Timing
Insurers increasingly examine whether damage came from a recent storm or previous one. That’s why maintaining annual inspection documentation gives you an advantage during the claim process.
Inspection Checklists by Roof Type
Not all roofs respond the same way to Utah’s extreme climate. A roof inspection Utah homeowners schedule must be tailored to the material. Below are the key issues inspectors look for by roof type.
Asphalt & Architectural Shingles
Asphalt shingles remain Utah’s most common roofing material, but they’re also the most vulnerable to hail damage Utah storms and prolonged UV exposure.
Inspectors evaluate:
- Granule loss patterns (often heaviest on west-facing slopes)
- Creased or wind-lifted shingles
- Cracked, curled, or brittle shingles
- Loose ridge caps
- Ice dam damage along eaves
Aged shingles can become brittle in winter, making them more susceptible to hail bruising or cracking when temperatures drop below freezing.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing sheds snow efficiently, making it ideal for heavy snow load roof Utah zones. But metal systems have their own inspection concerns.
Inspectors look for:
- Fastener back-out from expansion/contraction
- Worn paint systems and oxidation
- Loose ridge cap screws
- Damaged snow-shedding guards
- Separation at standing seams
Metal roofs may survive hail better than shingles, but large hailstones can still dent panels or deform seams.
Tile Roofing (Concrete or Clay)
Tile roofs are durable but heavy. Inspections focus on:
- Cracked or broken tiles
- Missing edge tiles
- Underlayment deterioration
- Mortar failures
- Flashing gaps around chimneys and walls
Tile itself may survive hail, but underlayment often becomes the weak point after years of temperature cycling.
Flat Roofs (TPO, PVC, EPDM)
For commercial buildings, a flat roof inspection Utah companies rely on is essential. Inspectors check:
- Seam weld integrity
- Membrane punctures
- Ponding water (48+ hours)
- Loose or missing fasteners
- Parapet cracks
- Issues with HVAC curbs and penetrations
These roofs are especially vulnerable to winter freeze–thaw movement and heavy snow, which can cause subtle depressions that worsen drainage.
Commercial Utah Roof Inspection Requirements
Commercial roofs face different challenges than residential ones. They cover larger surface areas, hold heavy equipment, and serve multiple tenants whose operations depend on a leak-free structure.
1. NRCA Recommendations
National standards call for commercial roofs to be inspected:
- Before winter
- After winter
- After any major storm event
This is especially true for TPO/PVC systems, which dominate Utah commercial roofs.
2. Documentation Expectations
Facility managers need:
- Photo logs
- Moisture readings
- Detailed defect notes
- Lifetime projections
- Repair vs. replace recommendations
A routine inspection provides the narrative insurers and asset managers rely on when budgeting or filing claims.
3. Common Failure Points on Utah Commercial Roofs
Inspectors pay special attention to:
- Scuppers and internal drains
- Parapet wall interfaces
- Mechanical penetrations
- Welded seams
- Membrane uplift
- Ice ridges forming near edges
Due to Utah’s snow cycles, many issues arise from blocked drains or freeze–thaw movement beneath the membrane.
4. Flat Roof Snow Load Challenges
Many Utah counties require buildings to withstand 30–40+ psf snow loads. When commercial roofs pond water or accumulate drifts near parapets, the weight can exceed design limits.
A professional commercial roof inspection Utah property owners schedule each winter can prevent catastrophic sagging or membrane tearing.
The 2026 Digital Roof Inspection: Drones, Imaging & AI
Digital tools are rapidly transforming how inspections are performed. In 2026, drone and thermal imaging have become mainstream, especially after major hail damage Utah events.
1. Drone Mapping
Drones capture:
- High-resolution images
- Slope-by-slope comparisons
- Hard-to-reach areas
- Accurate measurements for insurance
They also detect subtle pattern distortions indicating lifted shingles or uneven decking.
2. Infrared Thermal Imaging
Thermal scans reveal:
- Hidden moisture under shingles
- Wet insulation under TPO/PVC systems
- Subtle leak paths
- Areas where ice dams pushed water beneath the roof
This prevents guesswork, especially after winter storms or attic condensation cycles.
3. AI-Assisted Analysis
AI tools now analyze drone images to detect:
- Impact patterns
- Missing shingles
- Sealant failures
- Ponding water
- Membrane anomalies
This boosts accuracy and provides homeowners with visual evidence insurers can’t ignore.
4. Why Tech Matters in Utah
Utah’s combination of heat, hail, snow, and wind creates damage that traditional visual inspections often miss. Drone + IR + manual inspection is now the gold standard for documenting damage and forecasting lifespan.
How Roof Inspections Help With Insurance Claims
Navigating insurance after a storm doesn’t need to be stressful—if you have documentation. A proper roof inspection Utah insurers trust improves both the speed and outcome of a claim.
1. What Insurers Look For
Adjusters evaluate:
- Soft metal damage
- Shingle bruising
- Membrane punctures
- Signs of pre-existing wear
- Attic moisture damage
If your property has no inspection history, it becomes harder to prove when damage occurred.
2. How to Document Damage Before Filing
Homeowners should gather:
- Photos of the storm aftermath
- Dents in gutters/downspouts
- Shingle fragments
- Interior stains
- Granules at downspouts
Then schedule a hail damage roof inspection Utah insurers accept as professional evidence.
3. When NOT to File a Claim
Avoid filing claims for:
- Minor cosmetic wear
- Damage below deductible
- Aging shingles unrelated to storms
A roofer can help you avoid unnecessary claim filings that may raise premiums.
4. Why Bring a Roofer to the Adjuster Meeting
A roofer can:
- Point out damage the adjuster may overlook
- Compare photos from past inspections
- Advocate for full-scope repairs
- Ensure code requirements are factored in
This often results in a more accurate and complete claim settlement.
Utah Building Codes, Snow Loads & 2026 Updates
Building codes shape how roofs should be built—and how they should be inspected.
1. Utah Snow Load Zones
Snow load varies dramatically:
- Salt Lake County often uses 43 psf ground snow load
- Northern counties (Cache/Box Elder) may exceed 50–60 psf
- Higher elevations demand even more
These numbers matter because they influence structural expectations when evaluating sagging, ice dams, or ponding water.
2. 2026 Code Considerations
Updates include:
- Revised snow load calculations
- Stricter ventilation requirements
- Mandatory ice-barrier protection zones
- Updated flashing and underlayment standards
Inspectors factor these into repair vs. replace recommendations.
3. HOA and Commercial Compliance
HOAs must track:
- Replacement cycles
- Snow load risks
- Insurance requirements
- Reserve funding for roofs
Commercial properties must meet NRCA and state code standards, especially for drainage.
Signs You Need Repair vs. Full Roof Replacement
Knowing when to repair or replace saves thousands.
1. Repair Indicators
- Isolated wind damage
- Single areas of granule loss
- Minor flashing gaps
- Small membrane punctures
- Limited attic moisture
These can be fixed affordably.
2. Replacement Indicators
- Widespread shingle brittleness
- Large-scale hail bruising
- Curled shingles on multiple slopes
- Repeated ice dam leaks
- Structural sagging from snow load roof Utah conditions
- Aging beyond expected lifespan
Shingles typically last 15–25 years, while TPO/PVC membranes last 20–30 depending on maintenance.
Preventative Maintenance Tips for Utah Homes & Buildings
Proactive care extends the life of your roof—and lowers total ownership cost.
Seasonal Tasks
- Clean gutters each fall
- Clear debris from valleys
- Remove snow from flat roofs when safe
- Inspect attic ventilation in winter
- Check soft metals after hailstorms
Attic Ventilation
Balanced intake and exhaust prevent:
- Ice dams
- Mold growth
- Higher utility bills
- Shingle deterioration
Flat Roof Maintenance
Commercial owners should:
- Clear drains monthly
- Schedule semi-annual inspections
- Remove ponding water
- Seal penetrations
- Check parapet walls for cracks
What to Expect During a Bob Harvey Roofing Inspection
Our inspections are detailed, transparent, and tailored for Utah’s climate.
Step-by-Step Process
- Ground-level assessment
- Drone imaging (if needed)
- Attic moisture check
- Full perimeter walk
- Photo and video documentation
- Repair recommendations
Reporting & Follow-Up
You’ll receive:
- A digital report
- Photo evidence
- Suggested repairs
- Cost ranges
- Timeline planning
This supports both preventative care and insurance claims.
Conclusion
A roof in Utah works harder than almost anywhere else in the Mountain West. It carries thousands of pounds of snow, withstands brutal UV exposure, survives powerful windstorms, and endures sudden hail impacts. These pressures test every seam, vent, and fastener—making consistent, well-documented inspections an essential part of protecting your home or building.
Over the course of this guide, you’ve seen how a roof inspection Utah professionals perform can catch the earliest signs of trouble: from ice dam formation and attic frost to wind-lifted shingles and hidden hail bruising. You’ve learned how inspections change by season, by roof type, and by the unique hazards of Utah’s climate. You’ve also seen how crucial inspection records are for navigating insurance claims, planning capital budgets, and preventing minor issues from becoming major failures.
Whether you’re a homeowner watching out for your family or a property manager safeguarding multiple buildings, now is the right time to schedule your next inspection. Doing so before the next storm—and documenting it—protects your investment, maintains safe occupancy, and gives you confidence heading into any season.
Protect your property. Prevent surprises. And stay ahead of Utah’s unpredictable weather with a roof inspection you can trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should a roof be inspected in Utah?
At least once per year, plus after major storms. Many owners add a winter roof inspection Utah service to assess ice damage and attic moisture.
2. What are the most common signs of hail damage in Utah?
Dented soft metals, granule piles at downspouts, bruised shingles, cracked shingles, and punctures on flat roofs.
3. How do I know if my roof is at risk from snow load?
Look for sagging rooflines, bowed trusses, interior cracks, or heavy drifting. These indicate snow load roof Utah concerns requiring immediate inspection.
4. Are free inspections enough for insurance claims?
Free inspections are helpful but rarely detailed enough. A hail damage roof inspection Utah insurers trust includes photos, slope-by-slope notes, and attic checks.
5. What’s included in a winter roof inspection in Utah?
Inspectors assess ice dams, attic frost, ventilation blockages, structural stress from snow, and drainage paths for melting snow.
If this guide helped you understand your roof, share it with another Utah homeowner or building manager. Have a question about your property? Drop a comment, reach out directly, or schedule your next inspection—we’re here to help you stay ahead of every season.
References
External Sources
- National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). “Owner Inspection and Maintenance Recommendations.”
- Utah State University. “Utah Ground Snow Load Map & Snow Load Study.”
- State of Utah. “Utah Code Section 15A-3-107 – Amendments to IBC Snow Load Requirements.”
- Salt Lake City Building Services. “Project Design Criteria — Snow, Wind & Structural Loads.”
Internal Sources (Bob Harvey Roofing)
- Why Should You Have a Professional Roof Inspection to Assess Heavy Storm Damage?
https://bobharveyroofing.com/why-should-you-have-a-professional-roof-inspection-to-assess-heavy-storm-damage - Flat Roof Options Utah: Costs, Lifespan, and Best Choices.
https://www.bobharveyroofing.com/flat-roof-options-utah-costs-lifespan-and-best-choices - Commercial and Residential Metal Roofing.
https://bobharveyroofing.com/metal-roofing














