Homeowner guide
Final Walkthrough After a Roof Replacement: What to Check Before You Pay
The job is not finished when the crew leaves. A short walkthrough before the final payment protects you. Here is what to look at, what paperwork to collect and what to do if something is wrong.
The short answer: Homeowners usually pay for a roof with savings, a home equity loan or line of credit, a personal loan, financing offered through the roofing company, or an insurance payout when the damage is covered. The right choice depends on the total cost of borrowing, not the monthly payment, so compare the interest rate, fees and payoff terms in writing before you commit.
Why a final walkthrough matters
A roof is mostly hidden from the ground, and problems that go unnoticed on day one can become leaks later. A walkthrough lets you confirm the work matches the written estimate, that the property is clean and that the paperwork is in order before you pay the balance.
Before you walk the property
Have the signed estimate or contract, any written change orders and the permit information if a permit was required. Ask the roofer to be present so questions can be answered on the spot. For a refresher on the order of work, see our guide to the roof replacement process.
What to check from the ground
- Shingles installed in straight, even lines, with no obvious gaps, buckles or exposed nails
- Ridge caps, vents and pipe boots in place and neatly installed
- Flashing visible at chimneys and walls, and drip edge along the roof edges
- Gutters, siding, windows and AC units free of damage
- Landscaping, driveway and yard clear of debris, with nails picked up with a magnetic sweep or by hand
- Any items on your list, such as a skylight or chimney work, completed as written
What to check in the attic
If you can reach the attic safely, look at the underside of the roof deck. You should not see daylight through the deck, wet insulation or stains, or nail points pushed far through. Check around vents and penetrations. If the roof was replaced because of a leak, look at the area where the water entered.
The paperwork to collect
- The signed contract and any change orders, matched against the final invoice
- Warranty paperwork for both materials and workmanship, in writing. See roof warranties explained
- Proof of insurance if you have not received it already
- Permit closure or inspection sign-off where a permit applied. See roof permits in Indianapolis
- A lien waiver or release, or confirmation that suppliers and subcontractors are paid. Ask your roofer or an attorney what is appropriate for your situation
- Photos of the finished roof, if the roofer provides them
When to make the final payment
Pay the balance only after the walkthrough, once any items you find are fixed or written down with a date for completion. Follow the payment terms in your contract. If you are unsure about your contract terms, our guide to reading a roofing estimate explains the parts that matter.
If something is wrong
Point it out right away and ask for the fix in writing, with a date. Take photos. For serious concerns, contact the roofer first, then your shingle manufacturer or local building department as appropriate. Keep all communication in writing.
Final walkthrough questions
Should I be home for the final walkthrough?
Yes if you can. Walking the property with the roofer lets you point things out and ask questions right away.
Should I climb on the roof to check it?
No. Look from the ground, and ask your roofer to show photos of the finished roof. Do not climb a roof yourself.
When should I pay the final balance?
After the walkthrough, once agreed items are fixed or scheduled in writing, and in line with your contract.
What if I find nails in my yard later?
Contact the roofer and ask them to return and sweep the property. A magnetic sweep at cleanup helps, but a second pass is reasonable.
What warranty papers should I receive?
Written material and workmanship warranties, with terms and the contact for claims.
Related:
Roof trouble in Indianapolis? Get a written estimate.
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Roofing contractor serving Indianapolis, Indiana and the surrounding suburbs.
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