Inspecting Roof drip edge

Are we required to state the presence ,or absence of drip edges?

What state are you in? What does your SOP say about it? Every state has different requirements.

I note it as information whether it’s required or not and note that it varies between jurisdictions and installation dates.

It might not be required to be installed, but it is best practice to have it. I would note making corrections if it is missing. Let them decide what to do with it.

4 Likes

If your SOP requires it, then yes, the presence or absence of drip edge should be noted.

If you are asking if the lack of drip edge should be listed as a “deficiency,” my answer is yes.

Drip edge flashing is used to protect/seal the joint between the roof decking and trim. If it is missing is that a problem that a flashing piece is missing?

2 Likes

Tennessee.
Tennessee home inspectors standards do not require that we even walk the roof.
And from what I see with ASHI and NACHI ,it is not required either, but since I know the code, I mention it and it is a true sticking point with Buyers and Realtors

Bob Haley
109 Whitney Place Court
Nashville, TN 37215

615.300.7707
Bobhaley@comcast.net

2 Likes

[quote="Bob Haley, post:7, topic:246486, username:bhaley”]
Tennessee home inspectors standards do not require that we even walk the roof.
[/quote]

One doesn’t need to walk to roof to see if there is drip edge or not.

Also, Bob, your website is down:

4 Likes

As Larry said, no inspector anywhere is required to walk a roof, as some roofs are not walkable, that would be a ridiculous requirement. But you should always setup a ladder at the eaves. You can see drip edge that way, but drip edge requirement by your local building codes should say if it’s a requirement or not. And I try to walk ever roof I can, it is always okay to exceed the SOP. The SOP is only the bare minimum. You really do not want to be known as the bare minimum guy. Realtors will not refer you to anyone. If you can’t walk a roof, get a drone and a pole for your camera. Go above and beyond for your clients any way you can. You will start getting lots of referrals that way. Just make sure you have a good insurance policy if you are not getting on roofs. As the law suits will start rushing in.

Nope, just missing one " l " in Nashville… https://homeinspectionsnashville.com/

Actually Larry stated that you don’t need to walk a roof to see that dripedge is missing.

In Texas we are required to walk any roof that is safely accessible. If we do not walk a roof we need to explain, in the report, why we did not.

1 Like

That’s pretty much every SOP. And I said I walk every walkable roof. If I can’t I use a pole and a drone.

NACHI SoP states the following

3.1. Roof
I. The inspector shall inspect from ground level or the eaves:
A. the roof-covering materials;
B. the gutters;
C. the downspouts;
D. the vents, flashing, skylights, chimney, and other roof penetrations; and
E. the general structure of the roof from the readily accessible panels, doors or stairs.

If you have a limitation that prevents you from performing the above requirement, then I recommend you clearly state those limitations in the report.

I called it out, but only as a deficiency if I see moisture damage to the sheathing. If it’s along the facia with a gutter installed, visibility can be obstructed, so I would list it as marginal in those cases and recommend installing drip edge. In almost every case, I find moisture damaged sheathing as a result. If it’s not required in your state, and you don’t find any damage, you can list it as a recommended improvement.