Looked at another way, if you just replaced the roof, that would one of your best selling features.
When you are selling your house, especially in a slow or slowing market, your roof has to do more than
simply keep out the weather. It also has to look good. This means the shingles are flat, not curled,
cracked or distorted and there are no obvious problems, such as missing shingles or tiles. Your place
will obviously be easier to sell if the roof is not blackened or discolored.
Roof problems that can trigger an item in the inspector's report and potentially wound the deal can also include:
Old roofs that are past their "life expectancy".
Missing or poorly installed slater's felt or roofing paper.
Second roofs (i.e., if a second roof was put on top of the first one instead of the first one being removed.
While this can be okay, assuming the roof rafters and framing can support the weight, if the old roof was buckled or
the shingles curled up, a second roof layer will eventually take the shape of the bottom layer.) Keep in mind that in most communities,
third roofs are a no-no.
Improperly installed roofing materials can also be the source of problems.
Even if they aren't, they can still earn a demerit in the inspector's report. Inspectors will be looking at
the flashing around eaves, chimneys and vents as well as improperly designed pitches and valleys
leading to chronic roof problems. Therefore, so should you.
Some of these problems might require a complete tear-off and roof replacing.
If that is the case, additional negotiations
might be necessary in order to satisfy your buyer.
NOTE: Even if the roof doesn't leak, but the inspector finds that it is worn out
and beyond it's "life expectancy," the buyer may want some financial adjustment.
REMEMBER: Once you are aware of a defect, you will need to disclose it.
This is another reason to correct problems before putting your house on the market.
Flat Roof Leak Repair: Finding the Leak
Cleaning Out Gutters
Please email me at deb@fsbocomplete.com
with your thoughts, comments, questions, or just to say "Hi".
Deb
