Commercial Roof Inspection Checklist

Why this matters

A commercial roof inspection is only useful if it's specific. "The roof looked fine" isn't an inspection report — a real one checks named components, notes their condition individually, and photographs anything questionable. Use this checklist to evaluate a bid you've received, brief your own maintenance staff, or know what to expect from a Crownline inspection.

Drainage & water management

• All roof drains and scuppers clear of debris, leaves, and sediment buildup
• Gutters and downspouts intact, properly pitched, and draining away from the building
• No areas of standing water (ponding) remaining more than 48 hours after rainfall
• Overflow drains/scuppers present and unobstructed where required
• Roof slope and drainage crickets functioning as designed around equipment curbs

Membrane & surface condition

• No visible blistering, bubbling, or delamination of the membrane surface
• No cracking, splitting, or brittleness in the membrane, especially at seams
• Granule loss checked on cap sheets (modified bitumen) or coated systems
• No visible punctures, tears, or foot-traffic damage across the field of the roof
• Seams (heat-welded, adhered, or torched depending on system) intact with no separation
• Overall membrane color/UV condition consistent with expected age and system type

Flashing & penetrations

• Base flashing at parapet walls secure and properly adhered/sealed
• Counter-flashing and coping caps intact with no gaps or rust-through
• Pipe boots and penetration seals free of cracking and properly sealed
• HVAC curb flashing intact, with no gaps between the curb and the membrane
• Expansion joint covers intact and properly sealed
• Skylight and roof-hatch flashing and seals in good condition

Rooftop equipment & structural items

• HVAC units and rooftop equipment properly curbed, not resting directly on the membrane
• Satellite, antenna, or solar racking mounts checked for proper flashing and structural attachment
• Walk pads or protective mats present in high-traffic maintenance paths
• Guardrails, ladders, and roof-access points in safe, code-compliant condition
• No signs of interior ceiling staining or moisture that would indicate an active leak

Documentation

• Dated photographs of every item noted as damaged, worn, or questionable
• Written report identifying specific locations by roof zone, not a general summary
• Comparison against the manufacturer's warranty maintenance requirements, if applicable
• Clear recommendation: monitor, repair, or replace — with reasoning, not just a verdict

Recommended next step

Use this checklist to compare inspection reports you receive, or have Crownline run a full documented inspection against every item here, with photos and a written scope you can act on or file for insurance and warranty purposes.