If you’re looking for a new place to call home, you’ll naturally focus your attention on the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the layout and the amount of square footage. It’s important not to overlook other critical factors, such as the age and condition of the roof.
Why Is the Age of the Roof Important?
Any house, except one that is brand new, will have some wear and tear. Knowing the age and condition of a roof can help you figure out whether you should purchase a house or take a pass.
As a roof gets older, the chance of it developing a leak or another problem increases. If you buy a house with an old roof, it may need to be repaired or replaced soon after you move in.
How to Learn About the Condition of the Roof
If you’re thinking about buying a house, ask your real estate agent the age of the roof. Request documentation so you know when the roof was last repaired or replaced and exactly what was done.
You should always have a house inspected before you decide to move ahead with a purchase. An inspector can spot issues that you might not be able to detect, such as missing shingles or a roof leak. A home inspector can also check the condition of the gutters to make sure water can drain properly. Understanding the house’s condition can help you make an informed decision on whether to buy it, request repairs or look at other properties.
Should You Buy a House or Walk Away?
If the home inspection reveals serious damage or wear to the roof, you may want to have a roofing company conduct a more thorough inspection. If the damage is relatively minor, you may decide to ask the seller to make repairs or adjust the asking price and go ahead with the purchase.
If the roof’s structure has been compromised, or if a roof leak went unaddressed and water entered the attic, your best bet may be to walk away. The house may have damage to the roof, insulation and drywall, as well as mold.
If you buy a house that has significant roof damage or one that’s nearing the end of its lifespan, you may be hit with an expensive repair bill soon after you move in. Ask yourself if you could afford that and if the house is so impressive in other ways that it would be a good idea to buy it despite roof damage.
Talk to your real estate agent about the condition of a house you are considering, the asking price and prices for comparable homes in the area. Your agent may be able to help you decide whether to negotiate a lower price or walk away.
