Inspectors ask …

"Can I use a drone to inspect the roof instead of climbing it?"

Many inspectors have gotten into the habit of using a drone to inspect the roof instead of walking the roof. This could be problematic if they are not properly following the departure provisions.

TREC Rule 535.228(c)(2) states that an inspector is not required to inspect the roof from the roof level if, in the inspector's reasonable judgment:

• The inspector cannot safely reach or stay on the roof, or
• Significant damage to the roof covering materials may result from walking on the roof.

Frequently, inspectors don’t document the basis for their departure on the inspection report. Or maybe the basis for departure is not reasonable, e.g., there is nothing particularly hazardous about the roof.

Inspectors should be mindful that there are some deficiencies in roofing materials that are not discovered unless you walk the roof. Although a drone can look directly down at the surface of the roof, it may not be able to look under eaves or into crevices.

Inspectors are not required to use specialized equipment like drones, but if you do, TREC Rule 535.227(a)(4) states you must do so competently.