Roof inspections in Manalapan, FL

The roof section of the 4-point form records the covering material, roof age, remaining useful life, last permit date and whether the replacement was full or partial. The inspector also notes soft decking, missing tabs or tiles, exposed felt and any attic leak marks.

A wind mitigation inspection is separate. Form OIR-B1-1802 asks about roof deck attachment, roof-to-wall connections, roof shape and any sealed roof deck. Most of that sits in the attic, where you cannot easily see it, so the inspector takes photos. A completed form remains usable for up to five years, unless the house changes.

Salt air and storm exposure on a barrier island make the findings worth reading closely. Palm Beach County is outside the High Velocity Hurricane Zone, so the ordinary Florida Building Code applies. Hurricane Irma in 2017 put 2 to 4 feet of surge over ground along the county's coast.

• Buying: an inspection of a 1979-era house shows remaining roof life before closing.
• Selling: a recent report answers a buyer's insurance questions early.
• An insurer letter: a 15-year notice lets you answer with an inspector's findings.
• After a storm: check for lifted tabs, soft decking and ceiling stains, and know the 1-year notice limit on new claims.

With 36.2 percent of units held for seasonal use, many Manalapan houses sit empty for months. A leak can run unseen, so an owner who is away should have someone look after a named storm. Roof work needs a permit from the Town of Manalapan Building and Zoning office, so confirm requirements with them before work starts.

Be careful with anyone who offers a free-looking inspection tied to a claim. Under Florida Statute 489.147, a roofer may not give you anything of value in exchange for an inspection, and may not interpret your policy. Your insurer or agent is the one to ask.