HELP! Will an inspecter be able to tell me if a roof needs replacing? (recommendation, property)

[angrygreenfraggle]

Hello all! I just went into escrow on a forclosure. I was told originally the roof needed to be replaced to the home and the bank was going to do this. Then a bit later I was told by the person representing the bank that there was a misunderstanding and the roof was only going to be fixed not replaced . Apparently two contracters stated that the roof was shot and needed replacing and one contracter stated that the roof didn't need replacing and just needed to be repaired so the bank went with that contracter and he fixed only part of the roof . I am still worried about what the other two contracters stated about the roof being shot. When I hire an inspecter will he be able to tell if the roof is indeed shot? What do you suggest?

[khuntrevor]

lower your offer accordingly.

[MrRational]

Originally Posted by angrygreenfraggle

I was told originally the roof needed to be replaced
a bit later I was ... the roof was only going to be fixed not replaced .

when you (and they) say "roof"..
do you mean the actual framing lumber underneath? the rafters?
or do you mean the (plywood/osb) underlay sheathing?
or do you mean the asphalt shingles on top that never last anyone more than 15-25 years?

btw...has anyone mentioned terms like "trim" or "flashing" ?

two contracters stated that the roof was shot
one contracter stated that the roof didn't need replacing
and just needed to be repaired...

repaired in order to meet an FHA type "satisfactory" standard?
or completely redone with a long term warranty from a reputable contractor?

did anyone give you anything in writing describing what they actually did?

When I hire an inspecter will he be able to tell if the roof is indeed shot?

If the roof is "shot" (a highly technical term btw)...
that will be easily understood if not outright obvious.

What do you suggest?

that someone take lots and lots of pictures and then give you explanations you understand
and that you ride their hide until you do understand.
This won't be free.

Originally Posted by Arlo

twenty seven eight-by-ten color glossy pictures with circles and arrows and a paragraph on the back of each one

[rjrcm]

While a general home inspector may tell you that they have concerns about the roof and point out specific obvious problems, they will likely tell you to bring in a roof contractor for an expert inspection and recommendation. You may want to find your own contractor for another opinion.

[FalconheadWest]

Home inspectors are not "experts" in every field. They are general, visual inspectors. You would need a licensed roofer to tell you if the roof is "shot". If it's insurable, it's not "shot".

[angrygreenfraggle]

Mr. Rational, you bring up some great points. I will followup on the details. I'm going to request a report of what was done by the contracter. Before investing in this property I will hire someone to check the roof out. thanks you so much for all your info!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for your info everyone!!!!!!! This has helped me ALOT