Johns Creek Roof Inspection Checklist

A good roof inspection follows the same path every time, from the ground and gutters up to the ridge and then into the attic. Whether you are checking after a storm, before buying a house, or just because the roof is getting older, this checklist covers what matters on typical Johns Creek homes.

Do as much as you can from the ground or a ladder at the eaves; leave walking the roof to a professional.

From the ground and gutters

Look for missing, lifted or creased shingles; dark or bald patches; sagging rooflines; and granules collecting in gutters or at downspout outlets. Check that gutters are attached and draining, and that downspouts discharge away from the house.

Flashing and penetrations

Chimney, wall and dormer flashing should be tight with no gaps or rust. Pipe boots often crack after 8 to 15 years and are a leading leak source. Check skylights, vents and satellite mounts for sealant failure. Valleys should be clear of debris.

Ventilation

Look for soffit intake vents that are not blocked by insulation or paint, and exhaust at the ridge or roof vents. Mixed exhaust types on one roof can short-circuit airflow. Poor ventilation shortens shingle life.

In the attic

On a bright day, look for daylight through the deck, water stains, damp or compressed insulation, rusted nails, mold, and signs of pests. Check around chimneys and plumbing vents where leaks often start.

When to inspect

After hail or high wind, when you see granules or stains, when the roof is 15 or more years old, and before buying or selling. A written report with photos is more useful than a verbal summary, especially if an insurer will review the same roof. Published estimates put inspections at about $240 on average.

After the inspection

Sort findings into three groups: fix now (active leaks, missing shingles, open flashing), fix soon (cracked boots, loose gutters, blocked vents) and monitor (minor granule loss, light algae). Keep the report with your home records and repeat the check after major storms so changes are easy to spot.

Published roofing cost estimates

Sources: Angi: Roof replacement cost (2026); Angi: Roof repair cost (2026); Angi: Cost to tarp a roof (2026). Figures are published national or regional estimates compiled by those sites, labeled as estimates; they are not quotes and not prices from any provider on this site. Johns Creek's own permit fees are set in the City's Community Development fee schedule.

Local rules and code references

• City of Johns Creek, Do I Need a Permit?: roof replacement with no structural work (up to 32 square feet of decking) is listed as not needing a permit; new roofs requiring structural alterations do need one; non-structural minor repairs under $2,500 may proceed without a permit only with the Building Official's permission.
• City of Johns Creek Building Codes: the City enforces the Georgia State Minimum Codes, including the 2024 International Residential Code with Georgia amendments effective January 1, 2026.
• City of Johns Creek Building FAQs: permits must be obtained before work starts; working without a required permit can bring stop work orders and penalties; permitted work requires City inspections.
• Georgia DCA, State Minimum Standard Codes: Georgia's adopted construction codes and amendments that cities such as Johns Creek enforce.

Code text and department procedures change; confirm current requirements with the jurisdiction before work starts.

Related local guides

• Medlock Bridge Architectural Shingle Roof Cost
• Roof Inspection in Johns Creek
• Roof Leak Repair in Johns Creek