Roof not accessed but reported defect-free – disappointing outcome

We appointed Dave Wates, an InterNACHI-certified property inspector, specifically to ensure that our property purchase was safeguarded against any defects or issues that would not have been obvious to us.

The inspection report stated that no roof defects were observed, which gave us confidence to proceed. However, following heavy rainfall, we experienced significant water ingress and commissioned a contractor’s report, which identified extensive and longstanding defects to the roof, including prior patch repairs, deteriorated flashing, and poor workmanship.

When we raised this with Dave, he confirmed in writing that the main roof areas had not been physically accessed during the inspection. This was not clearly disclosed in the report, and the conclusion of “no defects observed” was not qualified to reflect this limitation.

In our view, this created a misleading impression that the roof had been properly inspected. Had we been aware of this limitation, we would have engaged a specialist to inspect the roof before proceeding with the purchase.

We are extremely disappointed with this outcome, particularly given the significant cost of repairs we are now facing, and have lodged a formal complaint with InterNACHI.

We would strongly caution others to ensure that any limitations in an inspection are clearly disclosed and understood before relying on such reports.