I get where you’re coming from—sometimes the report can look a bit overwhelming, especially when it lists every minor thing. I’ve had clients worry over nail pops or tiny drywall cracks that are just normal settling, not structural issues. The challenge is, if we don’t mention them, someone down the line might say we missed something. It’s a tough balance. I usually try to clarify in my notes what’s cosmetic versus what’s actually a concern, but not everyone does that. Some folks definitely lean on the side of caution... maybe a little too much at times.
The challenge is, if we don’t mention them, someone down the line might say we missed something.
That’s the part that gets me. I get why inspectors list every little thing, but sometimes it just freaks people out for no reason. Ever had an inspector call out “age-related wear” on a roof that’s only like 8 years old? Makes me wonder if they’re just covering themselves or if they really think it’s a problem. How do you even push back on that without sounding like you’re hiding something?
sometimes it just freaks people out for no reason
Totally get this. I had an inspector once list “minor granule loss” on a 5-year-old shingle roof—buyer panicked, thought it needed replacing. I just showed receipts and warranty info, explained normal wear. Usually helps calm nerves, but yeah, it’s a balancing act.
Minor granule loss on a 5-year-old roof is pretty standard, honestly. I see it all the time—shingles just shed a bit as they age, especially after a few storms or even just regular weather. Inspectors sometimes flag it because they have to cover their bases, but it doesn’t mean the roof’s shot.
You did the right thing showing receipts and warranty info. Most buyers just need a little reassurance that “normal wear” isn’t the same as “needs replacement.” I’ve had folks get worked up over tiny hail marks that don’t even penetrate the shingle. It’s tough, because you want to be transparent but not make mountains out of molehills.
If you keep records and can explain what’s typical for your area and roof type, that usually settles things down. Sometimes I wish inspectors would add a line about what’s actually concerning vs. just “not perfect,” but I get why they don’t. It’s always a bit of a dance.
- Yeah, I get flagged for “granule loss” all the time when I’m out inspecting. Honestly, if I had a nickel for every time someone panicked over a few bare spots, I’d have retired by now.
- Five years in, a roof’s just getting started. Asphalt shingles especially will shed some granules after a couple heavy rains or a hailstorm. It looks worse than it is most of the time.
- Receipts and warranty docs are gold. I’ve seen buyers relax instantly once they see the install date and paperwork—even if the roof looks a little “lived in.”
- Not every inspector will spell out what’s normal vs. what’s an actual problem. Sometimes we’re just covering our butts, not trying to scare people. But yeah, I wish the reports were clearer sometimes too.
- Had one seller get mad at me because I noted “minor granule loss” on a 2-year-old roof. Thing is, it was right after a windstorm. Stuff happens.
- Bottom line: If the shingles aren’t curling, cracking, or missing, I’m not worried. And neither should you, really… unless you’re seeing leaks or daylight through the attic. Then it’s a different story.
