That’s the thing—sometimes what looks like a roof leak is coming from somewhere totally unrelated. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been called out for “roof leaks” that turned out to be condensation, especially in homes with older insulation or blocked soffit vents. Ever notice how inspectors will sometimes just see water stains and instantly chalk it up to “old roof” or “bad install”? Drives me nuts.
I always start by tracing the water path—attic, walls, even chimney flashing. One time, I found a persistent ceiling stain that was actually from a cracked vent pipe boot from the original build, not because the house was “old.” The inspector had guessed the roof was 30+ years old, but it was barely 12.
Do you ever get those mystery leaks that only show up after wind-driven rain? That’s another one where people assume age is the problem, but really it’s just weird weather patterns pushing water into places it normally wouldn’t go. It’s rarely as simple as just swapping out shingles, especially on houses that “look” older than they are.
- 100% agree on the condensation thing—seen it blamed on “old roofs” way too often.
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Yeah, and half the time it’s a siding or flashing issue, not even the roof itself.“Do you ever get those mystery leaks that only show up after wind-driven rain?”
- Had a job last fall where the inspector swore the shingles were original (said “must be 25 years old”), but they were only 8. Turns out, poor attic ventilation made them look way older.
- Curious if you’ve run into inspectors who just won’t budge, even after you show them proof? Sometimes feels like they’re set on blaming age no matter what.
That’s the thing—sometimes it feels like inspectors just have a script in their heads. I had one insist hail damage was “just age” even after I showed him granule loss patterns from wind. Ever had to get a second opinion just to move things forward?
sometimes it feels like inspectors just have a script in their heads. I had one insist hail damage was “just age” even after I showed him granule loss patterns from wind.
This hits home. I’ve run into that “script” thing more than once, and it’s honestly frustrating when you know your property and can spot the difference between normal wear and actual storm damage. I’ve had to get a second opinion a couple times—once with a flat roof where ponding was blamed on “settling” (even though the building’s only six years old). Turns out, a second inspector agreed it was a drainage issue caused by a poorly installed HVAC unit.
If you’re stuck, here’s what I usually do:
1. Document everything—photos, dates, even weather reports if you can get them.
2. Politely push for a re-inspection, especially if you have clear evidence.
3. If you can, bring in an independent adjuster or inspector. Sometimes just having another set of eyes changes the conversation.
It can feel like you’re banging your head against a wall, but standing your ground usually pays off. Don’t let them brush you off if you know something’s up.
Had a similar run-in last year when my “new” roof (installed 2018) was suddenly ancient in the eyes of the insurance inspector. He took one look at the algae streaks and declared it “end of life.” Never mind that the shingles were rated for 30 years and the only thing dying was my patience. I pulled out the warranty paperwork and even showed him the receipt from the install, but he just shrugged and said, “Well, it’s weathered.”
Honestly, I get that inspectors see a lot of roofs, but sometimes it feels like they’re just looking for the fastest way to say “no.” I started keeping a folder with every invoice, photo, and even a couple of those time-stamped satellite images from Google Earth. It’s a bit overkill, but it saved me when I had to appeal.
If you ever get the “it’s just old” line, I’d say don’t be afraid to push back a little. Sometimes the squeaky homeowner gets the grease... or at least a fair shake.
