Whether you’re preparing to sell a commercial building or in the due diligence phase of acquiring one, the condition of the roof can make or break the deal. In today’s market, buyers and brokers are more informed than ever—and a neglected flat roof can lead to price drops, delays, or even deal breakers.

At Etheridge Roofing, we specialize in helping property owners protect and showcase the value of their roofing systems during key transitional moments. Here’s what to know (and do) before listing or buying a property with a flat roof.

 

1. Schedule a Comprehensive Roof Inspection

What buyers look for:

 

Before investing, savvy buyers want assurance that the roof is in solid condition — or they’ll negotiate for repairs or concessions. That’s why it’s essential to schedule a third-party roof inspection before listing your property or finalizing a purchase.

 

What to include in your inspection:

• Roof membrane condition (TPO, PVC, EPDM)
• Flashing and penetration details
• Slope and drainage functionality
• Signs of ponding, blistering, seam separation, or punctures
• Decking condition (especially under HVAC units or past repair sites)
• Insulation performance and moisture content (infrared scans are a plus)

 

Etheridge Tip: Ask for a detailed report with photos, core samples, and repair history to present to buyers or lenders during due diligence.

 

2. Gather All Roofing Documentation

 

Proper documentation builds buyer confidence and increases your property’s marketability.

 

Make sure you have:

• Warranty paperwork (material and workmanship)
• Recent repair records and service invoices
• Maintenance logs
• Installation details (contractor, date, system type, specs)
• Drainage reports or architectural plans (if available)
• Photos of past work or before/after comparisons

 

Bonus Tip: Organize these into a “Roofing Folder” or PDF you can share with realtors or investors—it signals professionalism and transparency.

 

3. Perform Pre-Sale Repairs or Recoating (Strategically)

Addressing minor issues now can pay off in negotiation.

 

If your inspection uncovers small membrane separations, deteriorated sealant, or clogged drains, handle them before listing—this prevents red flags in the buyer’s inspection and supports a stronger asking price.

 

If your roof is older but structurally sound, you may benefit from a protective recoating or restoration system, which:

• Extends the life of the roof
• Improves energy efficiency
• Adds warranty value (some up to 10–15 years)
• Boosts aesthetic appeal

 

4. Know When a Roof Replacement Adds Value

 

In some cases—especially for high-end commercial listings or large investment properties—a new roof can increase appraised value and reduce time on the market.

 

You may want to consider a replacement if:

• The current roof is over 20 years old
• There are persistent leak issues
• Moisture scans show widespread saturation
• It’s a key asset for insurance or tax depreciation
• You're seeking top-dollar resale value

 

Pro tip: If you replace the roof before selling, include the new warranty in the purchase agreement—it’s a value-add for buyers and may boost ROI.

 

5. For Buyers: What to Look for in a Flat Roof Purchase

If you’re acquiring a commercial property, don’t skip the roof review. Hidden issues can lead to six-figure repairs after closing.

 

Here’s what to look for:

• Valid and transferable warranties
• Clear repair and inspection history
• Evidence of routine maintenance
• Photos showing completed work (not just written reports)
• Any signs of ponding, soft spots, or poor drainage
• Compatibility with your HVAC/electrical layout

 

Protect the Value Above Your Head

 

Your roof is more than a layer of protection—it’s a major asset that directly impacts resale value, insurance eligibility, tenant retention, and operational costs. Whether you’re buying or selling, a neglected roof can drag the entire deal down, while a well-maintained one builds confidence and adds leverage.

 

Ready to Prepare Your Property?

 

Let Etheridge Roofing help you:

• Maximize value before listing
• Avoid delays during closing
• Give buyers confidence with data-backed insights

 

📞 Contact us today for an inspection or consultation—or request a custom roof report for your listing portfolio.