When a certified applicator from our network arrives at your rig, they don’t just look at the top of the roof and start spraying. A professional assessment covers 47 distinct checkpoints — and we’re sharing that complete list here so you can conduct your own thorough inspection between professional visits.

This checklist was developed in collaboration with our senior certified applicators and builds on the foundations in our Roof Inspection Report guide and maintenance calendar.

Before You Go on the Roof: Interior Inspection (Points 1–12)

1. Check all interior ceiling panels for discoloration, staining, or soft spots
2. Run your hand along the ceiling fabric/panel seams — any separation indicates moisture
3. Check above all window cornices — these are secondary water entry points
4. Inspect ceiling in slideout areas specifically — slideout roofs are highest-risk zones
5. Open all overhead storage compartments and inspect the ceiling above them
6. Check bathroom ceiling around any roof vents
7. Look for any musty odor — active mold in ceiling cavities has a distinctive smell
8. Check the area directly above the refrigerator — the exhaust vent is a frequent leak point
9. Examine all light fixtures for water infiltration marks
10. Check the front cap area interior — front cap seams are high-failure zones on many rigs
11. Document any findings with photos from directly below, showing context
12. Use a moisture meter on any suspected areas before going outside

Roof Surface Assessment (Points 13–30)

13. Walk the roof perimeter and check the drip edge/edge trim condition
14. Inspect front cap seam — full width — for any cracks or separation in the sealant
15. Check all lap sealant for cracking, hardening, or pulling away from the surface
16. Inspect all seams for any separation or bubbling
17. Assess the overall surface for chalking (white powder) — sign of UV degradation
18. Look for any discoloration or dark spots that may indicate moisture retention
19. Check for ponding areas — low spots where water pools
20. Inspect the area around the AC unit(s) — most common failure point
21. Check AC unit mounting bolts for tightness
22. Inspect AC unit gasket condition — compress with your thumb; it should be soft and pliable
23. Check all roof vents for cracks in the plastic dome or lid
24. Inspect vent mounting flanges — ensure screws are tight and sealant is intact
25. Check all antenna bases and their boot seals
26. Inspect around any solar panel mounting hardware — common leak initiation point (see our solar panel guide)
27. Check satellite dish mount base if present
28. Inspect all skylight frames and gaskets
29. Examine any roof-mounted speakers, lights, or accessories
30. Do a full-hand sweep of the roof surface looking for any soft spots

Slideout Roof Assessment (Points 31–38)

31. Inspect the slideout roof surface condition (often different material than main roof)
32. Check the wiper seal condition — it should be pliable and making firm contact with the main roof
33. Look for wear grooves in the main roof surface where the slideout wipes
34. Check the drip cap over the slideout opening
35. Inspect the front corners of the slideout where two seals meet — highest failure risk
36. Check for any gaps between the slideout frame and the main roof surface when extended
37. Examine the side seams of the slideout roof
38. Document slideout roof condition with the room both extended and retracted

Rear and Side Transitions (Points 39–44)

39. Check rear cap seam across the full width
40. Inspect side roof-to-sidewall transition trim — full length both sides
41. Check all ladder mounting points if present
42. Inspect any roof rack or luggage carrier mounts
43. Check awning mounting hardware penetrations if awnings are roof-mounted
44. Examine any roof-level storage pod or add-on unit mounting points

Substrate Assessment (Points 45–47)

45. If coating removal is possible, check substrate condition at a test area
46. Confirm substrate type (plywood, OSB, foam board, composite) — affects coating selection
47. Check for any delamination of the roof substrate from the frame — can be felt as a spongy “give” when pressing firmly

After Your Inspection

Any issues found should be prioritized by severity: active leaks and soft spots are immediate action items. Cracking sealant is urgent. Minor discoloration or surface chalking can be scheduled.

If you find anything concerning, don’t delay. Connect with a certified applicator for a professional assessment. Our applicators provide free evaluations for community members on their first consultation.

For the full context on what professional assessment findings mean, read our Inspection Report guide.