Metal roof penetrations

[Anthony Divello]

Installed properly, I think you would find additional blind metal flashings below doing the job if you were tearing off the roof. Your photo can not show the underlying flashing that may exist. This flashing keeps water from reaching the phelt paper, weeps out where the cosmetic metal roofing spot is, but also a sealant is applied too, so the water is shed down surface for years until sealant compromised. The custom flashing done properly, retains the ability to keep asthetics maintained. I have been doing these for 30+ years and have not had one leak yet. Check from attic to see evidence of leak from below penetration, if not, do not note as defect. With Asphalt we lexonite a cosmetic piece of shingle doing same.
Rhode Island Home Inspections 401-782-5589
http://captsized.inspectorpages2.com

[Jeffrey R. Jonas]

Originally Posted by adivello

Installed properly, I think you would find additional blind metal flashings below doing the job if you were tearing off the roof. Your photo can not show the underlying flashing that may exist. This flashing keeps water from reaching the phelt paper, weeps out where the cosmetic metal roofing spot is, but also a sealant is applied too, so the water is shed down surface for years until sealant compromised. The custom flashing done properly, retains the ability to keep asthetics maintained. I have been doing these for 30+ years and have not had one leak yet. Check from attic to see evidence of leak from below penetration, if not, do not note as defect. With Asphalt we lexonite a cosmetic piece of shingle doing same.
Rhode Island Home Inspections 401-782-5589
http://captsized.inspectorpages2.com

I agree, but I also disagree (in red).

It the inspector cannot definatively state that the install is correct, he/she should make note of the issue on the report. Basedupon what I can see in the photo, and the OP's statement in post#1, there is nothing else evident.

In this situation, I would not not note as a potential defect, because if you're wrong, you're screwed when it does start leaking.

You have observed, now notate.

[Anthony Divello]

Good points. I stand corrected.

[Frank Albert]

It's wrong. Even if using oversized panels, a metalsmith/roofer would modify the installation to ensure the water can exit the roof. I've never passed one of those, nor done one in a way that ensures water will go under the roof like that one does.