On October 22, 2008, I met with two representatives of a restoration company to inspect a residential shingle roof covering. The roof was allegedly “wind damaged” in its entirety (according to the roofers) who had convinced the homeowner to turn in an insurance claim, although the roofers could show me only two wind-damaged shingle tabs.
After I introduced myself as an engineer of a local engineering firm and a graduate of Purdue, one of the roofers exclaimed that he was an engineer as well. Being curious, I asked where he obtained his degree, to which he answered “Ball State University”.
Having some knowledge of Ball State University, as I was accepted to the Architectural School there, I further asked if he was a Licensed PE, to which he replied yes, specifically stating, “I’m a Licensed Public Engineer”.
Ball State does not offer engineering degrees but only some preparation courses for engineering. Additionally, a “Licensed PE” is actually a “Licensed Professional Engineer”. There is no such thing as a “Licensed Public Engineer”, and this is not an appropriate representation, don’t be fooled.
I have also encountered roofing individuals wearing shirts labeled “Haag Certified Inspector”. While Haag Engineering does issue a certificate for attending their class, they do not “Certify Inspectors” nor do they allow individuals outside of their company to advertise their company name on clothing or other items. This is false representation.
I am advising concerned folks of these tactics in case these individuals are encountered, or others are encountered using similar tactics, who may attempt to deter you from retaining a true Licensed Professional Engineer in future relevant matters.
Why would you want an Engineer over a roofing inspector? Engineers generally have only one purpose in their Professional life: TO BE RIGHT. We have no monetary gain (or loss) in telling you there is something wrong (or right) with your roof. We take an oath to protect the Public Welfare and Safety. We have many years of education in materials (including asphalt, at least Civil and Structural Engineers often do). Our expertise is not limited to experience who installing shingles (which is fairly simple) or to a one-day class or seminar.
You may feel that it is not feasible to retain an engineer, however, if have had a new roof installed, I would strongly recommend that you have it inspected by a qualified engineer before youpay for it, otherwise, you may have a poorly-installed roof. Most of the roofs that I look at have AT LEAST a few defects, and some are complete nightmares that need to be torn off and re-applied. If your roof has been installed using a pneumatic nail gun, chances are that the nails have not been properly placed.
Finally, to get the best price, try to find an engineer who lives or works close to where you need the inspection done as costs generally include the drive time. Also get an estimate so that the cost is limited.
William M. Norman, PE, SE (Licensed Professional Engineer/Licensed Structural Engineer)
BSCE Purdue University, 1986 - KEELER-WEBB ASSOCIATES
Carmel, Indiana
