Both of these are incurable defects that require a discount vs. an otherwise identical property away from these defects. 

The best way to mitigate wasted time is to play the game -- don't offer to cure the defects, offer a reduction in price in exchange for release of the inspection contingency.

But a smart buyer is going to look at the roof (and other things, sewer lines are especially troublesome here) and try to beat you down on price for any defects. 

@Brian Albelli I don't know if your state requires you to disclose all known defects to your buyer or not, but my state does. 

As a liscensed home inspector I can tell you that who ever you hire to do your home inspection will not be able to find any latent defects, meaning if there is mold behind the drywall, wall paper, moldings etc, they will not (in most cases) damage the existing structure in order to find any signs of mold.

Plus, the owner could be trying to hide some major structural defects, etc. 

@David Dachtera I actually just checked some of the as is addendum for the jurisdictions I work in, a couple of the addendums state that the "as is" is only for condition of the property and does not refer to title, and a couple of them specifically mentioned that "as is" also included defective title.

I specialize in SFR, insurance restoration, construction defect and remodel.

Keep in mind as the developer, you'll be on the hook for any defect of the building if the Association files suit within the statue of limitations.

I would follow the reviews on the equipment, where there is smoke there is fire and the last thing you need is defective laundry machines and agitated tenants.