A magnetic detector includes permanent magnets that magnetize a wire rope W in the longitudinal direction, and a search coil that detects a change in the cross sectional area of the wire rope W magnetized by the permanent magnets. The magnetic detector is provided so as to surround a part of the wire rope W. Prior to inspection, the magnetic detector is moved back and forth at least three times across an inspection range of the wire rope W. After the magnetic detector is moved back and forth, the change in the cross sectional area, that is, damage to the wire rope W is inspected by using signals outputted from the search coil.