Frequently asked questions

Move belongings and collect dripping water only where it is safe. Keep away from wet electrical fittings and a visibly sagging ceiling. Record the position and timing of the leak without climbing onto the roof. Explain the weather conditions and any previous repairs when calling. A temporary measure may be separate from permanent repair; a message does not confirm an emergency appointment.

Compare the same roof sections and tasks before comparing prices. The total should explain materials, preparation, removal, access equipment and finishes, with clear exclusions and a process for approving additional work.

Where does the water appear, when did the problem start and what has already been repaired? These details help trace its possible route. A temporary seal, repair of the cause and restoration of interior finishes are separate parts of the job.

A local repair makes sense when damage is limited and the surrounding material can support a reliable connection. We therefore assess the edges of the damaged area too. Recurring problems or several older repairs may call for investigation of a larger roof section.

Start by establishing which parts of the roof can remain. Renovation does not necessarily mean removing everything, but replacing only the visible covering may leave other problems unresolved. The proposal should describe retained layers, necessary changes and connections to gutters, walls and roof openings.

Choose a covering around the roof shape and existing build-up, then compare fastening, connections and maintenance needs. A material name or price per square metre does not describe the whole job. Edges, outlets and penetrations should be identifiable in every proposal you compare.

Blisters, loose seams and recurring ponding each require investigation. Adding another bitumen layer does not by itself repair problems beneath the covering. First establish which layers are dry, secure and usable, then specify the new seams, upstands and outlets.

With EPDM, corners and connections deserve particular attention. The membrane, adhesive, fastening and detail pieces need to form a suitable system. Ask how wall junctions, roof edges and outlets will be finished and which existing materials will remain below the new covering.

A PVC proposal should explain membrane fastening and seam construction, including compatibility with existing roof layers. Identify rooftop equipment early: it affects the positions of penetrations and the access needed to carry out the work.

A broken tile is different from a worn-out tiled roof. We check whether matching replacement tiles are available and assess ridges, valleys and junctions. For wider renewal, the proposal should also describe battens and underlay so you know what happens beneath the tiles.

Explain how you use the space below the roof and whether the covering is also due for renewal. This helps compare work from inside and outside. Specify the insulation material, thickness and intended thermal resistance, along with connections to the existing layers.

Useful maintenance records show what was inspected, what was cleaned and which defects need repair. Agree these tasks separately: a maintenance visit does not automatically include repair work. Photographs by roof section help compare later changes with earlier findings.

Set the purpose before the inspection: investigating a leak, planning maintenance or preparing renovation. The report should distinguish visible findings, possible causes and components that could not be examined. This makes the basis and limits of the advice clear.

Does the gutter overflow, or does water drip from a joint? This distinction helps the investigation. We consider debris, joints, brackets and the downpipe connection together. A replacement proposal should state whether downpipes and repairs behind the gutter are included.

Identify the component first: chimney flashing, a gutter, coping or cladding. We then assess the material and adjoining building parts. The proposal should describe corners, end pieces and connections too; a material price alone does not establish that these are included.

Moisture beside a chimney can involve several components. Masonry, pointing, the top cover and roof flashing should therefore be assessed separately. State whether the flue is still in use: flue work requires different expertise from repairs to the external masonry and roof junction.

Ridge repairs concern both the ridge tiles and their fastening. Filling a crack may be insufficient if components are loose. We assess the affected ridge section and explain which tiles can remain, which need replacement and how the finish meets the roof tiles.

First explain whether water is entering or loose parts present a danger. Take photographs only from a safe position. Temporary measures and permanent repairs are discussed separately, along with availability and any surcharges. Keep damage photographs and repair documents for your insurer.

Start with the suitability of the existing roof before choosing plants. The plan must consider the weight of wet layers, waterproofing, drainage and maintenance access. Ask which assessments are still needed before committing to a vegetation system.

Is the aim to stop a leak, add daylight or improve operation? This determines what needs assessment. Replacement requires measurement of the opening and upstand. Check whether shading, controls and interior finishes are included; they are separate from the roofing connection.

Group reports by building and roof section, with one contact for access and questions. A useful proposal separates urgent repairs, planned maintenance and optional improvements. Agree who may approve work and variations for the owners’ association and how residents will be informed.

Establish the purpose of cleaning: clearing an outlet, removing surface debris or treating deposits on tiles. The method must suit the material and its condition. Cleaning does not repair cracks, loose parts or defects beneath the covering; these need separate assessment.

Roof replacement needs a description of both the old and new build-up. Which layers are removed, which supporting parts remain and which connections are renewed? Agree temporary protection and how unexpected damage will be documented before additional repairs begin.

On a slate roof, the laying pattern also determines how a repair fits the existing surface. We assess sizes, fastening and details around windows, edges and ornamentation. Marco specialises in slate roofs and leads the team. Agree patterns and details to retain before work starts.

Zinc work is tailored to the roof shape. The substrate, fastening, seams and junctions matter alongside the visible surface. Marco specialises in zinc work. Discuss the intended appearance and retained components before fabrication so the dimensions and detailing match the agreed design.

A drawing or reference image helps define copper copings and ornaments. Record the shape, dimensions and visible finish. Fastening and connections to other materials also need assessment. The proposal can then describe the complete component, including corners and end pieces.

Moisture around a dormer may involve its roof, cheeks or window junctions. Describe where the problem appears and which parts you want renewed. Roofing, frames, glazing and interior finishes are separate items whose inclusion should be clear in the quotation.

New fascia cladding improves the finish but does not itself repair damaged timber behind it. The support and connections to gutters and roofing need assessment too. Agree material, colour, corner pieces and any repairs behind the fascia before work starts.

Damage to roof decking may become fully visible only when the covering is opened. Photographs and a defined repair area make the findings understandable. Decking and supporting beams are different components; concerns about the load-bearing structure require assessment by a structural engineer.

Describe the rainwater route: roof surface, outlet, downpipe and the connection below it. State where water collects or escapes. The proposal should identify where the work ends and whether cleaning, repair or replacement has been agreed.

A valley drains water between two roof slopes that fall towards each other. Assessment includes adjoining tiles or slates and the ends of the valley. Ask which areas must be opened for repair and how the surrounding roof will be reinstated.

State whether the garage is detached or attached to the house and whether it is heated. This helps assess junctions and any insulation plans. Even a small roof needs a complete description of edges, drainage and existing layers.

For an extension, the junction with the existing house needs attention alongside rooflights and penetrations. State whether the space is heated and whether damp appears near the wall. Discuss insulation or rooflight replacement at the same time as the roofing work.

Work on a commercial roof must fit the use of the building. Identify equipment, access requirements and sensitive spaces below. The proposal can separate urgent repairs from planned maintenance or replacement, with agreed phases and a contact during the work.