Questions
Roofing questions, answered straight
The roofing questions people ask us most, and the ones they search before they call: how to pick a roofer, how prices work, planning permission, leaks and insurance. If yours isn’t here, call or text.
Roofing questions
Choosing a roofer
How do I tell a good roofer?
Read a roofer’s reviews in full on an independent site, ask them to show you what’s wrong (photos help) and agree the price before any work starts. Be wary of anyone who knocks on your door saying they’ve spotted a problem.
Can I read all of your reviews?
Yes. All our reviews are on Checkatrade and MyBuilder.
Do you charge to come out and quote?
Quotes are free, with no obligation (it’s on our Checkatrade profile). If anything else would be charged, such as making a roof safe before a repair, we’ll tell you before we do it.
Roofing questions
Costs and timing
How much does a roofer charge?
Most roofing is priced per job, not per hour, because the cost depends on what’s wrong, the materials and how the roof is reached. We look first and give you the price before any work. See roof repairs and new roofs.
What time of year is best to replace a roof?
Roofs can be replaced all year round. Drier months make the weather easier to plan around; in winter the work is planned day by day around the forecast.
How long does a roof repair last?
It depends on the roof and what failed. Patching a stain rarely stops a leak, which is why we look for the cause first. If a roof is past repairing, we’ll tell you.
Roofing questions
Permission and rules
Do I need planning permission for roof work?
Repairs and re-roofing like for like don’t normally need planning permission. Listed buildings, conservation areas with Article 4 directions, and changes to the shape or height of a roof can need permission or consent, so check with your council first.
Do building regulations apply to a new roof?
They can, for example when a large part of a roof is renewed, because insulation and structure rules may apply. Check with building control before the work starts.
Can you re-roof over an existing flat roof?
We prefer to strip the old covering so the deck underneath can be checked and replaced where it’s rotten. See flat roofing.
Roofing questions
Leaks and emergencies
My roof is leaking. What should I do first?
Move things away from the drip, put a bucket under it and, if water is near a light or socket, switch that circuit off, but only if the fuse box is dry and safe to reach. Don’t go on the roof. Then call or text with where the water is showing. See roof leak repair.
Is a leaking roof covered by home insurance?
It depends on your policy and the cause. Sudden storm damage is often covered; wear and tear usually isn’t. Check with your insurer. Our photos of the damage can help.
More roofing questions? Ask us
Call 07460 082167 or text us or send us the form. Or read about chimney repairs and fascias and guttering.