Roof Survey and Inspections

Introduction

This blog will be a guide on everything you need to know about a roof survey, the costs, the benefits and how they can fit into a Level 2 and Level 3 report.

Roof issues are often expensive because small defects can lead to leaks, timber decay, damp, insulation problems and internal staining. A good roof inspection helps buyers understand visible condition before the purchase becomes legally committed.

What is a roof survey?

A roof survey is where a surveyor will assess the condition of your roof and then follow it with a report.

This can include a traditional roof inspection where someone goes up a ladder and assesses the quality or, alternatively, a surveyor may handle it with a drone roof survey.

The drone survey is swiftly becoming more of a frontrunner in the industry as it is quicker, more effective and provides the homeowner with the pictures themselves.

How much does a drone roof survey cost?

The cost of a drone roof survey depends on roof size, complexity, access and location. Ask for a property-specific quotation.

A traditional inspection may have different access and safety costs. Compare the scope of each quotation as well as the price.

When considering the drone roof inspection cost, it can seem expensive. As the consumer, we strongly suggest you should look at getting a Level 2 or Level 3 home survey where appropriate.

Why choose a home survey over contractor roof inspections?

When considering a roof survey, it is essential to know that some contractors may offer roof inspections with the hidden motive of selling you repair services. This can lead to biased recommendations and expensive unnecessary costs.

With home surveys, there is no stress towards this type of motive as the surveyor has nothing to sell you. The advice is focused on condition, risk and practical next steps.

How roof inspections are tied into Level 2 and Level 3 surveys

Where agreed and suitable, a drone can help the surveyor record roof details as part of a wider Level 2 or Level 3 inspection.

Following the outside survey, they go in and check for any major defects on the property. The defects can range from damp issues to subsidence to instability; we check everything.

A home survey considers more of the property than a roof-only inspection. The fee and scope should be confirmed for the individual instruction.

Report length varies with the property and the findings. The useful measure is whether the report clearly explains defects, limitations and next steps.

Factors affecting inspection costs

Several factors can affect the price of a roof inspection. Common factors include the age of the home, whether the inspection is manual, ease of access, roof size, roof complexity and whether the property has multiple extensions or high-level details.

The main factor is whether you get a manual roof inspection or a drone roof survey. Access, safety and image quality all matter.

What to expect in a Level 2 roof inspection report

In this report, expect to see the roof exterior inspected with pictures. This includes gutters, chimney stacks and any debris or leaks.

There will also be information on how to repair and who to contact for any necessary repairs. Interior checks may highlight insulation, ventilation, mould and signs of leaks.

The amount of roof commentary depends on the property and its condition. Wider building context remains important.

Can you do a DIY roof inspection?

As a homeowner, it is vital you understand the risks of doing a roof inspection or roof repairs by yourself. Even though you might be tempted because it saves money, you have risks of falling or causing further damage to your roof.

If you are confident about doing it yourself, then it is important to note weather conditions and make sure you have safety precautions boxed off, including a sturdy ladder, slip-resistant shoes and someone nearby to assist.

Even though it may be cheaper to do the damage assessment yourself, the expertise professional tradespeople bring means it is probably not the smartest idea to get up there yourself.

Common roof issues

A roof can have many issues, and more often than not they exist before you notice any signs. Main issues include cracks and leaks, debris build-up, mould, storm damage, structural issues, blocked gutters and unsafe chimney stacks.

These are the main issues you should know about and be proactive about addressing to save you from a lot of money down the line. For example, cracks or leaks can result in interior damage and mould growth, while blocked gutters can lead to water overflow and damage to roof details.

It is important to do a quick check from the ground every 6 months. If there are signs of damage, call for a roof inspection.

Is a loft inspection included in a roof survey?

It generally depends on the contractor you are hiring if they are going to check the loft, so always specify over the phone that you would like your loft checking.

A Level 2 or Level 3 survey includes a loft inspection as part of the process where safe and accessible. This involves an assessment of accessible loft space, focusing on insulation, ventilation and roof structure.

The goal is to identify defects that could cause issues in the future, such as dampness, structural defects or poor insulation.

The benefits of a roof survey

The main benefit of a roof survey is a clearer understanding of visible roof condition before making repair or buying decisions.

The three main benefits are negotiation power, understanding your property and making informed decisions.

At Cadastral, we cannot stress how important it is to get a home survey, as it saves you so much time and money in the future.

When should I get a roof survey?

The best time to get a roof inspection is as soon as you can. This can be before you purchase a house or shortly after you purchase a home.

Either way, it is always best to know as much about your home as you can. As discussed, it can also give you negotiation power if serious issues are found.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, getting a roof survey is a great idea; however, a roof inspection is just one piece of the puzzle. Opting for a Level 2 or Level 3 survey offers a better understanding of your home, covering not only the roof but the entirety of the house.

By investing in a home survey, it will give you the ability to make the right decisions moving forward. If you are ready to grab a survey or just have a few questions, please do not be afraid to reach out.