Make a better roofing decision.

1. Repair or replace: ask what is actually failing

Start with the condition of the roof, not its age or a sales package. One failed junction and a roof with widespread defects need different proposals.

• Ask for photographs locating each confirmed defect and the limits of the inspection.
• Ask whether a repair would address the cause, and what parts of the roof it would leave untouched.
• If both options are viable, request separate repair and replacement scopes so the comparison is meaningful.
• Include repeated access costs and previous unsuccessful repairs in the discussion; do not assume an unverified remaining lifespan.

2. Understand the complete roof cost

A square-metre rate cannot describe the whole job. A small roof with difficult access, multiple junctions and hidden deck repairs can differ substantially from an uncomplicated roof of the same area.

• Separate covering area from floor area; the two are not interchangeable.
• Check scaffold, access over extensions, waste removal, insulation and ventilation.
• Identify chimneys, leadwork, valleys, rooflights and solar equipment that need coordination.
• Ask how hidden timber or deck repairs will be evidenced, priced and approved.
• Compare the total payable with VAT treatment and exclusions stated in writing.

3. Slate or tile: compare the complete specification

Choose a specific product suited to the roof and property. Material names alone do not establish roof-pitch suitability, loading, fixing requirements or the finished appearance.

• Ask for the proposed product name, colour and a sample where appearance matters.
• Confirm pitch, exposure, fixing specification and compatibility with existing details.
• If changing the covering, ask whether loading, planning or heritage constraints need assessment.
• Compare underlay, battens, insulation, ventilation and perimeter details alongside the covering.

4. Flat roofs: assess the build-up before the brand

Felt, EPDM and other membranes are parts of a system. A new surface will not by itself correct a defective deck, poorly designed drainage or an unsuitable insulation arrangement.

• Record the proposed deck, falls, outlets, insulation and vapour-control arrangement.
• Ask whether strip-and-renew or an overlay is proposed and what evidence supports retaining existing layers.
• Check rooflight kerbs, wall junctions and thresholds against the finished roof height.
• Compare written workmanship and product cover, exclusions and maintenance requirements.

5. Put responsibilities in writing before accepting

Confirm the contracting company, full price, payment terms, programme assumptions and variation process. Agree who handles the applicable Building Regulations route and which completion documents you will receive. Planning permission and Building Regulations approval are separate matters.