Costs & quotations

Do roofers charge for surveys and quotations?

Short answer: Some quotations are free; detailed reports, testing, drone work or invasive investigation may carry a fee. The difference should be explained before attendance.

What this means in practice

Compare quotations line by line, including VAT, scaffold, waste, exact products, insulation, ventilation, leadwork, timber allowances, Building Control, payment terms and guarantees. A low total created by missing essential work is not a saving—it is an unpriced variation waiting to happen.

What to check next

  • Confirm whether you need a quote or formal report
  • Ask what the fee includes
  • Do not expect destructive investigation in a basic visit

When should you ask a roofer to inspect it?

Get a measured, written quotation before committing to substantial work. Ask questions wherever wording is vague, and insist that hidden defects are photographed and priced for approval before extra work proceeds, except where immediate safety action is unavoidable.

Safety first: do not climb onto a roof without suitable access, training and protection. Keep clear of loose coverings, unstable ceilings and water near electrical fittings.

Technical content reviewJ & L Welch Roofing & Paving Services Ltd · Over 20 years of combined roofing experienceReviewed 28 August 2026 · How our answers are produced

Would you like a property-specific answer?

Request an inspection and written quotation from J&L Welch.

No deposit is required. Payment is due on completion within seven days, with the agreed scope and price confirmed in writing.

Request a quotation