Last reviewed 30 October 2026. General guidance, not legal advice.
First steps
- Write down what you can see. Where the leak shows inside, when it happens (heavy rain, wind), and what you can see from the ground: slipped tiles, a gap at the chimney, a sagging gutter. Don't go on the roof.
- Take photos from the ground. From each side, and a zoomed photo of the problem. Add the inside damage.
- Note how to get to it. How many storeys, whether a scaffold can go up on every side, and anything in the way such as a conservatory.
- Send every roofer the same brief. Post one job with the photos, or send the same words to each roofer you contact, so every price is for the same work.
- Ask each one the same questions. Is the scaffold or access in the price? Will you send photos of what you find? What happens if you find more damage? What written warranty do you give? Do you have public liability insurance?
- Compare written quotes line by line. Put them side by side: access, materials, the work, waste, the warranty and when payment is due. The lowest number isn't always the same job.
Be wary of doorstep offers
Be careful with anyone who knocks, says they noticed a problem with your roof and offers to fix it today. Take their details, and get other quotes. If you agree a job in your home, you usually have 14 days to cancel under the Consumer Contracts Regulations.
Building Regulations
Replacing more than a quarter of a roof usually has to meet the Building Regulations. A roofer in a competent person scheme can sign that off; otherwise your council's building control does. Listed buildings and conservation areas have extra rules.
Paying
Agree in the quote when payment is due. Paying in full before work starts is a risk. Keep the written quote, the warranty and any photos together.
Find the right trade
Sources
- National Federation of Roofing Contractors
- TrustMark
- The Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013
- GOV.UK: Building Regulations approval