Roofing decision guide

What to do when a roof starts leaking

Keep people away from an unsafe ceiling or wet electrics. Move belongings only where it is safe, use a container for drips and record where water appears. Do not climb onto the roof. Note rainfall, wind direction and timing because the visible mark may sit away from the entry point. A first enquiry should describe the property, roof section, urgency and previous work. Ask any attending contractor to separate immediate weatherproofing from diagnosis and permanent repair, then confirm the written scope before further work.

Before contacting a roofing service

Prepare the full postcode, property type, affected roof section, timing, urgency and previous repair history. Share only safe photographs. Mention access limits and whether you can authorise work. This evidence helps a contractor plan an inspection without pretending that an online description proves the cause.

Before accepting work

Ask for a written diagnosis and scope. Confirm access, protection, disposal, exclusions and how extra work is approved. Check official requirements against the property and proposed work. A clear document gives both sides the same reference when the roof is opened and at handover.

Describe the roofing job