Roof defects are not always straightforward.

Water entering a property may travel some distance from the original point of failure, while apparently minor defects around valleys, parapets, flashings and roof junctions can result in significant internal damage.

Level3HomeSurveys Ltd provides independent inspections of pitched and flat roof defects to residential properties.

When might a roof defect survey help?

A focused roof inspection may be appropriate where you are experiencing:

• recurring roof leaks
• damp staining beneath a roof
• slipped or damaged slates or tiles
• defective flashings
• leaking valleys
• problems around chimneys or parapets
• flat roof failure
• defective gutters or outlets
• condensation within roof spaces
• concerns regarding recently completed roofing work
• disagreement over whether roofing repairs are adequate
• problems identified by another surveyor or contractor

Understanding where the problem starts

The visible leak is not necessarily where the roof defect is located.

This poorly designed roof has cause problems with the adjoining house

Our inspection considers the roof as a complete weathering system including, where accessible:

• roof coverings
• ridges and hips
• valleys
• flashings
• parapets
• chimney junctions
• gutters and outlets
• roof penetrations
• underlay
• roof ventilation
• roof timbers
• insulation
• adjoining roof junctions

Poorly designed valley gutter and blocked valley had cause rainwater ingress

We also consider previous repairs and alterations where these may be contributing to the problem.

Pitched roofs

Slate and tiled roofs can develop problems through age, poor detailing, inappropriate repairs or defective installation.

Typical issues include:

• slipped or poorly fixed slates
• inadequate headlap
• defective valleys
• inappropriate mortar repairs
• failed leadwork
• poorly installed dry ridge or hip systems
• inadequate ventilation
• defective eaves detailing
• problems where new and older roof coverings meet

Flat roofs

Flat roofs require particularly careful detailing around outlets, upstands and junctions.

Neglect can have consequences. This flat roof had torn felt and rainwater continually saturated timber soffit boards beneath

We inspect commonly used systems including bituminous felt, asphalt, GRP and single-ply coverings.

Problems can include:

• ponding water
• failed laps or joints
• insufficient falls
• defective outlets
• inadequate upstands
• blistering
• splitting
• incompatible repairs
• deterioration at roof edges and penetrations

Recently completed roofing work

We can also inspect roofing work where a homeowner has concerns regarding the standard of workmanship or whether repairs have been completed satisfactorily.

Our role is to provide an independent assessment of the visible construction and defects rather than represent either the homeowner or contractor.

Where appropriate, we can identify items requiring further attention and advise on reasonable remedial measures.

What you receive

Following the inspection, we can provide a written report covering:

• defects identified
• the most probable cause of leakage or deterioration
• the significance of the defects
• likely repair requirements
• areas requiring further investigation
• practical recommendations for remedial work

Where access permits, photographs will normally be included to illustrate significant findings.

Practical Construction Experience

Roofing defects often arise from detailing rather than simply the age of the covering.

The practice is led by an MRICS Chartered Building Surveyor with extensive previous construction experience, providing a practical understanding of roofing materials, junctions and repair methods.

Arrange an Inspection

If you have a recurring roof problem or concerns regarding roofing work, send us photographs and a brief description of the issue.

We can advise whether a focused roof defect inspection would be suitable.