Pre-Purchase Roof Survey in Chafford Hundred

How a pre-purchase roof survey works in Chafford Hundred

With a written roof report, you can go back to the seller or agent with specifics. You might ask about past repairs, ask for work to be done before completion or think again about your offer. We can’t say how a seller will respond, but you will be asking from facts rather than guesses. It can also help you decide whether the purchase is still right for you. If you’ve noticed lead that has worked loose at a wall or chimney and bitumen or mortar used in place of proper repairs, we can find out what’s behind it, on chimney stacks, flat-roofed extensions and dormers and natural slate alike.

In a smaller place like Chafford Hundred, homes are mostly houses and bungalows, from older cottages to more recent builds. Older roofs may still have their original slates or clay tiles, with fixings and underlay that have done a long stint. For a purchase or a newly replaced roof, what’s under the coverings matters as much as what’s on top. Breathable membranes only appeared in the late 1990s, so older roofs often have bitumen felt or nothing at all.

After the visit, you get a report with photographs, sent by email. It explains the condition of the roof, the defects we found and what we recommend.

What happens on the day

The visit usually starts outside and finishes in the loft: outside views come first, then the roof space if there is safe access. All told, expect between one and two hours at the house you’re buying, depending on its size and how much of the roof can be seen. For a survey in Chafford Hundred, we agree the time, the access and parking before the day. Visits can be on weekdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Tell us about any garages, outbuildings or extensions you want included.

1. Once your offer is accepted, you tell us the address and when you hope to exchange.
2. We arrange access with you, the agent or the seller, including the loft.
3. We start outside, looking at the roof from ground level and from vantage points.
4. We then look from upstairs windows and inside the loft where it is safe.
5. The report is emailed with photos and recommendations, ready to use before exchange.

Before the survey

• If you’re buying, let the agent know when we are coming
• For a flat or shared roof, check access with the freeholder or managing agent
• Leave a clear route to the loft

Booking a survey

We confirm the exact price before booking, so you know the cost up front. Prices start from £150, including VAT. To book, phone 07833 053749 or drop us an email.

Book your survey

Advice

• Victorian Terrace Roofs in London: Common Defects

What affects the price in Chafford Hundred

Every roof is different, so prices are confirmed before booking. This is what makes a difference:

• The use of thermal imaging or a drone
• Chimneys, valleys, parapets and other details
• Whether you choose the Basic, Standard or Premium Survey
• House, block, shop or office

Every price we give includes VAT, and the written report is part of the package. Our price is from £150, including VAT. Where your roof sits in the range depends on its size, height and access.

Booking your survey

A little information up front helps. It helps to include:

• The kind of building and roof involved
• The property’s address and postcode
• What made you get in touch
• Any photos you have, taken from the ground or a window

Unsure which package suits your roof? It’s easiest to phone 07833 053749 or use the contact form and describe the roof and what’s worrying you. We’ll explain the options and the price.