Roof leak investigation in Leckhampstead, West Berkshire

Roof leak investigation in Leckhampstead

We investigate roof leaks in Leckhampstead and across London and the South East. We visit on any day of the week. We look inside and out, at flashings, valleys, chimneys, gutters and flat roof details. The findings come in a written report with photos. If water is coming in now, catch it in a bucket and keep it away from lights and sockets, then ring 07833 053749 or drop us an email to arrange a visit. We survey rooflights and dormers, chimney stacks and lead flashings, and the problems we’re asked to look at most are drips in the loft during heavy rain and water that shows only in certain storms.

In a village or hamlet like Leckhampstead, older cottages and farmhouses often have roofs that have been patched over many years. That makes it hard to tell new damage from old wear, which matters if you’re thinking of an insurance claim. We check whatever is safely visible and set out what we find. Older walls and timbers hold water for a long time, so it is worth finding the cause soon.

The report records the leaking roof as we found it on the day. That makes it useful now and a handy reference later, such as when you want to compare after future work.

How it works

There isn’t much for you to do on the day. Point out anything you’ve noticed, such as stains, drips or loose pieces, and we will get on with the inspection. The survey itself takes between one and two hours for most homes, though a hard-to-trace leak can take longer. Cottages and farmhouses around Leckhampstead often have roofs at several levels, with lean-tos and outbuildings attached. Each part is looked at from wherever it can safely be seen, and anything we cannot see is noted.

1. You tell us where the water appears, when, and what the weather was doing.
2. We examine the damp area and the rooms near it.
3. From the roof space, we trace the water’s route where there is safe access.
4. Outside, we check flashings, valleys, chimneys, gutters and flat roof details from every safe vantage point.
5. You receive a report with the likely source, photos and recommendations.

Before we arrive

• Keep pets inside or away from the areas we are looking at
• For a flat or shared roof, check access with whoever owns or manages the building
• Gather any invoices or paperwork from past roof work

Arrange a survey

Once you know what you need, call 07833 053749 or drop us an email. From there it is a case of choosing a package, agreeing the price and fixing a day, weekday or weekend.

Ask for a survey

Advice

• Chimney Stack Defects: Flaunching, Pots, Leans

Before and after the survey

From years of surveys, a few habits stand out as worth the effort:

• Mention any plumbing above the damp area
• Keep a photo record of the damp patch
• Record whether it leaks in every downpour or only some
• Move stored items away from the hatch

We email the report to you, with photos of what we found. It explains the likely entry point, the route the water takes and our recommendations. Basic reports come within 48 hours, Standard within 24 to 48 hours and Premium the same day.

Don’t block the vents at the eaves. Air movement keeps condensation down, and condensation is a common false alarm. Check insulation doesn’t block airflow at the eaves.