Roof leak investigation in West Barnes, Greater London

Roof leak investigation in West Barnes: what you get

Most roof leaks start at a joint rather than the middle of a slope. Flashings at chimneys and walls, valleys, gutters, parapets and flat roof upstands and outlets are the usual suspects. We check each likely route and follow the evidence. Every chimney, dormer and roof light adds more joints to check. Each one is checked from wherever it is safe to see it. We survey chimney stacks, slate and tile slopes and flat roof details, and the problems we are asked to look at most are damp underlay across a wide area and water marks that spread in wet weather.

Many London homes are well over a century old and their roofs have been patched more than once, so a new leak can be the latest sign of wear rather than a single event. Insurers typically exclude wear and tear, so it’s useful to know whether damage is old or new. A careful look in West Barnes tells the two apart where the evidence allows. A written record with photographs helps you explain what was found to whoever deals with it next.

Where we can’t see part of the leaking roof, the report says so. That way, it’s clear what was covered and what wasn’t, and what we’d suggest next.

What affects the cost of roof leak investigations

Prices always include VAT. The things that change the price are:

• Extensions, dormers and garages with roofs of their own
• Whether thermal imaging or a drone is needed
• Chimneys, valleys, parapets and other details
• Whether it’s a home or a commercial building

A Basic Survey starts from £150, including VAT. The Standard Survey starts from £250 and the Premium Survey from £400, both including VAT. We confirm the price for the job before booking.

Helping us price your survey

Before you get in touch, it helps to have:

• Your postcode, so we can check access and travel
• The reason for the survey, such as buying, a leak or storm damage
• Dates you’re working to, such as exchange
• Anything about access we should know

Buyers should book once an offer has been accepted, so there is time to use the report before exchange. For any other survey, just ring 07833 053749 or use the contact form when you’re ready.

The survey, step by step

We check the roof from outside and, where it is relevant and there’s safe access, from inside the roof space too. Inside, we look for staining, damp, gaps and signs of movement, as far as the space allows. All in, the survey usually takes between one and two hours for most homes, though a hard-to-trace leak can take longer. In a London conversion, the way into the loft space is frequently from a communal landing or the top flat. If that applies to your building, it is useful to agree access with the neighbours or the managing agent first. Everything else is planned around the building, not the postcode.

1. We start with what you’ve seen: where the stain is and when it gets worse.
2. The visit starts indoors, at the stain and in the loft.
3. Outside, we check every likely route in.
4. We use moisture detection, and thermal imaging where it is useful.
5. You receive a written report with photos showing the likely source and what needs attention.

Preparing for the visit

• Point out any leaks or damp patches
• Make a note of anything you’d like us to look at
• For a flat or shared roof, check access with the freeholder or managing agent

Arrange a survey

A quick phone call is normally the easiest start: call 07833 053749 or email us. The price is agreed before a date is set.

Book your survey

Advice

• Condensation or a Roof Leak? How to Tell
• Chimney Stack Defects: Flaunching, Pots, Leans