Reliability shows in how a roofer behaves before any work starts. Here are plain things to ask for and expect from any roofer working on a Filton home.
Roofing is hard to judge from the ground, so you rely on the roofer's honesty and method. Filton has a mix of inter-war, post-war and modern homes, and each type of roof has its quirks. Whoever you choose, there are sensible things to ask and to expect before you agree to anything.
Start with a proper look
A reliable roofer wants to see the roof and the loft before saying what is needed. A quote over the phone for a roof they have not seen is a guess. Expect a close look at the problem area and the roof as a whole, with photographs if possible, and a plain explanation of what they found. Photographs from the ground can show slipped tiles, sagging gutters and loose flashings before anyone goes up.
What a written description should say
Ask for the work described in writing, in plain language, so you can compare it with other roofers. It should say what is to be done, where, with which materials and what is not included. It should also say what happens if hidden damage turns up. A vague note that says only a number is not enough.
- What will be repaired or replaced, and where
- Materials and fixings to be used
- How access and scaffold will be arranged
- What happens if extra work is found
Explaining what is urgent
A good roofer separates what is urgent from what can wait. If a leak needs stopping now, they say so. If a ridge can wait a season, they say that too. Be wary of pressure to decide on the spot or of every job being described as an emergency. You should leave understanding the roof better than before. If a roofer cannot say what can wait, ask again.
How they work on site
Ask how access will be arranged, how the site will be kept safe and tidy, and how your garden and drive will be protected. A roofer who answers clearly is usually one who works carefully. Photographs of the work before, during and after give you a record of what was done.
Questions worth asking
Ask how long they have been working in the area without expecting a headline figure, and whether they can show recent similar work from the ground. Ask who will carry out the job and who you speak to if there is a problem. Plain, direct answers are a good sign. Any work may need planning or Building Regulations checks — we advise before work starts.
Take your time over the decision. Write down the questions you want answered, keep every written description and compare them side by side, line by line. A roofer who is confident in their work will not object to any of that, and will usually welcome the questions. Ask what will happen on the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get more than one opinion?
For larger jobs it is sensible. Compare what each roofer says is wrong and what they propose, not just the totals. Differences in description often explain differences in what is offered. Ask each of them the same questions.
Is a roofer who knocks on the door reliable?
Be careful. Roofers who turn up unasked and say the roof is in danger often have no reason to know. A roof you have not asked about is best looked at by someone you contact yourself. Check who actually carries out the work.
Can a roofer check the roof without going up?
Some things can be seen from the ground, such as slipped tiles, sagging gutters and flashings. A close look, usually with photographs, is still needed for a clear diagnosis. Photographs of the work in progress are easier to judge than a verbal account.
Talk to our team about general roofing services in Filton
Every roof is different — the fastest way to get an accurate answer is a quick chat with our team.