In this guide
What we look at on a visible slate roof
The external inspection can record visible displaced, missing or damaged slates, together with the accessible ridge, valleys, skews, flashings and chimney details. Wider photographs put closer observations in context.
Scottish roofs vary considerably. A sandstone tenement, an older detached house and a later slate-roofed extension need a brief that reflects their actual shape and accessible details. Tell us what concerns you instead of assuming every roof can be photographed in the same way.
A photograph cannot reveal every fixing problem
The visible surface does not show all nails, fixings, underlay, battens or roof timbers. An inspection from outside therefore cannot confirm the condition of the concealed construction or establish the remaining life of every slate.
If photographs raise a concern that needs closer examination, a suitable roofer or surveyor may recommend an investigation with appropriate access. The drone report helps identify and communicate the visible areas of interest.
Build a useful maintenance record
Save the report with earlier roof photographs, repair invoices and any relevant building survey. A dated external record can help owners explain what they observed before instructing work.
For a repeat inspection, identify comparable slopes and roof features. Changes in lighting, angle or surface wetness can alter the appearance, so a difference between two pictures is not automatically evidence of deterioration or its cause.
Older, listed or shared buildings
If the roof forms part of a listed, traditional or shared building, mention that when you contact us. Any repair specification, permissions or conservation advice should come from the appropriate specialists. We do not prescribe replacement materials or grant consent for work.
For flats, coordinate the common-roof brief with the owner group or factor. Our tenement page explains how a single report can give the relevant people a shared photographic reference.
Cost and coverage
Residential surveys are £99; commercial properties are £149. The price includes the drone visit and reviewed photographic report, normally delivered within 24 hours after the survey.
We are based in Airdrie and visit covered Central Scotland postcodes. Check your full postcode below. Some locations need flight permission and unsuitable weather can require a different visit date.