Should I have the roof inspected before buying a house?
A specialist roof inspection can be useful when the roof is older, difficult to view or has been flagged as a concern during the buying process. It can provide more detailed information about visible roofing defects and help a buyer understand potential repair costs before committing.
Why buyers commission one
Roof defects are among the more expensive things to discover after completion, and a survey will often flag the roof for further investigation rather than examine it closely.
A dedicated roof inspection gives you a specific account of the covering, details and, where accessible, the roof space, with photographs you can share with your solicitor or use in negotiation.
Timing it well
Commission it early enough that the findings can inform your offer or your questions to the seller, rather than arriving after everything is agreed.
Where access is limited or the roof is high, aerial photography is often the practical way to see the whole surface.