Signs Your Roof Needs Repair

Roofs rarely fail suddenly. Most give clear warning signs — the trick is knowing what to look for from ground level, from the loft, and inside the house.

Slipped or missing slates and tiles are the most visible sign, especially after a storm. Look for straight lines that have gone crooked, dark patches where underlay is exposed, or debris on the ground below.

Sagging ridge lines suggest failed bedding mortar or timber movement. A ridge that dips in the middle needs attention before it takes a course of tiles with it.

Damp patches in the loft — especially around chimneys, valleys or roof windows — usually mean flashing or lead detailing has failed. Torch inspection after heavy rain is the fastest diagnostic.

Blocked or overflowing gutters aren't just a gutter problem — water backing up under the tiles causes damage to fascias and wall heads.

Moss and lichen aren't harmful in themselves, but heavy build-up traps moisture and accelerates freeze-thaw damage.

If in doubt, a drone inspection gives complete coverage without scaffolding — you get evidence rather than opinion.