As the leaves begin to turn and the weather gets that distinct chill, UK homeowners know that the roofing system is about to face its toughest test. High winds, heavy rain, and the inevitable snow and ice of the British winter can quickly expose any hidden weaknesses in your roof structure. Completing an annual roof health check in early autumn is arguably the most important piece of maintenance you can do to avoid costly emergency repairs in the new year.
This checklist is your savvy guide to preparing a roof for winter, helping you to identify issues early, and know when to call a professional for a full, peace-of-mind inspection. Being proactive is the kindest thing you can do for your home.
1. Clear your gutters and downpipes (The quick win)
Blocked gutters are the number one cause of water damage to external walls and foundations. When gutters are clogged with autumn leaves and moss, water overflows, soaking the fascia boards and external walls, which can quickly lead to penetrating damp inside the house.
Your action plan: Gutter cleaning and repair
- Do it yourself? If you have a single-storey extension or a low-level property, you can use a ladder (safely anchored) to scoop out debris.
- Look for signs: Check if water is overflowing during heavy rain. If so, they are blocked.
- The Pro Touch: For high-level or difficult-to-reach gutters, hiring a professional for gutter cleaning and repair is safer and more effective. They can also use water tests to ensure the downpipes are clear.
- Bonus Check: Ensure all joints and seals are tight. A tradesperson can quickly reseal or replace small sections of damaged guttering for a minimal cost.
2. The visual inspection from the ground (DIY roof check for homeowners)
Before calling a professional, homeowners can carry out a simple roof check using binoculars from the ground. Look for tell-tale signs of distress:
| Area to Check | What to Look For | What it Means |
| Tiles/Slates | Missing, slipped, or cracked tiles. Slates that appear ‘out of line’. | Vulnerable points for water ingress. Requires immediate repair. |
| Chimney Stack | Cracking mortar joints, damaged flaunching (the cement crown), or loose lead flashing where the chimney meets the roof. | Water will track down the chimney stack and into the roof void. |
| Ridges and Hips | Mortar that is crumbly, cracked, or missing entirely (if the roof is traditionally bedded). | Wind and water can exploit gaps; a sign the ridge needs to be re-bedded or dry-fixed. |
| Fascia and Soffit | Peeling paint or damp patches under the gutter line. | Evidence of persistent gutter overflow or a leak in the underlying roof structure. |
| Flat Roofs | Signs of flat roof ponding (standing water) or visible blisters/cracks in the membrane. | Ponding needs to be corrected to avoid premature material failure and leaks. |
If you spot any of these issues, it is time to bring in the experts.
3. The professional roof inspection
For genuine peace of mind and an in-depth roof health check, hire a professional roofer to inspect the entire structure. They have the safety equipment and knowledge to spot the subtle issues you might miss.
| Professional Inspection Element | Why It Matters |
| Access & Safety | They use appropriate scaffolding or access equipment to safely inspect the ridge and slopes. |
| Lead Work Flashing | They will check the crucial seals around dormers, valleys, and chimneys, which are common failure points. |
| Underlay and Structure | They inspect the attic/loft space for signs of water ingress, sagging timbers, and condensation issues (mould/damp patches). |
| Fixings Check | They check that ridge and hip tiles are secured, often replacing old, perished mortar with a modern dry-fix system for superior wind resistance. |
| Moss Removal Advice | Excessive moss can trap water and lift tiles. A professional can advise on safe, low-pressure cleaning methods. |
The costs
An annual roof inspection is a worthwhile investment. Think of it as an insurance policy. A minor repair now could save you thousands in water damage later.
- Average Inspection Cost (Visual, full report): £150 – £350
- Adding Gutter Clearance: +£50 – £100
- Minor Spot Repairs (e.g., 2-3 slipped tiles): £200 – £450 (often completed during the same visit)
Prices vary depending on the size and height of the property and your location in the UK.
By staying on top of your home’s maintenance and choosing a knowledgeable professional, you ensure your roof is ready to face the worst the UK winter can throw at it, keeping your home dry, warm, and secure.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today
