Poor connections at chimney and dormers
Leaky transitions at chimney and dormers often lead to expensive moisture damage – especially where they were adapted later.
Roof covering finished: what can still be checked
With the covering complete, most of the roof build-up is sealed. What remains checkable is whatever is visible from outside and from the loft. For the hidden layers you need photos from the construction phase.
The most common expensive defects on the finished roof
Shifted or broken tiles
Individual tiles slip during laying or break. From below this is barely noticeable, yet water still finds its way.
Missing securing at ridge and verge (lateral roof edge)
Without correct fixing, ridge tiles and edge trims come loose in a storm.
Gutters and downpipes without sufficient fall
If water stands in the gutter, it overflows and loads the facade and plinth.
What you should document and check now on the finished roof
All roof faces from a distance
Photograph the roof from all sides of the plot, ideally in good light.
Zoom into connections and penetrations
Photograph each connection (chimney, dormers, vents) once completely and once close up in detail.
Inspect the loft from inside
Check only from a safe access for damp patches, daylight coming through and loose parts – ideally after heavy rain.
Request photos of the hidden layers
Ask in writing for the construction-phase images of membrane, insulation and connections.
Check gutters and downpipes during rain
Look during or immediately after heavy rain: Does water stand in the gutter or is it overflowing? One photo is enough.
Even a finished roof can be checked
Upload your photos: you will receive pointers on typical weak spots at connections, covering and roof edges.