For building owners and facilities managers with responsibility for commercial or industrial buildings, understanding the condition of your roof can be essential to managing long term roof maintenance costs. A physical roof survey provides a detailed, hands-on assessment of your roof’s condition, with a specialist roof surveyor examining elements of the roof directly on site. This guide covers what a physical roof survey involves, benefits, and what one is likely to cost.
What is a Physical Roof Survey?
A physical roof survey is a hands-on roof inspection in which an experienced roof surveyor assesses the roof’s condition in person. Moving carefully across the full extent of the roof, a roof surveyor examines key roof elements which may include the waterproofing membrane, flashings, drainage outlets, rooflights, upstands, parapets, and fixings, noting any roof defects and building a photographic record of the roof as they go.
Benefits of a Physical Roof Survey
A physical roof survey can offer a number of advantages for building owners and facilities managers looking to understand the condition of their roof and plan any necessary roof maintenance or remedial works.
Hands-On Roof Inspection
With a specialist roof surveyor physically present on the roof, they can examine roof components by hand, allowing potential roof problems to be identified and assessed in person.
Report of Roof Defects
A roof surveyor can make informed judgements about the nature and severity of any roof problems identified, producing findings that can give building owners a solid basis for planning roof remedial works.
Roofs of Varying Complexity
Whether a roof is straightforward or more complex in its layout, materials, or detailing, a physical roof survey allows a roof surveyor to cover areas of the roof methodically, with additional time spent on any roof sections that need closer attention.
Detailed Roof Condition Report
Following the roof inspection, you’ll often receive a roof condition report documenting everything observed on site. This typically sets out the overall condition of the roof, photographs of any roof defects or concerns, and a prioritised list of recommended roof works.
Frequently Asked Questions About Physical Roof Surveys
How Much Does a Physical Roof Survey Cost?
Pricing for a physical roof survey may vary depending on a number of variables, including the roof’s overall size and any roof access requirements.
What Does a Physical Roof Survey Report Include?
A physical roof survey report, often referred to as a roof condition report, typically includes an overview of the roof’s current condition, photographs of any roof defects or areas of concern identified during the roof inspection, and a schedule of recommended roof works prioritised by urgency to support your roof maintenance planning.
How Long Does a Physical Roof Survey Take?
Timescales may vary depending on the size and layout of the roof in question. A smaller or less complex roof can often be completed within half a day, whereas a larger building with multiple roof areas could require a full day on site or more.
Book a Physical Roof Survey Today
Our specialist team of commercial roof surveyors operates nationwide, covering commercial and industrial buildings of all sizes. Whether you require a straightforward roof inspection or a more detailed assessment of a complex roof, get in touch today to discuss your requirements and get a quote tailored to your needs.