We were recently instructed us to attend a semi-rural property located in North Shropshire to undertake a Level 3 - Building Survey. This semi-detached property recently had a large, two-storey extension added on the side elevation. However, the original parts of the property dated back to the early 1800s. Due to excellent weather conditions that day, our surveyor (being a registered PfCO drone pilot) took advantage of using a drone to identify possible defects from above to the various roof coverings and chimney stack.

On completing the site survey, all site photographs, including drone imagery, where uploaded and submitted to our client online. Additionally, our initial site observations where provided over the telephone prior to the release of their report.

Whilst various observations were identified at this property (which were not overly concerning or uncommon for a property of its age), there were concerns over the original roof covering.

Many of the original natural Welsh slates had slipped throughout the original roof covering (front & rear sloping roof planes). Additionally, a large opening was found just below the ridge tiles, allowing rainwater ingress into the roof structure itself. Whilst various 'temporary' remedial works had been undertaken to the roof covering over successive years; these works had now largely failed. The roof was suffering from extensive nail rot throughout and the lime torching, struck to the underside of the roof covering (between the timber battening and slate) had now largely failed throughout. Overall, the condition of the original slate roof covering was poor and required immediate remedial works being undertaken, to prevent further distress to the structure itself.

A good quality slate roof can be expected to last longer than most other roof coverings, typically they should last over 100 years providing they are correctly built and don't suffer any physical damage. However, time and weather will leave their mark on a slate roof and slates can become damaged or loose. This roof required immediate attention on occupying the property and was budgeted for by the client.

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