Is it sensible to install a new roof?

FreeBear

Sophie4120 said:

DettaWalker said:

What does the council need to know? Isn't a repair without planning / building regs?


Thanks

If you are replacing more than 50%(?) of the roof, you will need building control sign-off. Just make sure you contact them before work starts/finishes, else you may have to pay more for regularisation (as we found out!).

It is 25%.

Building Control may want to see extra insulation added to the loft space to bring you up to current recommended levels. A few rolls are not a huge expense, so worth doing. With the tiles off, you can make sure the insulation is right up under the eaves (just make sure ventilation isn't compromised).

Not the best time of year to be stripping a roof though - If you can wait until spring, the weather should be better. Also take advantage of the scaffolding and do any other work high up at the same time (gutters, fascias, etc...)

DettaWalker

Mutton_Geoff said:

I don't understand why he needs a 40% deposit. Most builders/roofers have 30 day accounts with suppliers so he should be able to order the scaffolding, get the replacement tiles, felt & batten on site and get the job started before their invoices need to be paid. At a push make stage payments, ie when materials have been left in your front garden. I never expose myself credit wise with any builder, they have already supplied materials or labour to the value of before I pay any bills.

I think it's also a case of not wanting rogue customers who refuse to pay. but definitely something I need to discuss with him further. He did say we can put the deposit down on CC - now that would offer some sort of protection..?

BUFF

Yes, Section 75

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/section75-protect-your-purchases/

Mutton_Geoff

DettaWalker said:

I think it's also a case of not wanting rogue customers who refuse to pay. but definitely something I need to discuss with him further. He did say we can put the deposit down on CC - now that would offer some sort of protection..?

Strange. It's not as if they don't know where you live. I've been rebuilding houses for over 40 years and don't recall ever paying such a large amount up front. When trades do invest in large value materials (kitchens/bathrooms), then I agree to pay when materials are delivered to site (my house) and I have possession of them.

I reckon there are more rogue builders than there are rogue customers!

goodwithsaving

If it needs doing, I'd just get it over with. I kept repairing the roof at my previous house and ended up having a re-roof. Best thing ever. Made the property so much smarter, warmer and gave great peace of mind. I miss that roof....

newatc

goodwithsaving said:

If it needs doing, I'd just get it over with. I kept repairing the roof at my previous house and ended up having a re-roof. Best thing ever. Made the property so much smarter, warmer and gave great peace of mind. I miss that roof....

I was about to say the exact same thing. After several repairs, I finally took the plunge and for once I felt it was money well spent.