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How much do roofers charge in London?

Roofing London • Nov 11, 2024

How much do roofers charge in London? If you have searched for this, then you have come to the right place. If you’re a homeowner in London, understanding the costs associated with roofing services will help you plan and budget effectively for roof maintenance and repairs.


Buildings in London come with unique architectural styles and building structures, from Georgian townhouses in Kensington to Edwardian terraces in East London. The roof designs across these properties vary widely, and so do the associated repair and replacement costs.


This guide covers the types of roofing common to London properties, the typical costs of roofing work in the city, and factors that can influence pricing, along with tips for finding a reputable roofer in the capital.


Factors Affecting Roofing Costs in London

Several unique factors affect roofing costs in London, specifically due to the types of properties common in the capital and the market demand for roofers.


Type of Property and Roof Design

  • Victorian and Edwardian Terraces: Found in neighbourhoods like Notting Hill and Hampstead, these properties typically have pitched roofs with slate or clay tiles. Repairs and maintenance on these steep roofs can be challenging, which may drive up labour costs.
  • Georgian Townhouses: Characteristic of areas like Kensington and Chelsea, Georgian homes often have flat or low-pitched roofs and use materials such as lead or copper. Repairs on these roofs are often complex and require specialist knowledge, especially for listed buildings.
  • Modern Apartments and Flats: Many new-builds and modern flats in Canary Wharf or Southbank have flat roofs using materials like EPDM or GRP. Flat roofs are often less expensive to repair, but may need more frequent maintenance.


Materials Used

  • Slate Tiles: Common on Victorian and Edwardian roofs, slate tiles are durable, but require skilled installation, especially on intricate or steeply pitched roofs. The average cost for slate roofing in London ranges from £120 to £150 per square meter.
  • Clay Tiles: Also popular on traditional London terraces, clay tiles cost slightly less than slate at around £100 to £120 per square meter.
  • Lead Roofing: Typical for Georgian properties, lead is more expensive due to its durability and specialist installation requirements, costing from £150 to £250 per square meter.
  • Flat Roof Materials: Materials such as EPDM rubber, GRP fiberglass, or traditional felt are commonly used for flat roofs on modern buildings. Costs for flat roofing in London range from £40 per square meter for felt up to £90 for EPDM or GRP.


Access and Scaffolding

Access to London properties can be challenging, particularly for houses on narrow or busy streets. Many London-based roofers will factor in the cost of scaffolding, which can add an additional £700 to £1,500 to your bill depending on the property’s height and location.

For properties in high-density areas or heritage buildings with strict regulations, scaffolding requirements can be even more elaborate, increasing costs further.


Average Costs of Common Roofing Jobs in London

Here’s a breakdown of what London homeowners can expect to pay for various roofing services:


Roof Repair Costs

  • Minor Repairs (e.g., fixing a few missing or damaged tiles): Prices start around £100-£250, depending on the materials and accessibility.
  • Medium Repairs (e.g., partial re-roofing): For replacing damaged sections on Victorian or Edwardian roofs, costs typically range from £500 to £1,000.
  • Major Repairs or Full Roof Replacement: On average, a full replacement for a slate or clay-tiled roof on a terraced London property can cost between £8,000 and £12,000. For Georgian townhouses, which may require lead or copper materials, costs can be significantly higher, often ranging between £10,000 and £20,000.


Flat Roof Replacement

For a typical flat roof of 32 square metres in London, you can expect to pay an average of approximately £5,000-£7,500. The typical options for flat roofs include:

  • Felt Roof Replacement: Costs between £100-£125 per square meter, making it one of the more affordable options for flat roof repair.
  • EPDM (Rubber) Roof: Costs between £175-£200 per square meter and is more durable than felt.
  • GRP Fiberglass Roof: One of the premium options for flat roofs, costing between £250-£300 per square meter, and suitable for properties needing durability and a sleek finish.


Average Roofing Day Rates in London

  • Standard Roofing Work: £250 - £350 per day
  • Specialist Roofers (e.g., for slate, leadwork, or heritage properties): £300 - £400 per day
  • Labourers/Assistants: £150- £200 per day


Factors Affecting Day Rates in London

Experience and Specialization: Highly skilled roofers with experience in slate or leadwork on period properties tend to charge more.

Type of Roofing: Slate, lead, and flat roof specialists can command higher rates due to the technical expertise required.

Location: Roofers working in central or high-demand areas, like Kensington or Chelsea, may charge higher rates due to travel and logistical costs.

Seasonal Demand: Rates can rise during peak roofing seasons, usually spring and autumn, when demand for repairs and installations increases.

Complexity of Access: Roofs requiring extensive scaffolding or other special access measures can result in higher day rates, as roofers often need to account for added time and equipment.


How much do roofers charger per hour in London?

Standard Roofer: £30 - £40 per hour

Specialist Roofers (e.g., slate, lead, or heritage roofers): £40 - £50 per hour

Labourers or Roofing Assistants: £15 - £25 per hour


Keep in mind that roofers may also charge a minimum call-out fee, often equivalent to 2-3 hours of work, particularly for small repairs. Additionally, any scaffolding, materials, or waste disposal services required are typically charged separately from the hourly labour rate.


Emergency Roof Repair Costs

London roofers typically charge a premium for emergency repairs, especially during stormy seasons. Basic emergency call-out fees start at around £250, with repair costs added on top depending on the damage.


Roof Survey Costs

For a roof survey following a home buyer's report, you can expect to pay in the region of £350-£500. This cost can usually be claimed back off any roofing work booked in with the same company. In addition, you can typically deduct any associated roofing costs from the purchase price of the property. Make sure to negotiate with the vendor if your property requires any substantial roofing works.


Quotation Costs

Generally, most roofers in London will provide you with a quotation for free, giving you the option to decide if you wish to go ahead with the work or not, without making a financial commitment. Roofers may charge to provide a quotation in instances, such as for emergency work, or for a roof survey following a home buyer's report.


Costs for deposits

Most roofers will ask for a deposit to secure a booking slot for your work and to help pay for any upfront materials. Generally, a deposit will cost you in the region of 10% of the overall cost for the work and this amount will be deducted from your final bill.


Additional Costs to Consider

London’s unique market conditions and regulations mean there are additional costs to consider when budgeting for roofing work:


Waste Disposal and Permits

Some local councils in London require permits for roofing waste disposal, adding around £100 to £300 to your bill if a skip is required. In highly urban areas, like Central or East London, permits for skips can be more costly or restricted altogether.


Inspections and Structural Reinforcement

Many older London properties may require a structural inspection before roofing work begins, especially if repairs are extensive. Structural reinforcements or timber replacement on an aging Victorian or Georgian roof can add another £1,000 to £3,000 to the project.


VAT and Insurance

In London, VAT at 20% is typically added to the total cost. Be sure to ask roofers if VAT is included in their quoted price to avoid unexpected additions.


Reputable roofers will carry insurance to cover accidental damage, which may be factored into higher quotes.


How to find a reputable roofer in London

Given the high demand for quality roofing work in London, finding a reputable roofer is essential. Here are some tips for selecting the right contractor:

  • Seek Local Recommendations: Ask neighbours or friends in London for recommendations, as local roofers will be familiar with the area’s architecture and any specific regulations to your borough.
  • Verify Credentials and Insurance: Reputable roofers in London should hold insurance and relevant accreditations, such as National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) membership.
  • Compare Quotes: Obtain at least three quotes from different roofing companies to ensure competitive pricing.
  • Check Online Reviews: Sites like Trustpilot, Checkatrade, or Google Reviews can provide insights into the experiences of other London homeowners.



Conclusion

Roofing in London can be a significant investment, but it’s essential for maintaining the integrity and value of your property. With various architectural styles and material choices, roofing costs vary widely, from minor repairs costing a few hundred pounds to major installations or replacements that may run into the tens of thousands. By understanding these costs and factors, homeowners in London can plan ahead and make informed decisions that protect both their homes and budgets.


Investing in a reliable, skilled roofing company will ensure that your London property remains safe, resilient, and true to its unique architectural charm.


For a competitive quote for your roofing work, call our Roofers London team today.

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By Hightop Roofers London • 14 Oct, 2024
As a roofing expert serving London, I often see homeowners and business owners overlook the maintenance needs of flat roofs, especially as we transition into autumn. While flat roofs offer great functionality and a sleek modern look, they require special attention during the colder, wetter months—particularly in a city like London, where autumn can bring heavy rain, falling leaves, and unpredictable weather. With that in mind, let’s look at some key considerations for flat roof maintenance in London this autumn, focusing on two crucial areas: drainage and waterproofing. 1. Drainage: Keeping Water Where It Belongs Flat roofs may appear level, but they are designed with a slight slope to allow rainwater to drain off properly. However, as autumn sets in and leaves start to fall, these drains can easily become blocked, leading to standing water—or “ponding.” This is a common issue on flat roofs in London, where the combination of heavy rain and tree debris can overwhelm your drainage system. What You Should Do: Clean Your Drains and Gutters Regularly: The best way to prevent ponding is by ensuring that your gutters, downspouts, and internal drains are clear of debris. If these get clogged, water can back up onto the roof, creating pressure points and eventually causing leaks. Inspect for Standing Water: After a heavy rain, check your roof for any pooling. Standing water may not seem like an immediate threat, but over time it can degrade your roofing material, leading to costly repairs. Consider Installing Additional Drains: If you’ve had issues with drainage in the past, now is a good time to think about installing additional drains or scuppers. More drainage points can help distribute water flow and reduce the risk of overloading any one area of the roof. 2. Waterproofing: Ensuring a Watertight Seal One of the biggest threats to flat roofs, particularly in autumn and winter, is water infiltration. Flat roofs don’t shed water as easily as pitched roofs, which means they rely heavily on proper waterproofing systems to keep moisture out. London’s frequent autumn rains make it crucial to inspect your roof’s waterproofing layer to ensure there are no vulnerabilities that could lead to leaks. What You Should Do: Check the Roof Membrane: Most flat roofs in London use a waterproof membrane—such as EPDM, TPO, or bitumen. Over time, these membranes can crack, blister, or become punctured, allowing water to seep through. Autumn is the perfect time to get up on the roof (or call a professional) to check for any signs of wear or damage. Inspect Flashing: Flashing is the material used to seal joints where the roof meets walls, chimneys, or other protrusions. Flashing is particularly vulnerable to cracking or loosening over time. If this happens, water can easily find its way into the structure. Make sure all the flashing is secure and in good condition before autumn’s rains hit hard. Recoat if Necessary: If your flat roof is covered with a liquid-applied waterproofing system, such as liquid rubber or a polyurethane coating, it may need to be recoated every few years. This coating helps to keep the roof watertight and in top condition. If you notice the coating starting to wear thin or peel away, it’s time to have it refreshed. 3. Addressing Common Autumn Issues for Flat Roofs In addition to drainage and waterproofing, there are a few other autumn-specific issues that London flat roof owners should keep in mind: Debris Buildup With leaves, twigs, and other debris falling throughout October and November, it’s important to regularly clean your roof surface. Piles of debris can trap moisture against the roof, leading to algae or moss growth, which can degrade your roofing materials over time. Thermal Contraction Autumn in London often brings fluctuating temperatures, which can cause flat roofing materials to expand and contract. Over time, this thermal movement can lead to small cracks or splits in the roof membrane, especially if the roof has already been weakened by previous weather conditions. Be on the lookout for these stress points during your inspection. Prepare for Winter Autumn is the ideal time to make any necessary repairs or improvements before the harsher winter months arrive. 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Preparing Your Roof for Autumn in London: Essential Maintenance Tips

By Hightop Roofing London • 22 Sep, 2024
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If not cleared, this buildup can block the proper flow of rainwater, leading to water pooling on your roof or overflowing near your home’s foundation. This can cause leaks, mold growth, and even structural damage. To avoid these issues, have your gutters and downspouts thoroughly cleaned before the rainy season kicks in. A professional roofer can safely clean your gutters, ensuring water drains efficiently away from your roof and walls. 2. Check for Roof Debris and Moss Growth In addition to clearing out your gutters, it’s important to ensure that your roof itself is free from debris like leaves, branches, and moss. Over time, moss and algae can grow on roofs, especially in the damp London climate, which can weaken shingles or tiles and trap moisture against your roof’s surface. Rather than risking injury by climbing onto your roof, a professional roofer can inspect and remove debris and moss. 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Falls from roofs can cause serious injuries, and without the right experience, you may unintentionally cause more damage. Professional roofers in London are trained to handle these tasks safely and efficiently. By hiring a professional roofer, you’re not only ensuring your roof is well-maintained, but you’re also protecting your own safety. London’s roofers are familiar with the unique challenges of the local climate and can offer expert advice on how to best protect your roof through the autumn and beyond. Conclusion Preparing your roof for autumn in London is an essential part of home maintenance. From cleaning your gutters to inspecting for damage, these steps can prevent costly repairs and ensure your home stays safe and dry throughout the season. However, always remember to leave roof work to the professionals. 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