Roofing

Expert advice on roof repairs, maintenance, replacements, storm damage and everything homeowners need to know about keeping their roof safe, secure and weatherproof.

How to Choose the Right Roofer for Your Home

6th February 2026

Your roof is one of the most important features of your home. It shields you from the elements and helps to keep your property insulated. If you need a minor repair or an entire roof replacement, choosing the right roofer for your home is essential so that the work is carried out safely and to a high standard.

There are so many tradespeople out there, and it can be confusing where to begin. If you’re wondering how to find a good roofer in your area, read on to see how we recommend finding the best trader for the job.

Look for Experience and Specialisms

The roofing trade is a big umbrella. It covers a multitude of skills such as repairing slipped tiles to working on period properties. Before you get in touch with your roofer, you should always check that they have the experience you need. For instance, a roofer who has expertise in flat roofing may not be the best choice for a pitch roof. Reputable builders will be more than happy to let you know of their experience and provide examples of previous work that aligns with what you are looking for.

Check Reviews and Take Recommendations

A quick win to judge a roofer's quality of work is to read customer reviews and feedback. Proper, honest feedback can give you the insight you need to get to know their professionalism and capability.

It’s also ideal to take recommendations from neighbours or family members, as if someone you trust has had a positive experience, it can make you feel more confident in your choice. If you don’t have a recommendation or you’re new to the area, then our trader reviews can offer this peace of mind.

Verify Qualifications and Insurances

Roofing is a dangerous trade. It’s important that anyone you hire is correctly trained and insured. Always check that your roofer has public liability insurance to protect you in case of accidents or damage. Some may also hold relevant certifications or be trade body members, which helps to add peace of mind and show their commitment to high standards of work.

Get a Detailed Written Quote and Ask about Warranties

Finding a good roofer isn’t just about experience and insurance. Another element people quickly forget is to obtain a detailed quote; this is key in order to find a good roofer. Never rely on a verbal estimate. When getting in touch with companies, make sure they provide a clear, written quote that breaks down all the costs of labour, materials, and any added charges. This helps you to understand exactly what you are paying for and provides an extra layer of security against unexpected added charges later on.

Always be on the lookout for quotes that seem unusually low. It’s great to save money where possible, but overly cheap offers can indicate poor quality materials or dodgy workmanship.

In terms of warranties, a trustworthy roofer will stand by their craft. It’s good peace of mind when a trader is confident in their work and materials. Always question if they offer a guarantee on labour and materials and how long it lasts for, in the event that something extra needs doing or fixing later.

Compare Multiple Businesses Before Making Your Decision

Always request multiple quotes to make sure the roofer you are choosing is the best fit for you and the job at hand. Weigh up the costs and experience before booking. Remember, the best choice isn’t always the cheapest; it’s the roofer that offers the best value and proof of top work.

Wherever you live, it’s good to compare traders carefully. For example, if you were based in the West Midlands, you might want to compare roofers in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire to see who matches the criteria best. Taking the time to do your research and weighing up your options can help make sure your roof is in safe hands for years to come.

All our tradespeople have been vetted by us, so you know any TrustATrader roofer is one you can trust. To find a roofer in your area, use the search function at the top of this page.

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Looking for more roofing advice?

Find clear, practical answers to common roofing questions, helping homeowners understand everyday issues, know what checks they can carry out safely, and when it is best to contact a qualified professional.

How do I know if my roof needs repairing or replacing?

A few broken tiles or a small patch of damaged flashing? That's usually a repair job. But if your roof is over 20 years old, leaks keep coming back in different spots, or you're seeing sagging or widespread cracking, replacement is probably the smarter long-term call. A proper inspection from a roofer will give you a straight answer before you commit to anything.
What are the signs of a leaking roof I shouldn't ignore?

Water stains on ceilings, damp patches on walls, mould in the loft, or daylight peeking through the roof boards - all worth acting on quickly. A musty smell upstairs can also point to a slow leak, even when there's nothing visible. Roof leaks don't fix themselves, and the longer they're left, the more damage they do to insulation, timbers, and your ceilings.
Is moss on my roof a serious problem?

Not an emergency, but don't leave it too long. Moss holds moisture against the tiles, which can work its way underneath and cause cracking in winter. It'll also block your gutters if it spreads far enough. Getting it professionally cleaned and treated is the way to go - it's not a job to DIY given the risks of working at height.
What happens if I delay getting my roof repaired?

Small problems get expensive fast. A few displaced tiles can leave the felt underneath exposed to weather damage, and even a minor leak can cause timber rot, saturate insulation, and eventually ruin ceilings and walls. What could've been a straightforward repair becomes a much bigger project the longer you leave it, so it's best to get it sorted sooner rather than later.
How do I temporarily protect my home if my roof is damaged in a storm?

If tiles are missing or water's getting in, the priority is limiting the damage until a roofer can get to you. A heavy-duty tarpaulin over the affected area is your best bet - make sure it extends well past the damage and is secured so it doesn't lift in the wind. Inside, move furniture out of the way, put buckets down, and use towels to manage any water coming through. Don't go up on the roof yourself as wet tiles are dangerously slippery.
What types of roofing materials are best for UK homes?

Clay and concrete tiles, natural slate, and EPDM rubber for flat roofs are the most common on UK homes. Clay tiles are durable and handle our freeze-thaw winters well - though they're heavy, so not every roof can take them. Slate looks great and can last over a century done properly. For flat or low-pitched roofs, EPDM rubber has largely replaced traditional felt because it holds up much better against UV damage and standing water. The right call depends on your roof's pitch, your property's age, and what the structure can support.
How quickly can I get an emergency roof repair?

Most roofers offer emergency callouts, but response times vary. In quieter periods, someone might get to you within a few hours. After a big storm when everyone's calling at once, you might be waiting a day or more. If there's a delay, get a tarpaulin over the damage in the meantime. One thing to watch: be wary of anyone who knocks on your door unsolicited after a storm offering to check your roof - it's a well-known scam.
What are green roofs and are they worth it?

A green roof has a waterproof layer topped with soil and plants - usually sedums or grasses for a low-maintenance version, or something more garden-like if you want to go further. They insulate well, soak up rainwater, and are good for local wildlife. They can also extend the life of the waterproofing underneath by shielding it from sun and temperature swings. Whether it's worth it depends on your roof's structure and what you're hoping to get out of it. Installation needs to be done professionally - a leak underneath a green roof is a far bigger headache than on a standard flat roof.

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