Roof replacement: everything you need to know

Whether you’re replacing a damaged roof or updating the look of your home, below are our top roof replacement tips to make sure your renovation goes to plan.

If you’re ready to find approved local roofers, enter your postcode into the box below:

Your roof replacement planning checklist

Replacing your roof can be a big job, so it’s important to plan it properly. Breaking it down into key steps can help things run smoothly.

Below are the key steps to help you plan your roof replacement project.

Step 1: Assess your roof’s condition

Before you start any work, you’ll want to inspect your roof to determine the extent of any damage or wear and tear, such as leaks, missing tiles, or patches of sagging roof.

You might want to get a professional roofer to carry out a full inspection. It might save you money if they find you can repair your roof instead of replacing it.

Step 2: Prepare a budget

One of the key parts of planning a home improvement project is understanding your budget. And to do that, you’ll need to know the costs of replacing your roof.

A typical roof replacement will involve various costs, including materials (tiles, timber, fibreglass, membranes, insulation, etc) and labour.

Below are some average costs of roof replacement in the UK, based on the type of roof:

• Hip roof cost – £9,250 - £18,000 (or £145 - £285 per m²)
• Gable roof cost – £7,000 - £16,250 (or £110 - £260 per m²)
• Flat roof cost – £2,800 to £7,500 (or £45 - £120 per m²)
• New roof structure – £6,500 - £20,000 +

To find out more about roof replacement prices, check out our guide to roof replacement costs below:

Step 3: Find an experienced local roofer

Finding the right roofer for the job is essential. You want to hire a roofing expert with plenty of experience, good reviews, and appropriate insurance coverage.

We always recommend getting quotes from at least three tradespeople. That way you can ensure you’re being quoted fair and competitive costs for the job.

Ask for a roof plan for the project

When speaking to local roofers, ask them to provide a detailed plan for the job that includes the following:

• Detailed measurements and drawings of the roof structure, which should include ridges, valleys, slopes, and architectural features
• The type of roofing material your project is going to use
• Any necessary flashing, draining, or ventilation components and where they plan on fitting them
• Framing details, such as the dimensions and styles of windows and skylights

It’s useful to understand exactly what they’re quoting for and it helps you compare quotes from different tradespeople.

Ready to get started? Enter your postcode in the box below to browse a list of approved roofers in your area:

Step 4: Get planning permission (if needed)

Depending on where you live and the type of roof you’re installing, you may need to apply for planning permission.

This is particularly important if you live in a Conservation Area or you’re changing the material of your roof. If in doubt, check with your local planning office.

Step 5: Agree on a contract for the job

Once you’ve found the roofer you want to hire, make sure they provide you with a detailed contract for the project.

It should include:

• Scope of the work
• Materials they’re going to use
• Timeline
• Payment schedule
• Details of what happens if there are delays or additional costs

Having everything in writing protects you and your roofer, and means you both understand what will be covered in the project.

Step 6: Prepare your home

Replacing your roof can get messy and noisy, so you’ll want to prepare your home before your tradespeople start work.

Some key steps to take include:

• Clearing your loft of any valuables
• Protecting your garden with tarpaulin
• Warning your neighbours of the work that’s about to begin
• Potentially consider staying elsewhere while the roof is being replaced

By preparing your home ahead of time, you can help the project run smoothly with minimal stress and hassle.

Step 7: Monitor the progress

Throughout the roof replacement work, it’s helpful to keep an eye on the progress. That way you can make sure the work is being carried out as agreed in the contract.

If you have any doubts or concerns, ask questions and highlight any issues you see. You can also check that the materials being used are what you have chosen.

Step 8: Carry out a final inspection

After all the work is done and your new replacement roof is finished, carry out a full inspection with your contractor.

Check for any issues and make sure that everything has been completed and cleaned up properly. When you’re satisfied that everything is as it should be you can make the final payment.

And remember to keep all your paperwork, including the contract and any warranties and permits.

Key steps for putting on a new roof

Although you might be hiring a professional to do the work, it’s helpful to understand the process of replacing a roof to know what to expect.

Here’s a summary of a tried and tested process of replacing your roof:

1. Removal of existing roof materials
2. Check and prepare the underlying structure for a new roof
3. Address any damage before the new roof installation goes ahead
4. Addition of a waterproof underlayment to protect your roof against moisture
5. Installation of your new roof materials (whether that’s shingles, panels, or tiles)
6. Your roof replacement professional will follow best practices to ensure the perfect fit
7. Flashing is installed around entry points such as chimneys and vents, then sealed so it’s watertight
8. An inspection is carried out to make sure the installation is high quality and meets all specifications

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

FAQs

Do you need planning permission for a replacement roof?

As long as you’re not changing the structural bones of your roof, it’s unlikely you’ll need planning permission to replace it.

This is especially true if you’re replacing all the materials, like-for-like.

However, don’t just take our word for it. We suggest you check with your local authority as they might have compliance and regulatory restrictions in your area you need to consider.

Related content: Do you need planning permission to re-tile a pitched roof?

Why would I need to replace my roof?

The following issues all contribute to long-term problems and can lead to you needing a roof replacement:

• Age – Time is a huge contributing factor to roof issues with common signs like missing or broken shingles or those that curl at the edges
• Leaks – Some of the most obvious signs of a leaking roof include damp and water damage to the roof deck, insulation, ceilings and/or walls
• Storm damage – Storms, high winds or snow can all cause damage that needs repairing (or sometimes replacing)
• Sagging or dropping – A sagging roof usually means it needs replacing, as you may have structural or framing issues that need fixing ASAP
• Mould or mildew – Damp or mould can pose a health risk and suggest underlying ventilation or insulation problems
• Granule loss and bald spots – Shingles that are too worn or bald will need replacing to keep your home protected
• Poor installation or previous repairs – A poorly installed roof can suffer issues with improper flashing, inadequate ventilation or poor-quality materials

How long does it take to fit a new roof?

This depends on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the roof, the type of materials being used, your local weather conditions, and the efficiency of your contractors.

The size and complexity of the roof replacement will impact the time it takes to complete the job. As a general guide, a roof replacement will take 3 – 7+ days.

A more complex roof installation can take longer to complete, especially if it involves many angles and architectural features.