Roof inspection services · Sussex
A closer view of the roof, where a drone is suitable.
Aerial photographs can make hard-to-see roof details easier to assess. The important part is understanding what those images show—and what they leave unanswered.
Seeing the detail
What aerial photography can help record.
- The visible arrangement and condition of tiles, slates or other roof coverings.
- Accessible views of ridges, hips, verges, chimney junctions and rooflights.
- Visible surface damage, displaced materials or debris around drainage routes.
- The relationship between the main roof and extensions or dormers, where the flight and view allow.
The useful output is not just a large folder of pictures. Agree whether you need photographs alone or an interpreted written roof report, and which areas must be covered.
What a drone cannot establish from above.
A camera cannot look through a covering to confirm every batten, fixing, underlay, deck or timber. A dry-looking surface is not proof that the construction beneath it is dry or sound. Images also cannot, by themselves, certify structural adequacy.
If the concern involves a concealed leak route or internal evidence, the inspection may need another viewpoint or a separately agreed investigation. Our roof leak inspection page explains why symptoms and timing matter.
The property decides whether a flight is practical.
Weather, nearby people, trees, overhead wires, take-off space and airspace restrictions all affect the plan. An airport restriction zone may require permission. The assessment is made for the actual address and proposed operation, rather than the town name alone.
Tell us about access constraints before a visit is booked. If the intended flight cannot be carried out, the next step may be a different date, a revised scope or an alternative inspection method. Agree the implications for fees and reporting in advance.
Compare the report as carefully as the equipment.
Before you enquire
Your questions, answered.
Does a drone remove the need for scaffolding?
It may reduce the need for initial access just to obtain a view. It cannot replace safe access for repairs or every close physical inspection.
Can a small drone fly anywhere in Sussex?
No. Aircraft size does not remove all airspace, site or safety requirements. Suitability must be checked for the address and flight.
Can aerial photographs prove where water is entering?
They may identify relevant defects, but the visible defect and the leak route are not always the same. Further investigation may be needed.
Will I receive video as well as photographs?
Discuss the output when requesting the quote. Video, still images, annotated photographs and written interpretation are different deliverables and should be specified.