Contents

1. What is a roof inspection
2. How inspections save money
3. Signs you need an inspection now
4. How often to inspect in Milton Keynes
5. Common local issues we find
6. Regulations and homeowner guidance
7. Our step-by-step inspection process
8. Pricing and what affects costs
9. Why choose Maxwells Roofing
10. DIY checks vs professional inspections
11. Quick preventative checklist
12. Frequently asked questions
13. Book your free inspection

What is a roof inspection

A roof inspection is a structured assessment of the external covering, roofline, and relevant internal areas to evaluate condition and risk. The goal is simple – find small problems before they become costly repairs. At Maxwells Roofing, your inspection includes a clear visual survey, safe access at height where appropriate, and internal checks in the loft to spot water ingress or ventilation issues.

• External covering – tiles or slates, ridges, hips, valleys, fixings, flashing, chimneys, leadwork, roof vents, skylights, and flat roof membranes such as EPDM, GRP, and felt.
• Roofline – gutters, downpipes, fascia and soffits, joints, brackets, falls, and signs of overflow or staining.
• Internal checks – loft damp or staining, mould, wet insulation, daylight ingress, and airflow paths for healthy ventilation.

Where needed and safe to do so, we capture high-resolution photos to show findings clearly. You receive a plain-English summary with priorities so you know what to do next and why.

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How inspections save money

Routine inspections reduce costs in six practical ways:

1. Early leak detection – A slipped tile or split flashing is quick to fix when spotted early. Left untreated, it can lead to damp insulation, damaged ceilings, blown plaster, and electrical issues.
2. Longer roof lifespan – Small repairs prevent accelerated wear. Many tiled and slate roofs outlast expectations when maintenance is proactive.
3. Lower energy bills – Damp or compressed insulation and poor ventilation increase heating costs. Inspections keep insulation dry and airflow balanced so the house stays efficient.
4. Fewer emergency callouts – Winter storms and high winds can expose weak points. Fixing vulnerabilities in advance reduces the chance of urgent, last-minute work.
5. Insurance and warranty confidence – Documented upkeep helps demonstrate responsible maintenance if you need to make a claim or rely on a product warranty.
6. Protect property value – Surveyors look closely at roofs during a sale. A clean history of inspections and repairs helps avoid renegotiations and delays.

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Signs you need an inspection now

• Visible missing, cracked, or slipped tiles and slates
• Water marks on ceilings, loft damp, or a musty smell
• Gutters overflowing in rain, sagging, or leaking at joints
• Debris in gutters such as slate flakes or tile fragments
• Flat roof ponding, blisters, ridges, splits, or exposed edges
• Chimney mortar crumbling or loose chimney pots
• After storms or strong winds across Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire
• Roof older than 15 years, or before buying or selling a property

If any of these apply, do not wait for the next downpour. A quick inspection today can prevent a leak tomorrow.

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How often to inspect in Milton Keynes

For most homes in Milton Keynes we recommend a professional inspection every 12-24 months, plus a check after severe weather. Properties with mature trees, older coverings, or a history of leaks benefit from yearly visits. Landlords and property managers often schedule inspections to align with tenancy changes so issues do not linger between occupants.

Timing matters. An autumn inspection pairs well with gutter cleaning and pre-winter checks, while a spring follow-up confirms the roof came through winter without hidden damage.

Common local issues we find

Working daily across Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell, and nearby villages, we see patterns linked to local property styles and weather exposure:

• Tiled roofs – wind-lifted verge tiles, ridge mortar fatigue, and cracked interlocking tiles after storms.
• Slate roofs – nail fatigue that lets slates slip, broken slates near eaves and valleys, and aged flashings around dormers.
• Flat roofs – insufficient falls causing ponding, edge detail failures, and blisters where water or air is trapped.
• Chimneys – weathered pointing and failing lead flashings that track water behind the brickwork.
• Roofline and gutters – joint leaks, sagging brackets, blocked outlets, and grass or moss that indicates persistent moisture.

If broader issues appear, like poor loft ventilation or inadequate insulation, we provide simple, practical guidance to fix root causes and maintain a healthy roof space.

Regulations and homeowner guidance

Roof inspections themselves do not require Building Control, but any repair or replacement work must follow current guidance. We advise in line with Approved Documents and manufacturer instructions, selecting durable materials suited to your property and exposure.

• Structure – Like-for-like repairs maintain integrity. Significant changes to covering weight or structure may require assessment.
• Moisture control – Details should shed water, prevent tracking, and reduce condensation risk through suitable ventilation.
• Ventilation and energy – Balanced airflow keeps the roof space dry. Where larger areas of covering are replaced, insulation upgrades may be advised for long-term efficiency.
• Fire performance – Materials and build-ups should meet appropriate fire resistance requirements for your roof type.

If your project needs notifications or inspections, we will guide you through the process and coordinate with the right people so work proceeds smoothly.

Our step-by-step inspection process

1. Initial call – We note your roof type, concerns, and access details. If there is an active leak, we prioritise promptly.
2. On-site survey – We arrive on time, complete safety checks, and confirm access for a thorough visual assessment.
3. External checks – Tiles or slates, ridges, hips, valleys, flashings, chimneys, roof penetrations, skylights, and flat roof membranes.
4. Roofline – Gutters, downpipes, fascia and soffits, falls, joints, and signs of overflow or staining on walls and eaves.
5. Internal check – Loft inspection for staining, damp, insulation condition, and telltale daylight where it does not belong.
6. Photos and findings – We show you clear images with a simple explanation of what is urgent, what is sensible to plan, and what to monitor.
7. Options and quote – You receive transparent pricing and practical options. If minor fixes are feasible on the day, we often complete them there and then.
8. Maintenance plan – If you prefer, we set a sensible inspection interval and a gutter care schedule to keep everything on track.

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Pricing and what affects costs

Inspections and quotes are free across Milton Keynes and nearby areas. If repairs are recommended, the price depends on access, roof type and size, material choice, and the complexity of details such as valleys, chimneys, skylights, and abutments.

There are no hidden extras. We explain options in plain language and show how a preventative repair now often avoids a larger bill later. For larger refurbishments or renewals, we provide a clear programme that covers lead times, site setup, and expected duration so you can plan with confidence.

Why choose Maxwells Roofing

• Family-owned and local – Led by Luke Maxwell, we are a Milton Keynes company that takes pride in fast response and friendly service.
• Proven reputation – 80+ 5* reviews on Checkatrade and 5* reviews on Google Business.
• Qualified and insured – Work is completed by trained roofers using industry-approved methods and quality materials.
• Clear communication – You receive photos, a written summary, and straightforward pricing without pressure.
• Built for the long term – We focus on durable solutions that suit your property and budget.

Most of our work comes from local recommendations. We would be pleased to help you next.

DIY checks vs professional inspections

From ground level, you can safely spot obvious issues like slipped tiles, blocked gutters, or moss growth. Use binoculars rather than climbing ladders, and never walk on a roof – it is dangerous and risks damage. A professional inspection adds safe access, experienced diagnosis, photos, and practical guidance that prevents small issues turning into big ones.

Quick preventative checklist

• Clear gutters and downpipes at least once a year, ideally in autumn
• Trim overhanging branches to reduce debris load and abrasion
• After high winds, check for missing tiles, lifted flashings, or debris on the ground
• Look in the loft twice a year for staining, damp smells, or wet insulation
• Book a professional inspection every 12-24 months, and after severe weather

If you would like a simple year-round maintenance plan, we can set one up during your visit.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a roof inspection take

Most homes take 30-90 minutes depending on size, access, and roof complexity. You receive photos and guidance shortly after.

Do you use drones

Where appropriate and safe to do so, we use drone photography to capture hard-to-reach areas. Otherwise we use safe access methods from the ground or at height.

Will the inspection damage my roof

No. Inspections are non-invasive. If we need to lift a tile to confirm a detail, we refit it carefully.

How often should I get my roof inspected

Every 12-24 months, plus a check after storms. Older roofs and flat roofs benefit from yearly visits.

Do you cover my area

Yes – Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Luton, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell, and nearby villages.

Can you fix issues during the same visit

Often yes. Many minor repairs can be completed immediately. If materials, scaffolding, or dry weather are required, we schedule promptly.

Are you insured

Yes, we are fully insured to work on residential and commercial properties.

Will I get photos and a written quote

Yes. You will receive clear photos, a summary of findings, and a no-obligation quote with priorities.

Book your free roof inspection

Protect your home, reduce future repair costs, and extend the life of your roof with a trusted local specialist.

Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk.

Serving Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Luton, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell, and surrounding areas.

If you also need help with repairs, renewals, or upgrades, our team can advise on the best approach for your property and budget.

For related services, explore these helpful pages: Roof Repairs, Flat Roof Systems, Gutter Maintenance, New Fitted Roofs, and Chimney Repairs.