Best roofers in Leeds: 3 local roofing companies

Finding a good roofer in Leeds

Finding a roofer can be hard, because the best roofing companies are busy and many jobs are quoted from the ground. A good roofing contractor will look at the roof's condition properly, often from a ladder, a drone or the loft, and explain what needs doing and why.

The three roofing companies above cover Leeds and the surrounding areas, and two of them say they are family run. Between them they offer a wide range of roofing services: roof repairs, flat roofs, pitched roofing, new roofs, guttering and roof surveys, for homeowners and businesses. Request a quote from two or three and compare them line by line. Some firms that come up in a search are based in Bradford, Harrogate or elsewhere in West Yorkshire. They can still be a good choice, but ask how quickly they can get to you if a gutter or roof starts leaking.

Common roofing work on Leeds homes

• Roof repair: slipped or broken roof tiles and slates, cracked mortar on ridge tiles, and worn leadwork around chimneys are the usual causes of a leaking roof.
• Flat roof: garages, dormers and back extensions often have flat roofs. Ask which flat roofing systems the roofer fits, such as felt, EPDM rubber or GRP fibreglass, and how long each is guaranteed.
• Gutter, fascia and soffit work: a blocked or sagging gutter causes damp walls. Many roofers replace old timber fascias and soffits with uPVC at the same time, and quote the installation as one job.
• Roof windows: fitting or resealing Velux style windows in a loft.
• New roof: a full roof replacement, or re roof, when the existing roof has too many failing tiles or slates to keep repairing.

Slate or tile: pick a roofer who knows your roof

Much of inner Leeds, from Headingley to Harehills, is pre 1919 terraces, many with slate roofs, while many post war semis have concrete tiles. Slate work, leadwork and chimney repairs need different skills from tiling, so ask for photos of similar work the roofer has completed nearby. As a homeowner, it is fair to ask for expert advice on whether a repair will last or a new roof is better value.

Rules worth knowing before roofing work

• Replacing more than a quarter of a roof usually needs Building Regulations approval, including insulation to current standards. A roofer registered with a competent person scheme can sign this off, or you can apply to Leeds City Council building control.
• If scaffolding goes on the pavement, the scaffolder needs a licence from Leeds City Council. Check the quote includes it.
• Listed buildings and homes in conservation areas may need consent to change roof materials.
• Old garage roofs, soffits and roof panels can contain asbestos. If you are not sure, have it tested first, and see our asbestos removal list.

What to ask before you book a roofer

• Is the quotation itemised, including scaffolding, skips and waste?
• Is the workmanship guaranteed in writing, and is the guarantee backed if the roofing company stops trading?
• Are you a member of a trade body such as the NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) or TrustMark?
• Do you carry public liability insurance?
• Can I see customer reviews or speak to previous customers?