choosing a roofer - avoiding cowboys

[katierocket]

looks like we have a leaky roof Anyone got any tips for choosing a roofer? I'm so paranoid about ending up with some cowboy as obviously we've got now way of knowing if he's telling us the truth (can't get up there myself!)

No idea, but we had some bits at the edge of the roof needed replacing (cement bit under tiles?) & dh rang 1st person in paper. Quoted £380 saying 2 days work for 2 men but immediatelly reduced to £320 for cash.
They then spent about 3 half-days mainly lying on the roof, apart from when knocked on door & apologised fpr sounding hoarse but had a sore throat from lack of tea. I took the hint.
Hated the whole thing as they seemed so full of attitude, we were completely at their mercy. Seemed to do the job ok.
Thought it exorbitant for amount of work they did, but dh says his parents paid £1000 for very little a while back.
Not much help really, just saying, it seems to cost a lot & unless you can do it yourself, guess you just have to put up with it.

Are you in London? Can recommend the firm that did ours if so. Dont know how to tell really tho. This lot were pleasant to have around, were reasonably considerate about mess, finished on time and the roof has been fine so far (about 6 years)

If rogue traders is anything to go by dont have anyone from Orpington-or anyone who advertises in their local paper

If you are in London, I have an excellent roofer who is trustworthy. Send me an email if you want his number.

Know a fab roofer in the midlands, email me for his number.

thanks - managed to find the federation of master builders website where hopefully they are more reputable. I live in north west so unfortunately london builders no good - but thanks anyway.

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KR, we live in north Cheshire & had our roof replaced 10 years ago. May be a while back, but the firm were v. good & have sine done friends of ours. Think the name was Northern Roofing, but can find for definite if you like.

katierocket - what kind of house have you got? I'm in teh NW and mine is a terrace and I had the roof re-done a few years ago (used old slates where possible, new felt, batons etc) and it cost me £1200 or £1300. No leaks since. (Leaks through the wall but that's another problem!!! )

I have just come across this conversation regarding roofers as I am looking for a good roofer. I had my roof repaired but it wasn't done properly. It is still leaking. Could you please send me the contact details of the roofer you recommended. Many thanks

Sorry forgot to mention that I live in North London. Soyabean and Sofia Ames please send me the contact details of the roofers you recommended. Many thanks