When it comes to maintaining your property, your roof should never be an afterthought. As roofing specialists based in Glasgow, at Balmore Group, we’ve seen firsthand how a professional and independent roof survey can save homeowners and commercial property managers a great deal of money and stress. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from traditional inspections to drone surveys, roof maintenance tips, and more.
What is a Roof Survey?
A roof survey is a detailed inspection of your roof’s condition. It assesses everything from structural soundness to wear and tear, drainage, flashing, guttering, and overall lifespan. Whether you own a historic townhouse in the West End of Glasgow or a warehouse in the East End of Glasgow, a roof survey helps identify issues before they become costly repairs.
Roof Inspection vs. Roof Survey
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a key difference.
- A roof inspection is typically a quick check, useful after storms or when selling a house.
- A roof survey is more in-depth, including full condition reports, photos, measurements, and sometimes thermal imaging or drone inspection services.
Think of it like the difference between a GP check-up and a full medical scan.
Common Roof Defects We Encounter
At Balmore Group, we’ve encountered it all. Some of the most common issues we find during surveys include:
- Cracked or missing slates and tiles
- Blocked or sagging gutters
- Damp penetration
- Poor ventilation and insulation
- Moss growth or debris build up
- Structural damage (especially in older buildings)
Spotting these early can make all the difference, especially in Scotland’s famously unpredictable weather.
Types of Roof Survey
There are several kinds of surveys depending on your needs:
- Visual Surveys: Quick inspections by our experienced team.
- Full Condition Reports: Comprehensive breakdowns for buyers or insurers.
- Drone Surveys: Ideal for hard-to-reach or dangerous rooftops.
- Thermal Imaging Surveys: Great for detecting heat loss and water ingress.
Drone Roof Surveys: A Game-Changer
We’re proud to be one of the leading drone inspection companies in Scotland. Using high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging, drone roof inspection allows us to carry out aerial inspection services safely and efficiently. For difficult-to-access roofs or confined space drone inspections, our drones eliminate the need for scaffolding or cherry pickers.
Whether it’s a listed building in need of delicate handling or a large commercial warehouse, our industrial drone inspection services provide fast, accurate results with minimal disruption.
We’ve even carried out drone surveys in Scotland on heritage sites, helping architects and conservationists plan their next steps.
Benefits of a Roof Survey
Here’s why regular roof surveys are a smart investment:
- Preventative maintenance: Catch issues early before they escalate.
- Insurance compliance: Meet the requirements of your building insurer.
- Peace of mind: Especially during storm season.
- Energy efficiency: Identify heat loss with thermal imaging.
- Cost-effective: Avoid emergency callouts and extensive repairs.
When Should I Get a Roof Survey?
We typically recommend a survey:
- Every 3–5 years for residential homes
- Annually for commercial and industrial buildings
- Before buying or selling a property
- After extreme weather (especially here in Glasgow!)
If you’re noticing damp patches, rising heating bills, or loose tiles, it’s time to act.
Cost of Roof Surveys & Drone Inspection Pricing
Roofing services prices vary depending on the size and type of roof, accessibility, and level of detail required.
- A basic visual inspection may cost less than £200.
- A full roof drone inspection with thermal imaging could range between £350–£1,000+ depending on scale.
- For commercial clients, drone inspection pricing for large sites can be quoted after an initial consultation.
We’re always upfront about our rates and will tailor a quote that suits your needs and budget.
Choosing a Roof Inspector
Not all roof surveyors are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
- Experience with your type of property
- Up-to-date certification (especially for drone inspection companies)
- Solid reputation (check local reviews)
- Transparent pricing
- Insurance and safety credentials
At Balmore Group, we bring decades of expertise as a trusted roofing contractor in Glasgow, with a skilled team ready to advise on everything from inspections to repairs.
Roof Maintenance Tips
To keep your roof in top shape between surveys:
- Clear your gutters twice a year
- Check your loft for signs of damp
- Remove moss and debris buildup
- Get loose tiles or flashing repaired ASAP
- Book an annual check-up, especially before winter
Remember, even small repairs can extend your roof’s lifespan by years.
Why Choose Balmore Group?
We’re not just another drone inspection company or roofing services Glasgow provider. We’re a multi-disciplinary firm combining traditional roofing skills with cutting-edge drone inspection services and reporting. Whether you’re looking for independent roof survey support or reliable roofers in Glasgow, we’re here to help.
From roofer Glasgow West End jobs to nationwide confined space drone inspection work, our team delivers quality, safety, and expertise every time.
Final Thoughts
A roof survey isn’t just another box to tick; it’s a vital part of protecting your property. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or commercial client, having the right team on your side makes all the difference.
If you’re interested in booking a drone survey, an independent roof survey or learning more about our roofing services in Glasgow, feel free to get in touch with us at Balmore Group. We’re here to make sure your roof stays safe, secure, and storm-ready.
