Roof checks
Roof checks for a French property viewing
A roof problem can turn a charming French house into a very different project. You do not need to diagnose the roof at the viewing, but you do need to know whether it deserves a quote or survey before you offer.
Look from a distance first
- Stand back and check whether the roofline looks straight, sagging or uneven.
- Look for missing tiles or slates, patched areas, moss-heavy sections and visible daylight at edges.
- Check chimneys, flashing, ridge tiles, valleys and dormers because leaks often start around details.
- Photograph each roof face from the garden, road or upstairs windows if you can do it safely.
Check gutters and water movement
- Look for broken gutters, blocked downpipes and water marks on walls below roof edges.
- Check whether downpipes discharge away from the house or dump water by the foundations.
- Look for rotten fascia boards, staining below valleys and damp patches near chimney breasts.
Ask to see the loft or highest accessible space
- Look for daylight, water staining, recent buckets, damp insulation, rotten timbers or fresh patch repairs.
- Ask whether the roof has underfelt or a breathable membrane, especially on older roofs.
- Check whether insulation is present, dry and evenly installed.
- Notice whether access is safe and practical for future inspection or maintenance.
Questions to ask the agent or owner
- When was the roof last repaired or replaced?
- Are there invoices, guarantees or photos from the work?
- Have there been leaks, storm damage or insurance claims?
- Are any chimneys unused, unstable or leaking?
- Would a roofer be able to access all sides easily?
Related checks
- Damp checks when viewing a house in France
- Buying a renovation property in France checklist
- What to check before buying property in France
Do not climb or inspect unsafe areas yourself. Use this list to decide whether a roofer or surveyor should inspect before you rely on the price.