If you've ever tried to get a clear look at your own roof, you'll know how difficult it is. From ground level, you might spot a missing tile or a mossy patch — but anything on the far side of a ridge, a valley, or a chimney stack stays completely hidden. That's exactly the problem that drone roof surveys were designed to solve.
What Is a Drone Roof Survey?
A drone roof survey uses a professional camera-equipped drone to carry out a detailed aerial inspection of your entire roof. The drone flies at low altitude, capturing full HD photos and video footage of every surface — including areas that would be inaccessible without scaffolding or a long ladder.
The result is a comprehensive visual report that lets you — and your roofer — see exactly what's happening across your whole roof before any work begins.
"Traditional roof inspections can miss damage that's only visible from above. A drone survey gives homeowners a complete aerial picture of their roof — including the bits that would normally cost hundreds to inspect via scaffolding."
How Is It Different from a Traditional Roof Inspection?
A traditional inspection typically involves a roofer using a ladder to access your roof, or sometimes binoculars from ground level. Both methods have significant blind spots — pitches you can't see from below, sections hidden behind chimneys, and ridge details that require a full scaffold to reach safely.
A drone survey eliminates those blind spots entirely. In a single visit, our pilot can capture footage of every slope, ridge, valley, chimney stack, and gutter run on your property — usually in under an hour.
What Does a Drone Survey Cover?
Missing, cracked, or slipped tiles and slates — visible from above in high definition
Moss and algae growth — including patches not visible from the ground
Chimney stack condition — mortar, pots, flashings, and pointing
Ridge and hip tiles — checking bedding and repointing requirements
Lead flashings and valleys — looking for lifting, cracking, or separation
Gutters and fascias — blockages, sagging runs, and damage from above
Flat roof surfaces — pooling, blistering, and membrane condition
Who Needs a Drone Roof Survey?
Drone surveys are useful in a wide range of situations. You might consider booking one if:
- You're buying a property — a pre-purchase drone survey gives you an independent view of the roof before you commit, potentially saving thousands in unexpected repair costs after completion.
- You've experienced storm damage — after a period of high winds or heavy rain, a drone survey quickly identifies any tiles that have shifted or sections that have been damaged.
- You have an older home — if your property is 20+ years old and hasn't had a recent roof inspection, a drone survey gives you a clear picture of its current condition without the cost of scaffolding.
- You want a quote for work — a drone survey lets us see exactly what's needed before we price any job. It means our quotes are accurate and based on the full picture.
- Your home is difficult to access — properties with steep pitches, complex roof shapes, or areas bordered by gardens and outbuildings can be tricky to inspect from ladders. A drone cuts through all of that.
Is It Safe?
Completely. Drone surveys require no access to your roof and no scaffolding. There's no disruption to your property, no risk to occupants, and no damage to your tiles or gutters. The drone flies externally at a safe altitude, guided by our licensed pilot.
EA Roofing Services comply fully with CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) guidelines for drone operations. Our pilot holds the relevant certifications for commercial drone work in residential areas across Cumbria and South West Scotland.
How Much Does a Drone Roof Survey Cost?
Drone surveys are significantly cheaper than commissioning a full scaffold for an inspection. Contact us for a transparent, no-obligation quote for your property — pricing varies depending on roof size and location within our service area.
For homeowners in Carlisle and within 10 miles, our standard call-out is £90, which covers the visit, the drone survey, and a written assessment of findings. No hidden fees — what we quote is what you pay.
What Happens After the Survey?
After completing the drone survey, we'll talk you through the footage and photographs and give you a clear picture of your roof's condition. If any issues are identified, we'll provide a full written quote for any recommended repairs. If your roof is in good shape, we'll tell you that too — we're not in the business of creating work that isn't needed.