Drone Roof Inspections: What the Footage Shows

Some roofs are not safe or sensible to walk on: steep pitches, high two-storey homes, brittle old tiles or roofs that are wet and slippery. A drone gives a clear view without anyone stepping on the surface.

What a drone sees well

Overhead and close-up images show cracked or slipped tiles, missing ridge pointing, lifted sheets, rust at laps and fixings, damaged flashings, blocked valleys and gutters full of debris. Because the camera can hover close, small faults that are hard to see from a ladder become obvious.

What it cannot see

A drone cannot look under sheets or tiles, test how solid a batten is or feel for soft spots. If the images point to a problem, a roofer may still need to access the area or check inside the ceiling space. Think of drone footage as a very good first look, not a full diagnosis.

When it makes sense

Roof Repair Wellington says its roofers get up on the roof wherever it is safe, and use a drone when a roof is too steep, high or brittle to walk. For a buyer, an insurance question or a roof you suspect is near the end of its life, a drone-assisted roof check can answer a lot quickly.

What to ask for

Ask for the photos and a short written summary of what was found, with each issue linked to an image. That makes it easier to compare quotes and decide what to do now and what can wait.

If the footage shows widespread wear, read our restore or replace guide. Coastal homes should also read our notes on coastal metal roofs.