The Key Stages of Roof Refurbishment for Housing Associations and Councils

A successful roof refurbishment for housing associations and councils follows eight main stages:

1. Roof survey and condition assessment

2. Specification and budgeting

3. Section 20 consultation

4. Health & safety setup

5. Resident communication

6. Refurbishment works

7. Final inspection and handover

8. Ongoing maintenance

Each step ensures safety, compliance, and minimal disruption for residents - protecting both the building and the housing provider’s investment.

Step 1: Initial Roof Survey and Condition Assessment

Every refurbishment project begins with a detailed roof survey. For housing associations, this establishes the scope of work, identifies safety requirements, and provides the data needed to budget accurately.

A professional survey should examine waterproofing, insulation and drainage, as well as any signs of leaks, trapped moisture or structural issues. At Premier Roofing & Construction, we combine physical inspections with drone technology to reach difficult areas safely. Core samples and moisture readings confirm the roof build-up and help determine whether a full replacement or overlay system is most appropriate. The resulting report becomes the foundation for a compliant specification.

Step 2: Developing the Specification and Budget

Once survey data is complete, the next step is to agree on a clear specification. This document defines materials, build-up, insulation upgrades, and fire-safety measures in line with manufacturer and Building Regulation requirements. It also sets out the project timeline and cost plan.

Using approved systems such as Langley or Bauder provides long-term value and manufacturer warranties of up to 30 years. A detailed specification at this stage avoids uncertainty during tendering and ensures all parties work to the same technical standard.

Step 3: Section 20 and Resident Consultation

If leaseholders will be contributing to costs, the Section 20 consultation under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 must take place. Residents are notified of the proposed works, given time to comment, and their feedback is considered before a contractor is appointed.

Clear communication during this period is vital. We support clients by preparing plain-language summaries of the technical report and assisting with resident enquiries so that everyone understands why the work is required and how disruption will be managed.

Step 4: Pre-Start Planning and Health & Safety Setup

Before work begins, a pre-start meeting brings together the client, manufacturer, and contractor to confirm logistics and compliance. We prepare all risk assessments, COSHH documentation and scaffold designs, and agree on storage, waste removal and access arrangements.

All activity is carried out under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM). Toolbox talks, inductions and daily briefings maintain a strong safety culture, ensuring residents, staff and the public remain protected throughout the programme.

Step 5: Resident Liaison and Communication

Refurbishing an occupied building requires sensitivity and clear communication.

Our Resident Liaison Officer (RLO) acts as the bridge between residents, site teams and the client - issuing advance notices, coordinating access for inspections, and keeping tenants informed of upcoming or potentially disruptive works.

Step 6: Roof Refurbishment Works

With planning complete, physical works can commence. Refurbishment typically involves removing the existing covering, upgrading insulation to meet current standards, and installing a new vapour-control layer and high-performance waterproofing membrane. Drainage outlets, edge details and safety systems are upgraded as needed.

Work is carefully phased to maintain weather protection at all times. Our site managers and manufacturer representatives carry out regular inspections to verify compliance with the specification. Progress meetings with the client keep everyone informed on the programme, budget and any design refinements.

Step 7: Quality Checks and Handover

Once installation is finished, the project moves into quality assurance and handover. Final inspections are completed jointly with the client and manufacturer to confirm that all details are watertight and correctly installed. Outlets are tested, photographs taken, and warranty forms submitted.

Clients receive a comprehensive handover pack containing as-built drawings, completion certificates, product data sheets and maintenance recommendations. The manufacturer then issues the guarantee, providing long-term peace of mind.

Step 8: Ongoing Maintenance and Warranty Support

Even a new roof requires care. Planned maintenance keeps warranties valid and ensures small issues are addressed early. Annual or bi-annual inspections, particularly after severe weather, help maintain performance. Clearing debris from outlets and gutters, checking flashings and recording findings in a log all contribute to extending the roof’s lifespan.

Premier Roofing & Construction offers follow-up inspections and maintenance plans tailored to housing-association budgets. Regular care can easily add ten years or more to the service life of a refurbished roof.

Conclusion

Roof refurbishments in the housing and public sectors demand more than technical expertise - they rely on planning, communication and compliance at every stage. By following this structured process, housing associations and councils can deliver safe, efficient and value-for-money projects that protect their buildings for decades.

PRC Limited partners with local authorities, housing associations and schools across London, Essex and Kent, providing approved, manufacturer-guaranteed roofing systems and full resident liaison support from survey to completion.