It’s quite common for homeowners to seek multiple estimates to ensure they’re making the best decision when looking for a roof cleaning company. It’s a big investment in the longevity of your home. As one of the many leaders in the industry, we’re keen to assist you in this process. We are not the cheapest and take pride in that fact, therefore, here are 12 critical tips to keep in mind while you’re gathering additional quotes for your roof cleaning project:
1. Professional use Biocides that are on the Biocide register and HSE compliant – it’s essential to ensure that the biocide being used on your proeprty is registered on the Control of Pesticides Regulations (COPR) register. This registration indicates compliance with UK regulations, guaranteeing that the biocide has been assessed for safety and efficacy. Choosing a company that uses COPR-registered biocides helps protect your health, the environment, and ensures that the products applied are legally approved for use. Always ask the roof cleaning service provider for evidence of the biocide’s registration or check the HSE website for a list of authorised products and their approved uses. For detailed information on the regulation and use of biocides in the UK, including the legal requirements and the COPR register, visiting the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website’s biocide section is recommended. Here’s the link to the register to check to see if the roof cleaning company uses registered Biocides: https://www.hse.gov.uk/biocides/information.htm#law
2. Training for use of biocides – In the UK, health and safety regulations stipulate that professionals who intend to use biocides—a category of chemicals designed to control harmful organisms by chemical or biological means—must undergo specific training before their use. This requirement is in place to ensure that these potent substances are handled safely and effectively, minimizing risks to human health and the environment. This regulatory framework is overseen by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which sets guidelines for the safe use of chemicals, including biocides, in professional settings. For customers seeking roof cleaning services that employ biocides, this requirement offers significant benefits. It assures them that the service provider has the necessary expertise to use these chemicals safely and effectively, reducing the risk of improper application that could lead to damage to their property or harm to the surrounding environment. Furthermore, it provides a level of professional assurance and quality control, indicating that the service provider adheres to national safety standards, thus making a well-trained provider a more trustworthy and reliable choice. More information can be found here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/biocides/using.htm
3. Don’t let chemicals go down your drains – you should prioritise companies that comply with environmental regulations regarding chemical disposal, as mandated by the Environment Agency. Adhering to these rules, including obtaining necessary consents for trade effluent discharges is crucial for protecting water sources and ecosystems. Additionally, the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2018 emphasize the importance of preventing water contamination to ensure the safety of drinking water. By choosing a company that follows these guidelines, you contribute to environmental preservation and safeguard the water quality. Before hiring, inquiring about the company’s waste disposal and environmental protection measures is advised. More information on UK water regulations and pollution prevention can be found on the GOV.UK website for further information https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pollution-prevention-for-businesses
4. Carry PASMA an IPAF certifications – last year there were 40 deaths from workers falling from height and 80 major injuries (broken limbs, fractured skulls etc.). Health and safety law in the UK prohibits working from a ladder for more than 30 minutes at a time. It’s beneficial to know that the requirements for operators to have a PASMA certificate for mobile scaffold towers and an IPAF license for cherry pickers ensure high safety standards. These certifications guarantee that the individuals operating this equipment have undergone rigorous training on the safe assembly, use, and disassembly of scaffold towers (PASMA) and the safe operation of cherry pickers and aerial work platforms (IPAF). This not only minimizes the risk of accidents during the cleaning process, protecting both the workers and the property, but also ensures that the job is done efficiently and effectively. The adherence to these regulations is a testament to a provider’s commitment to safety and professionalism, offering peace of mind to customers that their property is in capable hands. Here’s further information on PASMA: https://pasma.co.uk/faqs/competence-faq/ and IPAF: https://www.ipaf.org/en-gb/faqs
5. Don’t walk on your roof – when seeking a service provider to clean your roof, it’s crucial to choose a method that avoids walking directly on the tiles or roofing material. Walking on the roof can lead to significant damage, including cracked or broken tiles and potential structural issues, which could result in further property damage and even pose a risk of injury to both the homeowner and the cleaner. Moreover, employing techniques that involve walking on the roof might invalidate any existing property insurance if the cleaning service is not specifically insured for such methods. Ensuring that the chosen roof cleaning technique is safe, effective, and does not involve direct contact with the roofing surface is essential for maintaining the integrity of the roof, avoiding unnecessary risks, and keeping insurance policies valid.
6. Carry out a roof inspection/ survey – when selecting a roof cleaning service, it’s vital that the company conducts a thorough inspection or survey of the roof before proceeding. This initial assessment should determine the most appropriate cleaning method tailored to the roof’s specific type and current condition, ensuring the treatment is both safe and effective. During the inspection, professionals should examine the roof’s structural elements, such as the ridge structure, and identify any potential issues, including cracked tiles or the specific tile material. Additionally, the surrounding environment should be taken into account, including nearby trees, the presence of pond life, animals, or children, to mitigate any risk and protect the property’s ecosystem. This comprehensive approach not only guarantees a customized cleaning plan but also helps in preserving the roof’s longevity and the safety of the property and its inhabitants.
7. They have a valid waste carriers licence – if taking waste including moss away from your property they need to hold a valid waste carriers licence. This ensures you don’t end up liable and face fines, for more information on fines you can check here: https://www.nelincs.gov.uk/keeping-our-area-clean-and-safe/fly-tipping/
8. Hold Public liability insurance – Public liability insurance protects against any damage that might occur to your property as a result of the company’s cleaning activities. Roof cleaning depending on the company’s methods could involve high-pressure washing, working at height, working with asbestos, working with hazardous waste, the use of professional-grade chemicals, and workers moving across your roof, all of which pose risks to your property. If any accidental damage occurs, this insurance ensures that the company can compensate you for the losses without financial disputes. More information can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/employers-liability-insurance
9. Employers liability insurance – Roof cleaning is a high-risk job that involves working at heights and potentially with hazardous materials. Public liability insurance also covers any injuries to non-employees, including property owners or bystanders, that might occur due to the company’s operations. If someone is accidentally injured as a result of the cleaning work, this insurance can cover medical expenses and legal fees, protecting you from being held liable. More information can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/employers-liability-insurance
10. Before and after pictures and testimonials – When selecting a roof cleaning company, customers should prioritise finding one that showcases before and after pictures along with customer testimonials. These elements serve as evidence of the company’s quality of work, demonstrating their ability to transform roofs effectively and showcasing their experience through visual proof and positive client feedback. Such transparency builds trust, aids in setting realistic expectations, and distinguishes the company from competitors. Moreover, the emotional appeal of seeing tangible results, coupled with firsthand accounts of satisfaction, greatly assists customers in making an informed and confident decision. This approach ensures that potential clients can gauge the professionalism, reliability, and outcome quality of the service provider, leading to a more satisfactory engagement.
11. Don’t use high-pressure methods – For a roof cleaning service that ensures the longevity and safety of your home, steer clear of high-pressure washing methods. These can harm the integrity of your tiles by causing breakage or leaving unsightly marks. Traditional pressure washing often involves risky practices, such as using unsecured ladders or walking directly on the roof, which not only compromises your safety but may also breach health and safety regulations, increasing the potential for accidents and liability. Instead, opt for a service that employs steam and softwashing techniques or scraping from a secure platform. This method is gentler on your roof and safer for the technicians By choosing steam, softwashing or scraping, you ensure your roof is meticulously cleaned without jeopardizing the structure or the surrounding area, providing you with peace of mind and preserving the aesthetic and structural integrity of your home.
12. Clean up, clear gutters, downpipes and all other mess – When considering a roof cleaning service, it’s essential to select a company that not only excels in cleaning but also prioritizes leaving your property pristine. A reputable service should include thorough cleanup, ensuring gutters, downpipes, and surrounding areas are free of debris and moss that typically accumulate during the cleaning process. Opt for a company that stands behind its work with a satisfaction guarantee or a “no mess left behind” promise, complete with photo evidence of the cleaned gutters for your peace of mind. It’s common for less diligent services to overlook residual moss, potentially clogging gutters and littering your lawn, and patio, and even affecting neighboring properties. A commitment to leaving your property in equal or better condition than it was found not only reflects professionalism but also saves you from the hassle of post-cleaning cleanup. Ensure peace of mind with a service that pledges cleanliness and satisfaction, safeguarding your home and its surroundings.
We pride ourselves on delivering unparalleled quality and durability, ensuring that your investment in your home’s care is both valuable and lasting. Thank you for reading these tips we hope they are of help. We’re here to provide you with the highest standard of service, should you choose to work with us for your roof cleaning needs.