Choosing a roofing specialist

[alexp.1]

I'm buying a timber-framed farmhouse that is a hotch-potch of extensions, with the work dating from 1550 up to the 1980's. It's not a listed building.

I've just had a building survey done and have been recommended to have the roof, chimneys, flashing and gutters professionally inspected before exchanging contracts. The surveyor only assessed the roof condition using binoculars and thinks a hands-on inspection would be prudent since the roof looked a little tired.

Would appreciate any advice on what to look for when choosing a roofing company to perform an inspection - Google brings an overwhelming choice. Any essential qualifications or trade bodies etc that the company/persons should ideally be affiliated to?

Many thanks.

 

[--tom]

Trade Assn's and logos mean nothing except money for the folks that run them and flim - flam for the public.
Choose someone who seems reasonable to talk to - determine in advance if the inspection is free or what it costs - WILL IT BE WRITTEN OR VERBAL AND WILL THEY USE ROOF LADDERS( a must).
Are they insured for roofing?