Start with the roof you have
Tell us the existing roof material if you know it, whether you are seeking repairs or exploring a replacement, and the suburb of the property. If you cannot identify the material confidently, describe it in ordinary language. There is no need to access the roof or make a technical assessment yourself.
A contractor's suitability depends on more than a material name. The condition of the existing roof, the property, access and the type of proposed work all matter to the discussion. DRS reviews your basic enquiry information; the independent contractor inspects and assesses the technical requirements.
Metal roofing enquiries
You might be enquiring about visible damage to roof sheets, deterioration, a leak or the possibility of replacing an existing metal roof. Mention the parts you can safely see and any earlier repair history. If you are considering metal for a replacement, explain the outcome you are hoping for rather than trying to specify the whole roof.
Ask the contractor to explain their proposed materials, finishes and scope in the quotation. Questions about the condition of existing components, property suitability and installation requirements should be answered by the business that will assess and carry out the work.
Tile roofing enquiries
For a tiled roof, an enquiry may start with a visibly broken or displaced tile, a leak or concern about the roof's overall condition. Describe what you have noticed without assuming that the visible tile is the only issue. A contractor can inspect and advise on the work appropriate to the property.
If replacement is being considered, ask what would be retained and what would be removed. Discuss the available material options and request a clear explanation of inclusions and exclusions. DRS does not diagnose the condition of tiles or recommend a repair specification.
Slate roofing enquiries
For a slate roof, tell us about the property and whether the enquiry concerns a localised issue, broader deterioration or replacement. If matching the existing appearance is important to you, include that in the enquiry. Existing photographs or reports can help explain your priorities without requiring you to inspect the roof yourself.
Contractor suitability and availability need to be checked for the particular enquiry. Ask the independent contractor about their experience with the relevant material and proposed work, how they would assess the existing roof and what their quotation includes. We do not promise that a suitable slate contractor is available for every location or job.
Changing materials or comparing options
A different roof material may be part of a renovation or replacement discussion. Tell the contractor about your priorities, such as appearance, maintenance questions or the relationship to other planned work. Ask what additional assessment or approvals may be relevant before treating a material change as a like-for-like replacement.
Compare written scopes as well as prices. Two quotations may include different components or assumptions, making a headline price difficult to compare. The contractor is responsible for technical advice and the roofing contract. DRS provides the introduction, rather than selecting the roof system on your behalf.
Arrange the conversation
Our replacement and repair enquiry pages explain what information is useful for each type of work. For an issue following a storm, see storm damage enquiries.
Submit an enquiry with your suburb, roof material if known and a short description. DRS will review the details and help identify a suitable independent contractor where available. Inspection, quotation, contracting and the roofing work remain the responsibility of that independent business.