7 Mistakes You're Making When Choosing a Roofer in Belfast (and How to Avoid Them)

Let's be honest. Finding a reliable roofer in Belfast, Bangor, or Newtownards can feel like navigating a minefield. For every skilled professional, there's a "cowboy" contractor ready to take your money and leave you with a bodged job and a leaking roof.

We've seen it countless times over our 25+ years serving homeowners across Northern Ireland. Customers come to us after being burned by roofers who disappeared mid-job, used cheap materials, or caused more damage than they fixed.

The good news? These disasters are avoidable. You just need to know what red flags to watch for.

Here are the seven most common mistakes homeowners make when choosing a roofer: and exactly how to sidestep them.


Mistake #1: Not Checking Insurance and Credentials

This is the big one. And it's shocking how many homeowners skip it entirely.

Hiring an uninsured roofer isn't just risky: it's potentially catastrophic. If a worker falls from your roof or damages your property, you could be held liable. Your home insurance might refuse to cover it. You could face legal action with no recourse.

How to Avoid It:

  • Request a copy of their public liability insurance certificate. Don't just take their word for it: ask to see the actual document.
  • Verify it's current. Insurance expires. Make sure the certificate covers the dates of your project.
  • Check health and safety compliance. Professional roofers follow strict safety standards. If someone's cutting corners on safety, they're cutting corners everywhere.

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we're fully insured and happy to provide documentation before any work begins. It's standard practice for any reputable contractor.


Mistake #2: Accepting the First Quote You Get

We understand the temptation. You've got water coming through the ceiling, you're stressed, and someone offers to fix it tomorrow. Done deal, right?

Wrong.

Accepting the first quote without comparison means you have no idea if you're being overcharged, underserved, or both. It also means you can't assess whether the scope of work is appropriate.

How to Avoid It:

  • Get at least three quotes from different roofing companies.
  • Compare like-for-like. Make sure each quote covers the same work, materials, and timeline.
  • Look beyond the price. The cheapest quote isn't always the best value. Check what's included: materials, labour, guarantees, cleanup.

A detailed, transparent quote tells you a lot about how a company operates. Vague estimates? That's a warning sign.


Mistake #3: Ignoring Local Reputation and Reviews

Flashy websites and slick adverts mean nothing if the contractor leaves a trail of unhappy customers behind them.

Roofer conducting a detailed roof inspection in heavy rain

Northern Ireland is a tight-knit community. Word travels fast. A roofer's reputation in Belfast, Bangor, or Newtownards is built over years of consistent, quality work: or destroyed by cutting corners.

How to Avoid It:

  • Check Google reviews and Facebook recommendations. Look for patterns in feedback, not just star ratings.
  • Ask for references. A confident contractor will happily connect you with previous clients.
  • Ask your neighbours. Chances are someone on your street has had roofing work done. Personal recommendations are gold.

We've been serving the Belfast area for over 25 years. Our reputation is built on thousands of satisfied customers who trust us to do the job right, first time.


Mistake #4: Skipping the Written Contract

Verbal agreements aren't worth the paper they're not written on.

Without a proper contract, you have no protection if things go sideways. Timelines slip. Materials change. Costs balloon. And you're left arguing about what was actually agreed.

How to Avoid It:

  • Insist on a written contract before any work starts.
  • Ensure it includes: scope of work, materials to be used, start and completion dates, total cost, payment schedule, and warranty details.
  • Read it carefully. Don't sign anything you don't fully understand.

Professional contractors document everything. If someone refuses to put their quote in writing, walk away. Immediately.


Mistake #5: Choosing Based on Price Alone

Here's a hard truth: if the quote sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Rock-bottom prices usually mean one of three things: cheap materials, inexperienced workers, or hidden costs that appear later. Sometimes all three.

We've repaired countless roofs in Belfast that were "fixed" by budget contractors just months earlier. The homeowners thought they were saving money. Instead, they paid twice.

How to Avoid It:

  • Balance cost with quality. The goal is value, not the lowest number.
  • Ask what's included. Cheap quotes often exclude essentials like scaffolding, waste removal, or proper flashings.
  • Be suspicious of large upfront payments. Reputable roofers don't demand 50% cash before lifting a finger.

Quality workmanship costs money. But it saves you far more in the long run.


Mistake #6: Not Asking Enough Questions

Many homeowners feel awkward grilling a contractor. Don't be. Asking questions is your right: and your protection.

A professional roofer welcomes questions. They want you to understand the process, the materials, and the timeline. Evasive answers or impatience? Red flags.

Questions You Should Be Asking:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • Do you use your own trained employees or subcontractors?
  • What materials do you recommend and why?
  • What's the expected timeline for this project?
  • What warranties do you offer on labour and materials?
  • Can you provide a detailed breakdown of costs?

Homeowner in Belfast discussing roofing project details with a local contractor at their front door

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we've got 25+ years of experience answering these questions. We use our own skilled team: not random subcontractors: so you know exactly who's working on your home.


Mistake #7: Giving In to Pressure Tactics

"This price is only valid today." "We happen to be in your area and noticed your roof needs work." "Sign now and we'll throw in a discount."

Sound familiar? These are classic pressure tactics used by less-than-scrupulous contractors. They want you to commit before you've had time to think, research, or compare.

How to Avoid It:

  • Never feel rushed. A legitimate roofing company won't pressure you into instant decisions.
  • Take time to verify credentials. Check their business address, online presence, and reviews.
  • Be wary of door-knockers. Unsolicited offers for roof repairs are a major red flag in Belfast and across NI.

Trustworthy roofers give you space to make informed decisions. They don't need high-pressure sales because their work speaks for itself.


What to Look for in a Professional Roofer

Now you know what to avoid. But what should you actively look for?

Quality Why It Matters
Proper insurance Protects you from liability
Local reputation Accountability within the community
Written contracts Clear expectations, no surprises
Transparent pricing You know exactly what you're paying for
Warranties on work Confidence they'll stand behind their craftsmanship
Years of experience Proven track record handling NI's weather and roofing challenges

Why Homeowners Across Belfast Trust Advanced Construction & Roofing

For more than 25 years, we've been the roofers Belfast, Bangor, Newtownards, and surrounding areas turn to when quality matters.

Here's what sets us apart:

  • Fully insured and compliant with all health and safety standards
  • Transparent, fixed-price quotes with no hidden extras
  • Our own trained team: not subcontractors you've never met
  • Honest assessments of what your roof actually needs
  • Warranties on both materials and workmanship

We're not interested in quick cash grabs. We're interested in building relationships with homeowners who'll recommend us to their neighbours for decades to come.

"Quality workmanship you can look up to."


Need an Honest Opinion on Your Roof?

Not sure what condition your roof is in? Before committing to any repairs, consider booking a professional Roof Condition Report. For just £295 + VAT, you'll get a detailed inspection, photo evidence, and a clear RAG-rated assessment: delivered within 48 hours.

It's the smartest way to know exactly what you're dealing with before you spend a penny on repairs.

📞 Call us today to speak with our team

🌐 Visit: adv-group.co.uk

Advanced Construction & Roofing – Serving Belfast, Bangor, Newtownards, and all of Northern Ireland with honest, professional roofing services for over 25 years.

7 Mistakes You're Making After Roof Storm Damage (And How to Fix Them)

Storm damage to your roof is stressful. There's no way around it.

You're standing in your home in Belfast, watching water drip through the ceiling, wondering how bad the damage really is. Your mind races through questions: Will insurance cover this? How much is this going to cost? Who can I trust to fix it properly?

Here's the truth: the decisions you make in the hours and days after storm damage can cost you thousands of pounds or save you from a nightmare down the road.

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we've spent over 25 years helping homeowners across Belfast and Northern Ireland recover from storm damage. We've seen every mistake in the book. And we've helped countless families avoid the pitfalls that turn a manageable repair into a financial disaster.

Let's walk through the seven most common mistakes homeowners make after roof storm damage: and exactly how to fix them.


Mistake #1: Failing to Document the Damage Properly

This is the mistake that comes back to bite you hardest.

After a storm rips through Belfast, your first instinct is to call someone: anyone: to get the problem sorted. But before you pick up the phone, grab your phone and start taking photos.

Emergency Roofing Repair A man sits at a kitchen table reading a newspaper while water pours from the ceiling, indicating a severe roof leak. The Advanced Construction & Roofing logo and contact details are displayed, highlighting emergency roofing repair services.

Why this matters: Insurance companies require evidence. Without clear, time-stamped photos of the damage, your claim can be disputed, delayed, or outright denied.

How to fix it:

  • Take photos from multiple angles: inside and outside your property
  • Capture close-ups of damaged tiles, flashing, and gutters
  • Document any water damage to ceilings, walls, or belongings
  • Note the date, time, and weather conditions
  • Don't clean up or move anything until you've documented everything

This documentation is your lifeline when dealing with insurers. Take it seriously.


Mistake #2: Waiting Too Long to Report the Damage

We get it. You're overwhelmed. You think you'll "get around to it" once things calm down.

Don't wait.

Most insurance policies in Northern Ireland have strict time limits for reporting storm damage. Miss that window, and you could lose your right to claim entirely.

How to fix it:

  • Contact your insurance company within 24-48 hours of the storm
  • Provide all your documentation immediately
  • Keep records of every conversation: names, dates, reference numbers
  • Follow up in writing to create a paper trail

Pro tip: Many insurers will want their own assessor to visit. Don't let this delay you from getting a professional roofing contractor to assess the damage independently.


Mistake #3: Accepting the First Insurance Settlement Without Question

Here's something most homeowners don't realise: the first offer from your insurance company is often not the final offer.

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimise payouts. They're not trying to cheat you: but they're not working for you either.

How to fix it:

  • Get an independent assessment from a qualified roofing contractor before accepting any settlement
  • Compare the insurance estimate with professional repair quotes
  • Challenge the settlement if it doesn't cover necessary repairs
  • Consider hiring a loss assessor if the damage is extensive

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we handle insurance work regularly. We know what repairs actually cost in Belfast, and we can provide detailed assessments that support your claim. Request a free quote and let us help you get the settlement you deserve.


Mistake #4: Hiring the Wrong Contractor

After a major storm, Belfast gets flooded with roofers. Some are legitimate. Many are not.

These "storm chasers" knock on doors, offer too-good-to-be-true prices, and disappear the moment something goes wrong. We've seen homeowners left with botched repairs, voided warranties, and no recourse.

Roofer Roof Inspection in Rain A roofer conducts a detailed inspection of a leaking and damaged roof during heavy rain, identifying broken tiles, exposed timber, and visible moss. The technician is equipped with tools and assesses the extent of emergency repairs needed to prevent further water ingress.

How to fix it:

  • Verify credentials. Are they licensed? Insured? Do they have a physical address in Northern Ireland?
  • Check their track record. Look for reviews, ask for references, check how long they've been in business
  • Get everything in writing. Detailed quotes, timelines, warranty information
  • Avoid pressure tactics. Any contractor pushing you to sign immediately is a red flag

With over 25 years of experience serving homeowners across Belfast and NI, Advanced Construction & Roofing has built our reputation on honest work and transparent pricing. We're not going anywhere: and we stand behind every job we complete.


Mistake #5: Relying on Temporary Fixes

A tarp over the hole. Some sealant around the flashing. A bucket in the attic.

These temporary measures might stop the immediate leak, but they're not solutions. They're band-aids on a broken bone.

Why this is dangerous:

  • Tarps fail in subsequent storms, often making damage worse
  • Sealants mask underlying problems without fixing them
  • Water continues to penetrate, causing hidden structural damage
  • Mould and rot develop behind walls where you can't see them

How to fix it:

  • Use temporary measures only as a short-term emergency response
  • Schedule permanent repairs as quickly as possible
  • Have a professional identify the root cause of leaks: not just the visible symptoms
  • Address underlying issues like damaged felt, compromised timber, or failed flashing

Don't let a quick fix today become a major expense tomorrow.


Mistake #6: Skipping a Professional Roof Inspection

"It doesn't look that bad from the ground."

We hear this constantly. And it's almost always wrong.

Storm damage is often invisible from street level. Missing tiles, cracked flashing, lifted membranes, compromised pointing: these problems hide in plain sight until they cause serious water ingress.

Advanced Construction & Roofing Roof Survey Service A professional roof inspector examines ceiling damage and insulation while taking notes. The image promotes Advanced Construction & Roofing's roof survey service, offering visual surveys, photo evidence, defect identification, and in-depth analysis for property owners. Contact details and a website link are included for booking a survey.

How to fix it:

  • Request a professional roof survey after any significant storm
  • Check both exterior and interior spaces: attic, ceilings, walls
  • Look for signs of water ingress, even if they seem unrelated to the storm
  • Don't attempt to inspect the roof yourself: it's dangerous and you'll miss things

A proper roof survey identifies problems before they escalate. It gives you a clear picture of what needs repair, what can wait, and what your insurance should cover.

Call Advanced Construction & Roofing for a free roof assessment. We'll tell you exactly what you're dealing with: no surprises, no hidden costs.


Mistake #7: Demanding a Full Replacement When Repairs Will Do

This might seem counterintuitive, but hear us out.

Some homeowners assume storm damage means they need an entirely new roof. They push for a full replacement, expecting insurance to cover it.

The reality: Unless your roof has sustained catastrophic, widespread damage, insurance companies won't approve a full replacement claim. Pushing for one can actually delay your repairs and complicate your claim.

How to fix it:

  • Get an honest professional assessment of the damage scope
  • Trust your contractor's recommendation on repair vs. replacement
  • Understand what your insurance policy actually covers
  • Focus on restoring your roof to pre-storm condition, not upgrading it

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we give you the honest answer: even if it means a smaller job for us. If repairs will solve the problem properly, that's what we'll recommend. Your trust matters more than a bigger invoice.


Don't Let Storm Damage Become a Disaster

Storm damage is stressful enough without making costly mistakes that compound the problem.

Here's what you should do right now:

  1. Document all visible damage thoroughly
  2. Report the damage to your insurance company immediately
  3. Contact a trusted, experienced roofing contractor for an independent assessment

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we've helped homeowners across Belfast and Northern Ireland navigate storm damage for over 25 years. We handle insurance work, provide detailed documentation to support your claim, and deliver repairs that last.

Request your free quote today. Call us or visit adv-group.co.uk to schedule your assessment.

Don't wait for the next storm to find out what you missed.

Transform Your Living Space: The Ultimate Guide to Bespoke Media Walls in Northern Ireland

Your living room is the heart of your home. It's where you unwind after a long day, gather with family, and entertain guests. But let's be honest : a TV perched on a wobbly stand with cables trailing across the floor doesn't exactly scream "dream home."

That's where bespoke media walls come in. These stunning custom installations are transforming homes across Northern Ireland, turning ordinary living spaces into sleek, modern entertainment hubs. And at Advanced Construction & Roofing, we've been helping homeowners in Belfast and beyond create these statement features with precision craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Ready to discover what a bespoke media wall could do for your home? Let's dive in.

What Exactly Is a Bespoke Media Wall?

A bespoke media wall isn't just a fancy way to mount your TV. It's a fully customised entertainment feature designed specifically for your space, your style, and your lifestyle.

Think of it as a complete transformation of one wall in your living room. Your television, fireplace, storage, lighting, and décor all come together in one seamless, cohesive design. No visible cables. No cluttered shelves. Just a clean, contemporary focal point that makes your living room look like something out of an interior design magazine.

The beauty of a bespoke installation? Every single element is tailored to you. From the width of your shelving to the colour of your LED lighting strips, nothing is off-the-shelf. It's built around your TV size, your room dimensions, and your personal taste.

Modern Living Room with Custom Media Wall

Why Are Media Walls So Popular in Northern Ireland?

Homeowners across Belfast, Lisburn, Antrim, and County Down are choosing bespoke media walls for one simple reason: they deliver maximum impact with minimal fuss.

Here's what's driving the trend:

  • Space optimisation : Media walls eliminate the need for bulky TV units and separate fireplace surrounds, freeing up valuable floor space
  • Cable management : All wiring is concealed within the structure, creating a clean, clutter-free finish
  • Added value : A professionally installed media wall can increase the appeal and value of your property
  • Personalisation : Every design is unique to your home, ensuring your living room stands out

Northern Ireland's unpredictable weather means we spend plenty of time indoors. Why not make that indoor space somewhere you genuinely love to be?

Key Features of a Stunning Media Wall

What separates a basic TV setup from a show-stopping media wall? It's all in the details. Here are the features that make bespoke installations so impressive:

Integrated Electric Fireplaces

Nothing creates ambiance quite like a flickering flame. Modern electric fireplaces slot seamlessly beneath your TV, providing warmth and visual appeal without the hassle of a traditional fireplace. They're energy-efficient, easy to control, and available in various widths to complement your screen size perfectly.

LED Ambient Lighting

Strategic lighting transforms a media wall from good to extraordinary. LED strips behind your TV reduce eye strain during evening viewing. Illuminated shelving creates depth and showcases your favourite items. Colour-changing options let you set the mood for movie nights or parties.

Custom Cabinetry and Storage

Say goodbye to cluttered entertainment units. Bespoke media walls incorporate hidden storage cupboards for games consoles, sound systems, and all the bits and bobs that tend to accumulate. Floating shelves display books, plants, and décor without the visual weight of traditional furniture.

Premium Finishes

From sleek painted MDF to contemporary slat wall designs, the finish options are virtually endless. Whether you prefer minimalist white, dramatic black, or warm natural wood tones, your media wall can match your existing décor or become the starting point for a complete room refresh.

Custom-built Media Wall

The Design and Installation Process: What to Expect

Wondering how it all comes together? Here's a breakdown of the typical journey from initial idea to finished feature:

Step 1: Design Consultation

Everything starts with a conversation. A professional will visit your home to assess your space, discuss your vision, and understand your requirements. What size is your TV? Do you want a fireplace? How much storage do you need? What's your budget?

This consultation is usually free and no-obligation : it's simply about exploring what's possible.

Step 2: Custom Design Concepts

Based on your consultation, you'll receive detailed design concepts showing exactly how your media wall will look. This is your chance to tweak dimensions, adjust features, and make sure everything is perfect before any work begins.

Step 3: Professional Installation

Once you've approved the design, the real magic happens. A skilled team handles everything:

  • Joinery work : Building the framework and structure
  • Electrical cabling : Installing sockets, lighting connections, and fireplace wiring
  • Bespoke shelving : Creating custom storage solutions
  • Fireplace fitting : Integrating your chosen electric fire
  • Plastering and finishing : Delivering a flawless surface ready for decorating

The result? A seamless, high-quality installation that looks like it was always part of your home.

Why Choose a Professional for Your Media Wall?

You might be tempted to tackle a media wall as a DIY project. After all, how hard can it be to build some shelves and mount a TV?

Here's the truth: a poorly executed media wall can look worse than no media wall at all. Uneven shelving, visible cables, wonky fireplace surrounds, and dodgy plastering will undermine everything you're trying to achieve.

Professional installation ensures:

  • Structural integrity : Your wall can safely support the weight of your TV and fireplace
  • Electrical safety : All wiring meets current regulations and is properly concealed
  • Perfect proportions : Every element is balanced and visually harmonious
  • Flawless finishing : Plastering and paintwork are smooth and professional
  • Warranty protection : Quality workmanship backed by proper guarantees

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, our team brings years of experience in interior construction and refurbishment. We understand that the details matter : because it's the details that transform a good media wall into an exceptional one.

Design Options to Suit Every Budget

Bespoke doesn't have to mean expensive. Media walls come in various configurations to suit different budgets and room sizes:

Configuration What's Included
Classic Media Wall TV and fireplace centrally positioned with basic surround
Three-Sided Configuration Extended coverage with side panels and additional shelving
Full Media Wall Complete wall coverage with integrated lighting and storage
Full Media Wall with Cupboards Maximum storage with concealed cabinetry

Flexible payment options are often available, including interest-free credit, making it easier to achieve your dream living room without breaking the bank.

Serving Homeowners Across Northern Ireland

Whether you're based in Belfast, County Down, Lisburn, Antrim, Ballymena, Portrush, or anywhere in between, professional media wall installation is available to you. Local expertise means we understand Northern Irish homes : from period properties with character features to modern new-builds with open-plan layouts.

No project is too big or too small. Whether you want a simple TV and fireplace combination or a full wall transformation with extensive storage, the same attention to detail goes into every installation.

Ready to Transform Your Living Room?

A bespoke media wall isn't just a home improvement : it's an investment in how you live. Imagine walking into your living room and feeling genuinely proud of the space. Imagine cosy evenings with the fire flickering and the lights dimmed. Imagine never tripping over trailing cables again.

Request a free consultation today. Our team will visit your home, discuss your ideas, and show you exactly what's possible within your budget. There's no pressure and no obligation : just honest advice from experienced professionals who love what they do.

Contact Advanced Construction & Roofing to start your media wall journey. Your dream living room is closer than you think.

Looking For a Roofer After Storm Damage? Here Are 10 Things You Should Know

Storm damage doesn't wait for a convenient time. One minute you're watching the weather forecast, the next you're staring at water dripping through your ceiling wondering what to do next.

If you're a homeowner in Belfast or anywhere across Northern Ireland dealing with storm damage right now, take a breath. You're not alone, and you're in the right place.

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we've been helping families just like yours recover from storm damage for over 25 years. We know how stressful this situation is. That's why we've put together this guide, so you know exactly what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to avoid the cowboys who prey on desperate homeowners.

Here are 10 things you absolutely need to know before hiring a roofer after storm damage.


1. Document Everything Before You Touch Anything

This is the most important step, and it's the one most people skip.

Before you move debris, before you start cleaning up, before you do anything, grab your phone and start recording. Take photos and videos of every single area of damage you can safely access. Get wide shots and close-ups. Capture the mess.

Why? Because your insurance company will want proof. And the more evidence you have, the smoother your claim will go.

Save receipts for everything, even if you've had to pay someone to remove a fallen tree or cover a hole temporarily. These costs are often recoverable through your insurance.

Emergency Roofing Repair A man sits at a kitchen table reading a newspaper while water pours from the ceiling, indicating a severe roof leak. The Advanced Construction & Roofing logo and contact details are displayed, highlighting emergency roofing repair services.


2. Safety Comes First, Always

We understand the urge to climb up and assess the damage yourself. Please don't.

After a storm, your roof structure may be compromised in ways you can't see from the ground. Wet surfaces are slippery. Damaged areas can collapse without warning. And if power lines are down or there's any chance of a gas leak, you're putting yourself in serious danger.

Call a professional. That's what we're here for. We offer emergency call-outs across Belfast and Northern Ireland, and we can be on-site quickly to secure your property and prevent further damage.


3. Know What Visible Damage Looks Like

You don't need to be a roofing expert to spot the obvious signs of storm damage. Here's what to look for from ground level:

  • Missing, curled, or cracked slates/tiles
  • Dents or holes from hail or flying debris
  • Damaged or missing flashing around chimneys and vents
  • Gutters hanging off or completely torn away
  • Ridge tiles displaced or missing

If you can see any of these from the ground, there's likely more damage you can't see. Request a professional inspection immediately.


4. Hidden Damage Is More Common Than You Think

Here's the thing about storm damage: the worst of it is often invisible.

Wind and hail can compromise your roof's integrity without leaving obvious external signs. Water can seep through tiny gaps and cause damage to your insulation, timber, and ceilings over weeks or months.

Check your attic. Look for water spots on the underside of the roof, damp insulation, or any signs of moisture. Check your ceilings for stains or bubbling paint. These are warning signs that water is getting in somewhere.

Advanced Construction & Roofing Roof Survey Service A professional roof inspector examines ceiling damage and insulation while taking notes. The image promotes Advanced Construction & Roofing's roof survey service, offering visual surveys, photo evidence, defect identification, and in-depth analysis for property owners. Contact details and a website link are included for booking a survey.

If you're unsure, book a professional roof survey with us. We'll give you a comprehensive report with photos and recommendations: no guesswork involved.


5. Check Your Insurance Coverage Before You Commit

Before you agree to any repairs, contact your insurance company.

Many homeowners don't realise that storm damage is often covered under their home insurance policy. But here's the catch: you need to follow their process. That usually means:

  • Reporting the damage promptly
  • Getting authorisation before major repairs
  • Using approved contractors (or getting quotes approved)
  • Providing documentation (those photos you took in step 1)

Ask your insurer these questions:

  • Is storm damage covered under my policy?
  • Do I need to get multiple quotes?
  • Is there a preferred contractor list?
  • What's my excess?

A reputable roofer will understand this process and work with you and your insurer to make the claim as smooth as possible.


6. Look for Local Reputation and Real Reviews

After a big storm, you'll suddenly see "roofers" appearing out of nowhere. Vans with no signage. Door knockers with too-good-to-be-true quotes. Lads who "just happened to be in the area."

Be very, very careful.

These storm chasers take your money, do a bodge job (or no job at all), and disappear. You're left with a worse problem than you started with and no way to contact them.

Here's what to look for instead:

  • A local company with a physical presence in Belfast or Northern Ireland
  • Verified reviews on Google, Facebook, or Checkatrade
  • Years of experience: not months
  • Clear contact details and a proper website
  • Membership of trade bodies or manufacturer certifications

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we've been serving Northern Ireland for over 25 years. Our reputation is built on honest work and happy customers. Check our reviews: we're proud of every single one.


7. Demand a Fast Response: 48 Hours Maximum

When your roof is damaged, every hour counts. Water ingress can turn a minor repair into a major rebuild if left unchecked.

You need a roofer who can respond fast.

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we offer 48-hour emergency response times across Belfast and the surrounding areas. When you call us, we answer. When you need us, we're there.

Don't settle for a roofer who can't see you for two weeks. By then, the damage could be ten times worse.


8. Expect a Comprehensive Inspection: Not a Quick Glance

A proper post-storm inspection isn't a five-minute job. Any roofer worth their salt will check:

  • Roof tiles/slates and their fixings
  • Roof felt and underlay
  • Decking and timber structure
  • Insulation condition
  • Ventilation systems
  • Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
  • Gutters, downpipes, and drainage
  • Fascias and soffits

If a roofer gives you a quote after spending two minutes on your roof, walk away. They haven't done their job properly, and their quote is probably missing something important.

Roofer Roof Inspection in Rain A roofer conducts a detailed inspection of a leaking and damaged roof during heavy rain, identifying broken tiles, exposed timber, and visible moss. The technician is equipped with tools and assesses the extent of emergency repairs needed to prevent further water ingress.

Learn more about what a professional roof survey involves.


9. Insist on Transparency: No Hidden Costs

Before any work begins, you should have a clear, written quote that includes:

  • Itemised breakdown of all work
  • Material specifications
  • Labour costs
  • Timeline for completion
  • Payment terms
  • Warranty information

If a roofer won't give you this in writing, find someone who will.

We believe in complete transparency. You'll know exactly what you're paying for, when the work will be done, and what guarantees you're getting. No surprises, no hidden charges, no nonsense.


10. Emergency Call-Outs Can Save You Thousands

Here's the reality: fast action after storm damage can save you thousands of pounds.

A small leak left for a week can destroy ceilings, damage electrics, ruin insulation, and even compromise structural timber. What could have been a £500 repair becomes a £5,000 rebuild.

That's why we offer emergency call-outs across Belfast and Northern Ireland.

When you call Advanced Construction & Roofing, we'll get to you fast, secure your property, prevent further damage, and give you an honest assessment of what needs doing. We work with your insurance company. We provide full documentation. And we stand behind our work with proper warranties.


What Should You Do Right Now?

If you're dealing with storm damage in Belfast or anywhere in Northern Ireland, here's your action plan:

  1. Document everything with photos and videos
  2. Stay safe: don't climb on your roof
  3. Contact your insurance company to report the damage
  4. Call a reputable local roofer for an emergency inspection

Need help right now? Contact Advanced Construction & Roofing today. We offer emergency call-outs, 48-hour response times, and over 25 years of experience protecting Northern Ireland homes.

Call us or visit adv-group.co.uk to book your emergency inspection.

Don't let storm damage turn into a disaster. Get the right help, get it fast, and get your home protected.