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What a roofer does
A roofer covers and weatherproofs roofs using materials such as tiles, slates, felt, single-ply membranes, lead or other metals. The role keeps buildings watertight, whether on new build, re-roofing or repair work.
Roofing is carried out at height, so safe access and fall protection are central to the role. Roofers often specialise — for example in pitched tiling and slating or in flat-roof membranes — while sharing the same focus on a durable, weathertight finish.
Core responsibilities
- Setting out and fixing battens, underlay and coverings.
- Laying tiles, slates, felt, membranes or metal to detail.
- Forming ridges, valleys, flashings and weatherproof junctions.
- Repairing leaks and replacing damaged coverings.
- Working safely at height with access and fall protection.
- Clearing debris and leaving the roof watertight.
Skills and qualities
- A good head for heights and safe working practice.
- Knowledge of roofing materials, details and weatherproofing.
- Accuracy in setting out and a watertight finish.
- Physical fitness for working outdoors at height.
- Care with access equipment and fall protection.
- Reliability and good teamwork on site.
Typical employers and settings
- Roofing contractors and specialists.
- Construction firms and main contractors.
- Maintenance and refurbishment companies.
- Housing providers and property managers.
- Domestic and commercial clients.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly or through trade and labour agencies.
- Screening looks at experience, working-at-height competence and right to work.
- Interviews are practical and may include a skills assessment.
- Employers commonly check references and required safety cards.
- Onboarding covers site rules, access procedures and the tasks.
Documents involved
- A job description setting out the tasks and any qualifications.
- Proof of relevant roofing experience or qualifications.
- An employment contract or assignment terms for agency work.
- An offer letter confirming role, site and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- A safety induction and working-at-height training record.
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