Q:We are looking to buy a small cottage in the west country, which was built around 1920. It seems in reasonable order modernised and renovated.
The roof is the original one and is made from dark pink tiles which we think are probably some sort of asbestos which was used extensively at the time, these laid out in a diamond pattern, quite pretty really. The roof doesn't leak and there appears to be no signs of repairs apart from some cementing on the ridge tiles. Having looked in the roof space, tiles look new and undamaged.
My questions are,
1. should we be concerned about the roof,
2. should it be replaced, could it be treated in any way if it contains asbestos (I thought it was just the old corrugated asbestos shed roofing that was an issue ..info from tele programmes),
3. do local authorities give a grant to replace this type of roof,
4. is replacement expensive ie cost per sq metre,
5. should we ask the vendor to replace the roof before sale, as a condition of sale or should we just put in a lower offer (cottage is ideal and I'd really like to have it)
6. what is the life span of this type of roof
7. If the roof needs to be replaced would this mean we would need stronger rafters as I assume concrete tiles would be much heavier
Help please
Anyway, the survey said the tiles were fine, but do not drill, crack or move them ourselves and to get a certified builder in to do any work required in the future.
Asbestos is only a problem if it is disintegrating, if it is in good condition the general advice is to leave well alone.
I can't see the sellers agreeing to replace a roof in good condition.
When the roof does need replacing there will be extra costs in safely removing the asbestos. I would imagine one tile would be sent for analysis first and then you would know if it does contain asbestos.
Before we have survey done, I'd like to have some information, so I thought I'd ask here where there's a wealth of experience and expertise from moneysavers.