External roofs and cladding form the main protective envelope of a building, shielding it from weather exposure, temperature variation, and water ingress.

With 40 years of experience working in industrial, food manufacturing, and temperature-controlled environments, our team understands the demands placed on roof systems in live operational facilities. Our surveys provide clear information on the condition and performance of roofing structures, cladding systems, and concealed roof void spaces, helping clients plan maintenance, repairs, and refurbishment works on an informed basis.

What Our Surveys Assess

Our specialists carry out detailed inspections of external roofing systems, cladding installations, and internal roof voids to identify deterioration, damage, or design issues that may affect performance. These surveys typically examine:

  • signs of water ingress, leaks, or failed waterproofing systems
  • the condition of roof membranes, flashings, gutters, and drainage points
  • the condition of roof decks, purlins, and supporting elements
  • the performance and condition of external cladding panels and fixings
  • thermal performance and insulation continuity within roof voids
  • evidence of condensation, mould growth, or inadequate ventilation
  • potential risks to building fabric, internal environments, or production areas

Where required, inspections can incorporate high-level access, drone imagery, or thermal imaging to help identify hidden defects while minimising disruption to day-to-day operations.

Regulatory and Technical Considerations

Roof and cladding systems may need to be assessed against a range of statutory and technical requirements depending on the building type, age, and proposed works. Our surveys consider relevant compliance and performance issues, which may include the Building Regulations 2010 in England, particularly Approved Document A for structure, Approved Document B for fire safety, and Approved Document L for conservation of fuel and power.

Where relevant, we also consider recognised industry standards, including:

  • BS 6229:2025 for flat roofs with continuously supported flexible waterproof coverings
  • BS 5534:2014+A2:2018 for slating and tiling on pitched roofs and vertical cladding
  • BS EN 14509:2013 for factory-made double-skin metal-faced insulating panels used in roof and wall systems
  • the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 in relation to safe inspection, maintenance, and planning of remedial works

This allows us to identify risks early and provide practical recommendations that support building performance, maintenance planning, and safe operation.

Supporting Operational Facilities

Many of our surveys take place in live operational environments such as food manufacturing plants, cold stores, and logistics facilities. Roof defects in these settings can affect temperature control, hygiene standards, and operational reliability. Our team plans inspections carefully to minimise disruption while gathering the technical information needed to inform maintenance strategies or refurbishment works.

Our experience across complex industrial buildings enables us to identify issues such as panel joint failure, insulation degradation, condensation build-up, drainage defects, and structural movement in context.

Following the survey, clients receive a detailed technical report outlining:

  • observed defects and areas of concern
  • photographic evidence and survey data
  • assessment of structural or operational risk
  • recommendations for repair, refurbishment, or preventative maintenance

This information helps building owners, facilities managers, and project teams prioritise remedial works and plan long-term asset management more effectively.

Whether the requirement is to investigate a suspected leak, assess the condition of an ageing cladding system, or understand the performance of an existing roof build-up, Ambrey Baker can provide the survey information needed to support safe and informed decisions.

Leading Specialists in Industrial Facilities