Roofs and flat roofs
What is the difference between a slipped slate and a slate that has already fallen?
A slipped slate has moved but may still be on the roof, often letting water in at that point. A fallen slate leaves a gap and may be in the gutter or on the ground. Both need attention. Neither one, on its own, tells you the whole covering is at the end of its life.
Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Written for buyers in England and Wales unless this answer says otherwise. No named surveyor has signed this page. It is general guidance, not a report on your house, and not legal advice.
What is the fuller explanation?
Water follows the gap, not the drama of the wording. One opening can wet the battens and the ceiling below if the underlay has also failed or was never there. A surveyor records what was visible on the day. More slips may be on the hidden slope. The loft, if it was entered, is where staining and daylight show up.
The immediate step is to stop the opening. A roofer can often re-fix or replace a small number without re-covering the roof. If the surveyor saw widespread unevenness, ask them whether they think the fixings are generally failing. That is a different job. Get the scope in writing before you compare quotes.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- How many slips or gaps did you actually see, and on which slopes?
- Was the loft inspected, and was the underlay present?
- Is this a maintenance item or a covering that is losing its fixings?
What are the typical next steps?
- Ask the seller whether anyone has recently re-fixed slates, and whether slips have repeated.
- Get a quote for the visible openings first if the rest of the roof looked even.
- If the loft was not inspected, do not treat the roof as passed.
Costs vary with the building and with who you instruct. Where this page does not cite a published figure, ask the surveyor, a relevant specialist, or your solicitor for a written quote. Do not treat a forum average as the price.
Also asked about this
Can a slate in the garden be from next door?
Yes, on a terrace. Look at which slope has the gap before you blame this roof.
Will a home survey include putting the slate back?
No. The survey records condition. Re-fixing is a roofer’s instruction.