Not every home is the right home – and that’s okay!
Why this property investor walked away and saved thousands thanks to a Drone Roof Survey.
At Manchester Drone Surveys, we recently carried out a drone roof inspection for a client in Reddish, Stockport, who was looking to purchase a property for development and resale.
On paper, the property seemed like a great opportunity — a solid investment to renovate, add value, and sell on for a profit.
But once we got a look at the roof from above, the story changed.
The Property: A Fixer-Upper with Potential
Our client was in the process of buying a home with the intention of flipping it. The location was ideal, and the floorplan had promise. But before committing, they wanted a drone inspection to spot any major issues, especially hidden ones. That’s where we came in.
What the Drone Inspection Found
Our aerial survey identified several key concerns:
- Widespread wear to the clay tile roof: particularly to the ridge and hip tiles, which were missing mortar and likely loose.
- Visible signs of water damage and ‘blown’ tiles: on the rear and side elevations, indicating that the roof was likely nearing the end of its usable life.
- A flat roof extension at the rear showed signs of water pooling and structural fatigue.
- The extension itself appeared suspicious: the construction and finish didn't seem to meet standard building practices.
The Real Issue: Building Regulations
Following our report, the client conducted further checks with their solicitor and local authority. It turned out that the rear extension did not have building regulation approval.
This meant major risk:
- No official sign-off on the structure
- Uncertainty over insulation, fire safety, and stability
- Potential refusal of mortgage or insurance
- Costly remediation work down the line
The client made the smart decision to walk away before purchase, avoiding a financial headache that could have seriously impacted their profit margin.
The Power of Drone Inspections for Investors
This case is a perfect example of why property investors and developers are increasingly turning to drone surveys before committing to a deal.
✅ You get a clear, high-definition view of the entire roof
✅ Issues are identified early — before you invest
✅ You can budget accurately for repairs or walk away entirely
✅ No scaffolding or ladders needed — safe, fast, and affordable
Are You Investing in Property?
If you’re buying to renovate and sell, your margins matter. A hidden issue like a failing roof or a rogue extension can wipe out your profits.
Based in Marple, we work across Stockport and Greater Manchester, helping homebuyers, landlords, and property developers make informed decisions.
Book Your Drone Roof Survey Today
Ready to protect your investment? Contact us today or send us a message on Facebook.
Manchester Drone Surveys
Modern, safe, affordable inspections — from a new perspective.