New build roofing issues in Salisbury emerge after the 10-year NHBC period: dry ridge clip loosening, Velux flashing failure, and felt flat roof defects. Old Sarum properties are now entering this window. We provide independent post-NHBC assessments free. Call 0172 223 9611.
New build properties carry NHBC structural warranties, but several roofing defect types emerge specifically in the 10-15 year window after that warranty expires. Salisbury's newer developments — including Old Sarum — are now entering this window.
Dry Ridge and Dry Hip Clip Failures
Modern new-build roofs use plastic clip-fixed dry ridge and dry hip systems rather than mortar-bedded approaches. These clips rely on correct installation and are vulnerable to progressive loosening from sustained wind loading — particularly on exposed sites like Old Sarum at 80m. Once clips loosen, ridge tiles shift, gaps open, and wind-driven rain enters. This is the most common new-build roofing call in Salisbury's newer developments.
The NHBC Buildmark warranty covers major structural defects for ten years but excludes routine roofing maintenance and many installation defects — a gap that manifests as dry-ridge and flashing failures after year ten.
— NHBC Buildmark terms
Velux Flashing Failures
The EDW flashing kit standard to Velux installations has a service life of 10-15 years in average UK conditions — less on exposed south-west-facing slopes. New build properties with loft conversions installed at build are now approaching the end of this first flashing service life. The symptom is typically water appearing at the window frame edge.
Flat Roof Extension Defects
Builder-installed flat roofs on new-build extensions commonly use felt rather than GRP or EPDM, with service lives of 10-15 years. Installation defects — insufficient fall, inadequate upstand height — often emerge within the first 5-10 years. If you have a felt flat roof on a 2010s property, a professional inspection is worthwhile before problems develop.
The NHBC Gap
NHBC covers major structural defects, not installation defects in roofing that fall short of structural failure. Dry ridge clip loosening, Velux flashing failure and felt degradation are typically in the gap between what builders consider their obligation and what NHBC covers. Independent professional assessment is the only way to document these issues clearly.
What to Do if You Find Defects
Document everything with photographs and dates. Get a written professional assessment confirming the defect nature and cause. Within the builder warranty period (usually 1-2 years), pursue the builder directly. After that, your recourse is your own buildings insurance if the failure constitutes sudden damage, or remedial repair at your cost. We provide written assessments for this purpose.
Property on Old Sarum or another Salisbury development past its NHBC period? Free survey and permanent repairs. Call now.
📞 0172 223 9611Last reviewed: 21 July 2026 by Salisbury Roofing Experts