Flat roofing in Shirley

Before your flat roof in Shirley

This kind of work rarely needs planning permission, but it does have to comply with Building Regulations, and some parts must be certified by a registered installer or signed off by building control. In Shirley, building control is provided by Solihull Council or a registered building control approver (formerly an approved inspector).

Because a warm-roof build-up raises the roof level, door thresholds and upstands need checking.
Turning a flat roof into a pitched roof, or adding a roof terrace, usually needs planning permission.
Rotten decking is only found once the old roof is stripped, and any repair is agreed in writing first.

Postcode district: B90
Planning and building control: Solihull Council
From our West Bromwich base: 10 miles

Options to consider in Shirley

EPDM rubber roof

A single sheet of synthetic rubber bonded to the deck, often in one piece with no joints on smaller roofs. EPDM handles temperature changes well, is quick to lay and needs little maintenance. It's a good all-round choice for garages and extensions, though it has a plain black finish and needs care around complex details.

Torch-on felt

Modern reinforced bitumen membranes laid in two or three layers, bonded with heat. They're tougher and longer-lasting than old felt and suit roofs with lots of upstands and pipes. Felt is often the cheapest option, but it takes longer to lay and naked flames on site need extra fire precautions.

How much should you budget in Shirley?

Guide prices start at £1,300 and run to £7,500 depending on size and specification. Strip and replace a 20 m² rear extension roof in EPDM, with new deck and warm-roof insulation: around £3,200–£4,600.

Guide prices for flat roofing
Option	Guide price	Good to know
Single garage roof	£1,300 – £2,600	About 15–18 m², strip and re-cover
Rear extension roof	£2,400 – £5,200	About 20–30 m², usually with insulation
Dormer or larger roof	£3,800 – £7,500	Upper-floor access, scaffold and detailing

Guide ranges include VAT where it applies. A free survey turns this guide into a fixed, itemised price.

Flat roofing in Shirley: common questions

Which lasts longer, EPDM or GRP?

Both last far longer than old felt when properly laid, and the quality of the installation matters more than the material. EPDM is flexible and handles movement well, while GRP gives a hard, walkable, joint-free finish that suits complex shapes. Manufacturers' expected lifespans vary by product, and the guarantee terms for your roof are set out in your quote.

Do you cover Shirley?

Yes. Shirley (B90) is about 10 miles from our West Bromwich base and inside the area we cover. Call 0800 088 6248 or send the form on this page to book a free survey.

Why does my flat roof leak when the surface looks fine?

Most leaks start at the edges, joints, outlets or where the roof meets a wall, not in the open middle of the roof. Water can also travel along the deck before it shows on the ceiling, so the stain may be a long way from the actual entry point. We check these details at survey before suggesting a repair or replacement.

Will I need permission from the council in Shirley?

You won't usually need planning permission, but the work must meet Building Regulations. Building control in Shirley is provided by Solihull Council or a registered building control approver, and some work is self-certified by registered installers.

Close to Shirley

More services in Shirley

Garage, extension or dormer, call 0800 088 6248 and we'll arrange a roof visit in Shirley.