Slate Roof Repairs in Melbourne

What slate roof repairs in Melbourne actually involves

Before complete replacement is considered, the condition of the existing slate should be clarified. Under Clause 43.0-1 of the Planning Scheme, a planning permit is not required for works, repairs and routine maintenance that do not change the appearance of the heritage place, if the proposal is carried out to the same details, specifications and materials as existing. City of Melbourne puts the same idea for its own area: under the Heritage Overlay you do not need a permit for routine repairs and maintenance that replace ‘like for like’ so long as they do not change the appearance of the place or impact on its significance. The sheet is dated July 2023.

What a repair quote should say

The sheet says the battening and nailing system as well as the proposed materials for flashings and valleys should be documented as part of the application A repair quote that covers flashings or valleys should say what they are made of and what is being kept. If you have any questions, or are unsure, please contact Council’s planning department.

Ask the provider whether the quote is for repair or for replacement, what it assumes about the nails and battens, and whether the council needs to be asked.

Slate Roof Repairs in Melbourne — common questions

Do slate roof repairs need a permit in a Heritage Overlay?

Under the Heritage Overlay you do not need a permit for routine repairs and maintenance that replace ‘like for like’ so long as they do not change the appearance of the place or impact on its significance. Other councils have their own rules, so ask yours.

What comes before replacing a slate roof?

A Victorian council's heritage sheet says: Before complete replacement is considered, the condition of the existing slate should be clarified.

Does a repair need a registered builder?

Once the cost is more than A$10,000, a major domestic building contract is required and the builder must be registered. Roof slating has no class named by the Building and Plumbing Commission, so ask which registration the quote is under.