DIY guideAttic and insulation

Look into the attic from the hatch

From a ladder at the hatch, look for frost, damp, daylight and nests, so a roof or vent problem is caught early. Never touch pebbly insulation.

8 steps

Tap a step to watch it again.

Open a stepladder fully under the hatch, on a clear, level floor.
Don't stand on the top step, and keep a hand on the ladder.
Push the hatch up and slide it over.
Wear a dust mask and goggles: dust and fibres can fall as it opens.
Shine a light on the underside of the roof. Frost, dark stains or wet patches mean damp air or a leak.
Switch your light off for a moment. Daylight anywhere but the vents at the edges means a gap.
It should be even and dry. Flattened or wet patches, droppings or nests need a look.
Loose grey-brown pebbles with shiny flecks: don't touch them or climb in.
It may be vermiculite, which can hold asbestos.
Look at the wall between you and next door. It should run solid up to the roof; gaps are a pro's to close.
Close the hatch and take photos. Frost, stains or daylight: ask Handyman for a roofer. Droppings: a pest pro. Pebbly fill: a tester.

Handyman says: Damp or daylight? I'll find a roofer.

Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.