Roof cleaning is one of the highest-risk activities in exterior cleaning. Working at height, handling chemicals, and operating on fragile or slippery surfaces creates a combination of hazards that demands a thorough, well-structured method statement. Here is exactly what yours must include.
Why Roof Cleaning Requires a Detailed Method Statement
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require that any work carried out at height is properly planned, appropriately supervised, and carried out in a safe manner. Regulation 4 specifically requires that work at height is only carried out when it cannot reasonably be done any other way, and that the most appropriate equipment is selected.
A method statement for roof cleaning must demonstrate that you have considered all of these requirements and have a clear, safe plan for carrying out the work. It is not sufficient to simply state that workers will “take care” — the method statement must describe specific, verifiable control measures.
Essential Sections of a Roof Cleaning Method Statement
Scope of Works
Describe the specific roof cleaning task — the type of roof (pitched, flat, slate, tile, felt), the cleaning method (softwash, pressure wash, manual scraping), the area to be treated, and the expected duration of the work. Include the property address and any site-specific considerations.
Access Arrangements
Detail exactly how operatives will access the roof. Options include: ladders (with specific reference to the Work at Height Regulations 2005 requirements for ladder use), scaffolding (with reference to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015), mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), or rope access systems. Each method requires its own risk assessment and competency requirements.
Fall Protection Measures
Specify the fall protection measures in place. Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, collective protection (e.g. scaffolding, edge protection, safety nets) must be preferred over personal protection (e.g. harnesses). Where harnesses are used, specify the anchor points, the type of harness, and the training/competency requirements for operatives.
Roof Surface Assessment
Identify the type of roof surface and any fragile areas. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 Schedule 2 specifically addresses fragile surfaces and requires that no person passes over or near a fragile surface unless suitable platforms, coverings, or other means of support are provided. Identify any skylights, rooflights, or other fragile elements.
Chemical Application Method
If chemicals are being applied (e.g. biocide treatments, moss killers), describe the application method, the dilution rates, the dwell time, and the neutralisation or rinse procedure. Reference the relevant COSHH assessment and specify the PPE required for chemical handling.
Environmental Protection
Describe the measures in place to prevent chemical runoff entering drains, gutters, or watercourses. This may include bunding, absorbent materials, or temporary drain covers. Reference the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Water Resources Act 1991.
Exclusion Zones and Public Safety
Specify the exclusion zone around the work area to protect members of the public, residents, and other workers from falling debris, chemical spray, or water. Describe how the exclusion zone will be established and maintained — barriers, signage, and supervision.
Weather Conditions
State the weather conditions under which work will and will not proceed. Roof cleaning should not be carried out in high winds (typically above Beaufort Scale 5), heavy rain, ice, or frost. Specify who is responsible for monitoring weather conditions and making the decision to suspend work.
Emergency Procedures
Describe the emergency procedures in the event of a fall, chemical exposure, or other incident. Include the location of first aid equipment, the name of the first aider on site, the nearest hospital with an A&E department, and the procedure for contacting emergency services.
Competency Requirements
Your method statement should also specify the competency requirements for operatives carrying out roof cleaning work. This includes:
RAMS Creator allows you to attach training certificates and qualifications directly to your RAMS document, providing clients and principal contractors with immediate evidence of your team's competency. This is particularly important for roof cleaning work, where the risks are significant and clients will scrutinise your documentation carefully.
HSE Guidance
The HSE publishes specific guidance on working at height (INDG401) and on the selection and use of access equipment. These documents are freely available on the HSE website and should be referenced when producing method statements for roof cleaning work.
