Whilst working on a domestic property in Yorkshire last week, the DPR team had a visit from the Bat Conservation trust after bat droppings were noticed in the roof of a home in Yorkshire we were replacing.
Because bats are a protected species in the UK, you have to be very careful when working in roof spaces where they are present. DPR have also had to change the types of recommendations we would usually make for roof renewals to ensure we work within the guidelines and keep the protected species from harm. This means you will be committing a criminal offence if you damage or destroy a bat roosting place (even if bats are not occupying the roost at the time).
The materials used must be friendly towards bat habitats and as a result, DPR have had to source 1980’s roof felt for this job. Whilst it is considered a sub-standard material and will not last as long as other more modern roofing systems, it will allow for the safe living of bats within the space for years to come.
Bats are a very unique animal and despite playing a key role in the environment, have seen their number dwindle through changes in land usage and persecution. Since 1991 the Bat Conservation Trust has run a diverse range of projects to conserve bat populations. Their main plan however is to have humans and bats living in environments which are safe for both.
If you should have a roof problem and are worried that you may have bats within your roof, please do not hesitate to contact one of our team. We have experience working with protected species and can source the materials needed to ensure your repairs comply with current environmental rules.