5 he is still learning even after 30 years, and the fact that things change so fast when it comes to construction and technology means this learning is a constant process. Elaborating, Philip said: “For me, there is nothing more satisfying than arriving at a site I have never been to before, where a client has been struggling with ongoing water ingress, sometimes for a number of years, and being able to get to the bottom of the problem. There have been occasions where previous surveys and investigations have taken place without identifying the actual cause, and within a short time of being on the roof I have been able to see what is happening.” It could be as simple as a small detail that that has been installed incorrectly, but even the smallest details can cause a major problem for the building and the people using it. Philip and the team again rely on their experience for this, giving them an understanding of where to look and, more importantly, what exactly they are looking for. These experts have also carried out roof and cladding defect investigations for companies like AVIVA following storm damage. On this occasion, it involved investigating the damage, establishing what happened, and then working with the relevant manufacturers to develop a sustainable solution for the problem. PLS Surveys also has a track record of working with major contractors such as Kier and Sir Robert McApline, adding an extra layer of trust and excellence to its services. “I suppose what makes me proud isn’t necessarily the size of the project or the name of the client. It is being brought in because somebody needs an answer, finding the cause of the problem, and being able to give the client a clear way forward.” Like the industry itself, the nature of the projects Philip has completed have changed massively over the last three decades. For instance, he told us of the increase the team are seeing in solar PV systems being installed on commercial roofs, with building owners looking to reduce energy costs and improve property sustainability. Whilst this is obviously a positive shift, many people are forgetting to ask one fundamental question as they install systems that could sit for 25 years: “Will the roof underneath it last another 25 years?” This is where PLS Surveys’ roof condition surveys come into play, as this independent roofing and cladding consultancy can conduct commercial roof surveys before solar PV installation, examining the roof prior to any investment being made and then thoroughly inspecting the work as it progresses. This helps to protect the building owner, the PV contractor, and ultimately, the long-term performance of a roof. Everyone at this family-run business is wholly committed to this, and Philip is incredibly proud to have created an environment where the atmosphere is professional but also down to earth, with the personal side of PLS Surveys being perhaps one of its most defining characteristics. As it looks to grow, this is something the business is keen on preserving, and Philip spoke of growing in the right way as being top of the list regarding his company’s plans for the rest of the year. From cautiously embracing AI to growing the team and developing other areas of the business, everything PLS Surveys does will be grounded in this focus, and winning two awards from us as part of the Real Estate and Property Awards 2026 is testament to the fact that Philip and his team are heading in the right direction. However, he reaffirmed that all of this is only just the beginning. When he started out more than 30 years ago, Philip Smith never could have imagined that he would one day end up in charge of this own independent roofing and cladding consultancy, let alone winning awards for it. He has simply worked his way through the industry, learning at every stage and always striving to be better in what he does. Being ex-tools gives Philip and his independent, family-run business the edge, and has contributed to its reputation as the leading roofing and cladding consultancy in the UK. In closing, Philip touched on what it means for PLS Surveys Ltd to be recognised as the Best Independent Roofing & Cladding Consultancy 2026 – UK as part of this programme, as well as to receive our Excellence Award for Roof Condition Surveys 2026: “After more than 30 years in roofing and cladding, you might think an award wouldn’t mean that much anymore. Actually, it’s probably the opposite. When you look back, you realise how much work, experience, early mornings, long days, mistakes, and lessons have gone into getting you to this point.” He continued: “I certainly haven’t got here on my own either. My family and the people around me have been a big part of the journey and the growth of PLS Surveys. Looking back at where I started, on the tools over 30 years ago, to where PLS Surveys is today, winning two national awards is something I am extremely proud of. But I don’t see it as the end of the journey. If anything, it has given us even more motivation to keep learning, keep improving, and to see where we can take PLS Surveys next.” More on this independent roofing and cladding consultancy in the UK can be found at the link below. Contact: Philip Smith MMCRI / CIOB Company: PLS Surveys Ltd Web Address: https://plsroofingconsultants.com/
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