The thatched cottage dream or disaster

Master Thatcher, Chris Dodson untangles the myths from the reality to help you make your choice in the property market.

- Chris Dodson

With the advent of Covid, home working is very much now in focus, with many being offered flexible working, only having to go into the office a few days a week. This has opened up the housing market and many locations up to those who had limited options. Since the first lockdown, the countryside has looked far more attractive to many, with fresh air and space, plus working from home far easier an option.

We are all guilty of it, wistfully scrolling through Rightmove, searching for that ideal house. Then one appears, large beautiful garden, roses over the gateway, it is thatched. The romantic vision is complete! It is very important though to do your home work to ensure your dream isn't a nightmare.

Thatch has a lot of myths about it. Having been thatching for 24 years full time, if I'd have a pound for every time I'd heard one of the following, I would be well retired by now... 'They catch fire so easily', "They only last 10 years and then need re-thatching', 'You can't do anything with listed properties', the list is endless. These myths need dispelling.

To most people thatch is thatch, regardless of colour or condition of the roof. Unless it is a a virtually brand new roof, most people believe that work will be needed immediately, which is often not the case.

ALWAYS SPEAK TO A THATCHER FIRST

If you've seen the house' and have made an offer, the first port of call must be to speak to a thatcher. Some will go with the thatcher the current owner has used, others a completely new thatcher. There is a danger that some owners will have work completed cheaply to give a fresh yellow veneer in order to help sell the house, so having a thatcher of your choice is often a good idea.