The Future for Thatched Properties

Reason for this Article on the Future for Thatch 

The Thatch Advice Centre is concerned about the future for thatched properties.   Having put so much free time and effort into educating / helping a wide range of people about thatch and thatching, over the last 20 years or so, we always endeavour to be positive.  We have therefore avoided writing this article for some time.  It’s complicated.

Recent events, on top of the previously highlighted ones, meant we were seriously wondering how things will be in the future. This, then coupled with a recent meeting of thatchers from around the country, where things quickly went off topic by turning to the future of thatching, confirmed our concerns.  It was the final straw.

Our Understanding

From a very central point of view, we understand what is going on.

We have a passion for helping, educating, problem solving and putting our specialist associates in touch with those who need expert assistance.  The appreciative feedback is always welcomed.  Fortunately, this has put us in a good position to understand the thatch and thatching issues which have arisen over time, which are now increasingly difficult to assist with. We now feel it’s time to put all these growing concerns for the future out there.  The repetition of issues continually arising and causing difficulties to property owners, thatchers and others has been disturbing.

The Thatch Advice Centre team and supporters (whose input, knowledge and skills are hugely appreciated in assisting us and allowing the service to be provided for free) are thinking “Are thatched roofs sustainable moving forward? What does the future hold?”

We aim here to outline the situation, our concerns, responsibility and the individual issues before summarising them and looking at some ideas for the future and then concluding on all of these related topics.

Thank you, in anticipation that you also want to understand the situation as we see it, and for reading to the end.

The Thatch Situation

The situation, is based on us hearing from and communicating with everyone: – Farmers, thatchers, homeowners, those looking to buy and sell thatch, listed property organisations, fire service, thatchers, those wanting to train as thatchers, government bodies, journalists, fire safety product suppliers, estate agents, insurers, underwriters, and more.

Sadly, the circumstances for thatch properties, and those involved with them, are not improving, with no one taking responsibility for the changes which have occurred and the negative impact things are having on our thatch community.  There has been a lot of knee jerk reactions rather than any planning.  Communication is lacking from many quarters.  Not a good way to be going and definitely raises concerns for the future of thatch.

Concerns for the Future

Time to tell everyone what is going on (as we see it) and to try again to make those who are in a privileged position (with finances) start making appropriate decisions to improve things, to do the right thing.  It is no longer time for chat.  Everyone, needs the previously promised action, better communication and more…..  Recent events have also pushed our concerns about how thatch is viewed and supported to the forefront.

Apologies for the length of this article, but its covering evolving situations that we are seeing.  Time to get it all off our chest.  It is based on things which have arisen which are too many, too similar and too worrying to ignore.

Responsibility

Who is responsible for the future of our thatched properties?

Is it the home owners, the thatchers, the farmers, or another entity/organisation?  There are so many factors involved and associated issues arising.  These issues need to be understood properly, investigated and then addressed appropriately by someone/a group/those in charge.  If there isn’t anyone with overall responsibility, maybe it is time to appoint.

We need to mention these issues now, so that those in a position to do something can understand better what is really going on, as well as start to value and respect the thatch community.  Something has to be to improve the outlook for the future.

The Issues

Below are the issues that we believe need to be better understood.

• Thatching Materials – Overview, Straw, Water Reed and Listed Properties
• Thatchers (Master Thatchers)
• Councils and Regulations
• Thatch Maintenance
• Thatch Insurance
• Thatch Reporting
• Thatch Apathy

These topics are integrated and do not need to be responded to individually without understanding their impact on the other issues.  Previous fragmented attempts don’t seem to be achieving results.

Issues – Thatching Materials – Overview

Is the UK self sufficient enough to provide thatching materials for maintaining our thatched roofs?  Combed Wheat, Longstraw and Water Reed are the main materials used in the UK.

The majority of Water Reed used in this country is imported from abroad, and global issues have affected supply.   Some is harvested in the UK but only a small percentage of what is used.

Straw – both Combed Wheat and Longstraw – is grown mainly in some larger pockets of the UK as well as a few other small ones.  It is generally supplied by only a few companies.  Some thatchers do grow or source their own.  Modern varieties of wheat now have very short straw which is no good at all for thatching.  The older longer strawed varieties are needed.  There are not enough straw growers to cope with demand, especially when weather conditions affect growing and harvest.  In addition, the harvesting and producing uses a lot of labour, old machinery and techniques.

Thatchers used to help with harvests but nowadays it seems more profitable to buy their material and spend their time being paid for thatching roofs.  We wonder how many thatchers know how to harvest and produce the straw they are using?  It is a good way to understand material quality?  The making of spars and liggers is a similar question which we will just mention lightly here…  Many spars are also imported often ready twisted – how many thatchers know how to or can make a spar – some can’t even twist them!

Where is the sustainability for our thatching materials when growers, makers and suppliers retire or give up?   Where will the skills and knowledge go in the future, is it being passed on and if so who to?

Currently we have the skills, machinery and thatchers to just about manage, but the situation is not improving.  We are acutely aware of the decline in the trade, of those desperately trying to improve the material situation (including us) and those who are just feathering their own nest in the short term with no care for the future.

The limited number of suppliers in this country, who have done a great job in providing materials over the years, are also of concern.  If the few retire, leave the trade with no succession and handing on of knowledge, there will be a huge hole in the supply chain.

Longevity of materials is another area we are being contacted on more often.  Premature rotting of Water Reed roofs can be due to a variety of factors but white rot and application of materials are those seen most often.  Some Combed Wheat and Longstraw roofs with good materials, well applied, on a roof of good pitch in a good aspect are therefore giving previous longevity ideas a good shake up.

Issues – Thatching Materials – Straw

There is no apparent assistance in the growing and harvesting of thatching materials.  Why does DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) seem to be lacking in information and involvement?  Why is the straw seed not on the seed bank?  Farmers scrabbling around to get seed to grow thatching straw is surely not sustainable.  We don’t want to lose the valuable straw varieties used for thatching either but it is already happening.

PHD research (funded by DEFRA) is being done on Landrace seeds (cereals, vegetables and forage), which includes some of the old varieties used for thatching.  This is indeed useful and interesting.  Is it specific or timely enough to deal with the current issues with thatching straw seed?  We plan to update you on the research later.

Historic England have paid for research into machinery used for producing thatching straw and their recent workshop update was extremely useful.  There will soon be more to report on this important progress, so watch this space and our socials.

We do however, need to have sustainable, accessible and enough varieties of thatching straw seed to grow.  Relying on big growers to keep the seed and, in light of recent weather conditions affecting straw growing, concerns over availability is a huge issue.  Currently, the old machinery (with help and innovative ideas ongoing) is still doing its job.  However, moving forward developing a less labour-intensive process will be welcomed.  That is if the quality of the thatching straw is not compromised.  Some growers have already made some useful changes to their own machinery/processes in order to make things easier.

We have been involved in helping a few more growers get started, as have our Associates, but it is not centralised with any funded assistance, currently.   Why not incentivise farmers/thatchers to grow a product which has value and help a beleaguered thatching trade and in turn the property owners?  If you have to rent land to grow materials and barns etc to store machinery and the straw product, the costs are even more prohibitive.  Where is the incentive?  Is it even feasible anymore without support?

The straw situation needs to be rectified faster, based on the problems we encounter.

Issues – Thatching Materials – Water Reed

A lot of our Water Reed roofs are sustained with European and even Chinese Water Reeds.  Provenance often gives differing characteristics and the discerning thatcher will know which origin suits a roof best.  Bundles still need to be sorted by length and taper to be best applied.  Is this happening?

Water reed beds are no longer generally harvested throughout the UK to produce thatching material.   Are the majority of reed beds now only preserved for wildlife?  Are there some which could be utilised?  The price of all thatching materials has escalated over the last few years for a variety of reasons and it could make home production more financially viable.  Costs of imported material, seems to fluctuate more often due to world issues as well.

It is understood that in Scotland, there has been some support for the Water Reed harvesting, but it is appreciated that they also have a lot less thatched buildings than England.

We have had contact from those looking to diversify but, the regularity and quality of the cut is important.  Machinery, skills and labour availability are other issues.  Why can this not be centralised, sharing machinery (to save money and help each other) and sharing knowledge to also go cutting at the right time and producing some useful material?    If not, the Water Reed imports will continue.

Issues Thatching Materials – Listed Properties

Listed Properties have specific requirements on maintenance materials used, due to character and tradition of conservation areas etc. They need to be thatched per requirements.   “Like for like” everyone says but what does “like for like” mean?  Are the requirements clear enough? Historic England website on Approaches to Repair says “These will normally be the same as the original or parent material or where this is no longer available or appropriate, have compatible properties, both technically and aesthetically.”  This appears to be open to differing interpretation (and perhaps it should be for regional variation?) but may benefit from some clarity for homeowners and thatchers.  Changing a material requires Listed Building Consent, we understand.

Is consent really happening and consistent across the country?  Does the listing even say what material properties are thatched in and/or do the councils know? From what we have heard, Historic England’s information seems to often be “lacking in detail on roof material”.  Is it necessary?  Contacting councils for such information can also be tricky and even costly.  Do they even have the information on what material is on the roof?  It does, however, come down to the local council their information held, on what is allowed and interpretation of  requirements.  Are their requirements enforced, if abused?

Some Listed properties have had Water Reed applied to the rear and the “correct” Combed Wheat Reed on the front, where it is seen.  This is only half the same material variety “like for like” so next time it is rethatched …..  what is done?  Water Reed may be applied to give the more rounded look of Combed Wheat but it is not the same material.  What is happening, is it natural evolution or the thin edge of the wedge.

Combed Wheat is being applied with a few ears turned around to look like Longstraw (are Conservation Officers not knowledgeable enough to know the difference? or does no-one check?).   This, amongst other things, seems to be a postcode lottery on enforcement and/or even thatchers doing the right thing.  Councils perhaps don’t have the staff, knowledge or skills to check authenticity and so things just change.  We are hearing about more and more of these unregulated changes.  Who checks or enforces and what is the cost of enforcement?  Once it is thatched in one material, it is costly if it has to be rectified so, in our experience is usually left.  Who will read the conservation/listed building notes in the future and put it back like it was?  Who reads the previous notes now?  Is there any plan for dealing with thatch in the future?  What is the future for our traditional materials, especially the distinct Longstraw properties which are so important to the aesthetics of their areas.

Lack of availability of materials is often mentioned as the reason for listed building consent applications for change of material.  Is it this or is it a lack of traditional thatchers to do the work appropriately as well?  Some thatchers can only work with Water Reed.  Perhaps these changes are not availability at all but a financial consideration due to the thatchers wanting to use a more easily acquired, applied and often therefore more profitable solution.   Or are homeowners, understandably, wanting to save money?  Often a different material is used which is better priced, more available or perceived to last longer.

The sadness of a dedicated homeowner who has done the right material, style and maintenance on their property, only to have a heavy handed official from the council refuse them the addition of a temporary thatch finial.  A little bit of individually for a proud owner who has done the right thing we feel.   In another area, homeowners of listed properties seem to get very different responses.   Such stories have led to people just getting on with rethatching, often down to timbers (is a fire resisting barrier per regs required?) and often with a different material. The postcode lottery on listed property responses from authorities continues.

Water Reed is generally quicker than the straw to apply and so financially can be more profitable, so thatchers are happy to change material on a non-listed property.  But what if it is in a conservation area (LBC required) and changes the look of the property, or does it not matter?  Another question on where is this all going?  Some listed thatches are in Water Reed areas and have always been maintained with this material, but most of it is not UK sourced any more.

Are these material changes slowly eroding away our traditional heritage materials, skills to apply and potentially the character and lure of our villages to purchasers and tourists?  Many tourists are drawn to our historic buildings and the thatched ones make up a large proportion of the draw, due to their aesthetics, history and country cottage chocolate box appeal.

Are contraventions and changes in roofing materials what the government and country want?  Do they understand the implications or even care?

Issues -Thatchers (Master Thatchers)

Nowadays, all thatchers call themselves a Master Thatcher and there is no overall governing body.  It can be misleading for the public and denotes no real qualification.  Who knows how many thatchers there are in the country?  A lot have left the trade for a variety of reasons and the numbers of new recruits is not seemingly filling the gap.

A shortage of thatchers (following a couple years of harvest issues and material shortages) means waiting times have increased to get maintenance done.  This is having a knock-on effect on sales, insurance and even mortgages, let alone the worry of roofs leaking during wet winters!

There are paid for membership organisations which vary in their value and agendas.  Some are looking more to the future than others.   Most thatchers are, we understand, independent and they similarly have variable responses to the issues involving thatch.  Being unregulated, it appears that thatchers are therefore variable in knowledge, ability and ethics.  Often, pretty much, a law unto themselves.

It therefore appears that some thatchers are aware of situations, diligent and even working to improve the future for thatching and care of our thatched buildings, while others have a different agenda.  This makes things difficult for homeowners.

The cost of employing a thatcher is now a huge consideration for those maintaining our thatched properties.  With no overall governing body, it is an interesting situation that we are often contacted about.  As with all trades, there are good and not so good thatchers about.  In our experience, membership of thatched organisations is not giving homeowners enough backup, should it be needed.

So, when employing a thatcher getting things in writing, checking insurance, scaffolding and payment terms is recommended, as a priority.  Sadly, we have seen problems where this information is lacking.

Master Thatcher Associations are doing their best in trying to preserve regional variation in thatching styles and techniques but with the material points (especially on listed buildings) mentioned above and others, to be mentioned below, is it becoming harder?  Some are doing a great job, but some areas don’t even have an Association covering their location.  Perhaps because they are unpaid and difficult roles which no-one wants to take on. Or perhaps thatching businesses can be promoted more easily via the internet eg social media (this raises the questions we receive about validity of information on-line). Where is it going?  Self regulation is up for discussion?

The loss of the previous apprenticeship (Knuston Hall) and feeling by many thatchers that the current NVQ is not producing enough competency, led to a brilliant attempt to get a true government funded apprenticeship back up and running.  Training to be appropriate and sustainable for the future.

Excellent and passionate thatchers from across the country have been scuppered at the final hurdle (when they had secured the course content and assessment criteria, college to hold the course and store materials and roofs, assessment organisation, thatching trainers and assessors ready to be inaugurated in their roles and excellent funding).

Ifate was changed recently, by the current Government, to Skills England.  The then proposed amendments to the assessments has caused consternation in the whole construction industry with concerns over the dumming down of the end point assessments.  If not appropriately assessed on ability it could get to the stage that those qualifying will not be able to do the work appropriately “flooding the market with inept unsuitably assessed construction workers will be damaging to the trades, the market and for those living in those properties” we have been told.

To that end, we understand that 5 apprenticeships are being trialled with the new system and then there are the other 700….  Thatching would, apparently, be on the list after that as a nearly, but not quite, completed/started apprenticeship.  These timescales are deemed too far ahead to remedy the severity of the thatching skills shortage situation.  This situation is demoralising and worrying after all the time and effort so far, especially as more competent thatchers are needed now.

The apprenticeship has therefore hit a huge stumbling block.  Plans need to be made to secure the passing down of skills and knowledge of correct thatching techniques before it is too late.  We know one of Master Thatchers Association who have therefore decided to pick up the training issue in their area themselves, which is commendable but it won’t fix what is a national problem.

A clear training path and qualifications with standards and related and appropriate assessment should make a difference.  Perhaps then qualified thatchers could be listed somewhere and, this would give more confidence in thatchers abilities.  In the meantime, what about the old boys who have been thatching for years?  Maybe they could just be assessed, but by whom?  General opinion is that it needs to be a properly capable and proven peer group, in our opinion.

We have far too many enquiries and calls about bad thatching work compared to 10 years ago.  Work which is proven not fit for purpose and work which will not last.   Issues such as:- materials fixed too tightly, fixings too close to the surface, ridges applied too loosely with inappropriate fixings… basic fundamentals of thatching and detrimental to the roof condition which should not be happening.  The term Master Thatcher then means nothing.

With these issues in mind, some thatchers we have spoken to are looking at options.  The thatching trade is sadly, as previous mentioned, fragmented.  We know we are the only ones who do our best to communicate with all thatchers, no hidden agenda, as we feel it is very important to include everyone.  Perhaps if thatchers contact us with their details eg email and name, we can make sure we maximise our list for communication purposes.  All are welcome.

Issues – Councils and Regulations

Councils, Conservation/Listed Building Departments and Regulations are raising eyebrows?

Are the building regulations for thatch checked, reviewed, fit for purpose, understood correctly by councils, architects, builders and the wider thatching community?  Are the product tests undertaken to meet the building regulations understood?  Are the tests right and appropriate for applications?  Will future changes allow for thatched roofs?

Building regulations are interesting when it comes to thatch.

The Dorset Model is well known.  It was created by Dorset Council many years ago, originally for their county requirements, and now seems to have been adopted countrywide.  This model has changed many times over the years (in our experience and also with our input) to tick the building regulation boxes.  Has it ticked the “best for the thatched building box?” Does it need to be applied to all thatched buildings or just those it was originally designed for?  Is it now being applied more loosely depending on the project?  Are there other options?  What is the plan for the future?

Regulations for electrics in new build thatch…  Should there be any or do we just leave that to the common sense of the electrician or sensible stipulation set by the insurers who understand the risks and so have policy endorsements for safety? Or is it a builders’ or council responsibility?

Thatch is naturally insulating but remember it also needs to be ventilated to maximise its lifespan. The last thing you want is condensation/damp.

Chimney height is a hot topic, for solid fuel burning, but where did the 1.8m come from? who knows? Various ideas have been mentioned/discussed but none are deemed definitive.  It is obvious that the taller the chimney the less chance of any ejected embers falling on the thatch from solid fuel burning, but there are other ways to reduced fire risk as well.

Education on how to reduce the risks of sparks and embers exiting a chimney, along with improved design of woodburners have made a good difference in safety but still so many people are contacting us regarding just increasing the height of chimneys.  Listed thatch requires LBC to change the height but checks on integrity of the stack etc needs to be done before that.   It’s also not about just sticking on a tall pot – that has increased safety issues if not done appropriately.

Removing 25% of a roof or more and the need to bring it up to current building regulations is another issue which is seemingly often ignored by councils, thatchers and homeowners.  Then, occasionally, we hear of someone who has been hauled over the coals for not meeting requirements.   Why can’t there be clear information so everyone in the country knows what to do?  If not why can’t each council have some clear information?

When different councils around the country have different responses to the same questions regarding building regulations it makes us wonder why?  Are some better informed than others? Are some highly up to date on regulations? Are some not so knowledgeable about thatch? Do some just not want to get involved with thatch and pass the buck back to the architect or builder?  That’s how it appears to many people.

Who controls Council and Conservation/Listed Building Department responses on thatch?  Recently, a local thatched property demolished with no permission has had enforcement applied and the owner has now got to replace it as it before… but is that what would happen in another area?

Sadly, many people with appropriate thatch knowledge of these Council and regulation related issues are no longer available.  Perhaps it’s time to look to the future and update things (after discussion with everyone who has useful understanding or input) so that new thatched buildings and maintenance of thatch can give value for money and better roof longevity whilst meeting the regulations.

Issues – Thatch Maintenance

Maintaining thatched properties needs to be done appropriately.  Maximising longevity of the roof is important to the owners, due to costs involved, so good materials well applied are expected.  Is this happening?

Listed and Conservation areas require roofs maintained in the right material and traditional style so areas retain their character and aesthetic etc.  Changes would require consent.

Lack of thatchers is causing longer and longer waiting lists and more roofs covered with tarpaulins seems to be the norm.  Thatched properties awaiting maintenance can bring issues if being sold/purchased (mortgages) and also with insurance cover.

Material availability, skills to produce them and apply to the roofs are all under scrutiny from a variety of sources.  Unfortunately, we see too many issues which should not be happening.  Just because someone says they are a Master Thatcher with a logo doesn’t guarantee appropriate work.  We have always suggested that prospective customers contact any potential thatchers’ previous customers (a good thatcher won’t mind) to see how their project went and how well a roof has performed over time.  Don’t go on a pretty newly thatched picture on line but a proven roof, in the flesh, a few years down the line, well maintained.

That being said, thatching organisations are only as good as those running them.  Some regional organisations do a brilliant job of saving local techniques and styles in maintaining thatched properties in their area.  They also monitor their members’ work for customers peace of mind.  Again, perhaps a postcode lottery as not all areas are covered. Internet and websites allow for all manner of information but please beware.  It is not always as it appears and AI can’t thatch – yet!

Historic England and the Conservation Departments set standards but they need to support the people who are maintaining our heritage in trying to meet those standards.  It now seems that the maintenance of historic thatched properties is becoming much harder.  These properties are sadly becoming less desirable, from what we hear.  We have had far more enquiries regarding tiling of thatched properties (both listed and non-listed) due to the concerns over cost and waiting times etc for thatching works due to material and thatcher shortages.  Roof condition can also affect insurance cover.

Maintenance and costs could be improved in various ways.  However, lack of coherence, inclusion and the postcode lottery means that it appears to be a shambolic situation.  For example, having varying responses from Councils and thatchers to the same question.  Who sets the ‘rules’ or are they individually set by the variety of personnel in charge with, in our experience, varying knowledge and abilities in what they are talking about.  Skill shortages abound.

The VAT charged on listed thatched property maintenance used to be 5% but now is 20%.   Our friends at LPOC have highlighted this issue for all listed properties to Government over the years, but currently to no avail. To maintain the properties in the old materials is not a cheap or easy option.  Concerns again are raised on the listed properties becoming less desirable due to the rising cost of maintenance.  Or is it all thatched properties?

Insuring thatch is another issue on which we wish we were given a £1 for every enquiry!  Thatch Insurance is a hot topic.

We have many specialist thatch insurers who are doing their best to understand and mitigate the risks associated with thatched property cover.  Fire statistics, we know have been misrepresented in the past.  It is hoped that the better data being collected by HE (fed with information from ourselves, our associates and others)  is providing a clearer and less pessimistic picture.

We have been asked if the insurance premiums are fair/correct and this we cannot answer.    The more we understand and educate those living/working under thatch on how to mitigate risk and lower the claims, the better.  Recent flooding has not helped but, luckily, properties don’t flood due to their thatched roof, just location.

Listed thatch insurance costs are often higher due to rebuild valuations etc and this is something which the powers that be should understand and maybe look at ways to improve the situation?  This is an issue for all listed and non-standard built properties as well as thatch.

So many people have contacted us about insurance providers.  For example, insurers leaving the market, rising costs and cover issues.  Making the news is one thing but, we again, need action.  Some insurers are definitely trying hard and are making good helpful progress which is so heartening, amongst the recent negativity.  Ireland is struggling to find thatch insurers, full stop.

 Issues Thatch Reporting

More reporting on some of these thatch issues has been noticed recently.  Anyone, highlighting thatch related issues and getting them discussed must be beneficial in the long run.

Journalists and others reporting on thatch situations have, however, been brought to our attention and not always in a positive way.  Some have been fed information from those with their own agenda, or it looks like they have trawled the internet to get information but not understood what has changed or what is questionable.  This is understandable, but when very old statistics, out of date and incorrect information is circulated, it is hugely disappointing.  It can also cause unnecessary knock on issues.  Other journalists have done a good job for their readers, on summarising a difficult thatch topic well.

Social media also reports on a variety of thatch topics.  Once again, the fake and old information is seen raising its head.  It’s frustrating and a waste of our precious time trying to correct/explain the facts and up to date information repeatedly.

This is also frustrating that councils don’t seem to be on the same page.  Some are up to date and proactive which is heartening.  Perhaps, with others, it is due to inexperience or what they have ‘read’ on line or in periodicals or magazines or different regional priorities.  Some reporting, on thatch issues, has highlighted a postcode lottery of responses, from listed property chimney raising to change of material or style, the reporting mentioned variable replies.

Fire Service data is another example.  Ticking the box for thatch and a box for a fire e.g. tumble drier fire has (hopefully in the past) made for inflated numbers of “thatch fires” by misinterpretation of data.  As previously mentioned, the data we have recently been reporting on only includes those fires involving the roof.  It is more meaningful in the scheme of looking at causes and reducing the fire risk.  Hopefully having a knock on effect on insurance.  We pass all thatch fires we are notified about on to be collated.  Happy to keep being the channel and pass fire information on appropriately.  This reporting should therefore be helping in a positive way.

Some Fire Services are definitely more proactive on promoting and reporting on thatch fire safety advice than others.  Surely an integrated approach, pooling resources makes sense with regard to education and fire fighting of thatch.  Some Services have started this, which is a great improvement.  Reducing thatch fire numbers has been our future plan for many years and it is happening.  There is always room for improvement #workingtogether (our motto).

We have only ever reported proven facts and dealt with any anomalies accordingly.  It is a shame that others have copied our work (sometimes lack of knowledge means they rewrite our words and make a nonsense of it too!!) which although amusing, it is worrying.  Rubbish reporting is happening in a variety of places and creating further unnecessary confusion.

What is welcomed is the strong, appropriate, relevant and accurate reporting regarding thatch issues and thatch fires.  Surely, any plans for the future of thatch must be based on well reported information.

Issues – Thatch Apathy

Questions and concerns over the future for thatched properties have been verbalised by many but what has really been done, and who is in a position to do anything?  It seems that no one in authority with any funding does enough, if anything, is it apathy?  Or is it low priority for funding or lack of funds?  If anything is done is it just too slow or is it lack of concern.  Apathy from sections of the trade may be due to being busy with plenty of work and no reason to be worrying about the future… or should they…

We are putting pen to paper so that perhaps these situations can be addressed and given a higher priority.  If there is no one to address these issues, then someone needs to be appointed, and soon.

From our side it seems that there is no apathy from a lot of hard-working enthusiasts who are doing their best in their own unpaid time to make a difference but, like us, lack of an overall responsible entity to take it to conclusion, is hampering any progress.

Summary of The Issues for the Future

The issues identified are complex and integrated.  Below, we try to summarise them for ease and clarification.

Thatching Materials 

From growing to harvesting and producing there are issues which are causing concerns for straw (Combed Wheat and Longstraw) production in the UK.  To remain sustainable for the future, more growers, exchange of skills and ideas are needed, to secure straw variety survival and improve quality and quantity produced.  DEFRA looking at this positively and other assistance is required as a priority.  It is serious.

Water Reed supplied from Europe and beyond can be affected by worldwide issues.  Lack of utilising UK Water Reed beds is often tricky due to conservation requirements eg. not allowing regular enough cutting to produce a good enough product, machinery and skills availability.

Issues of the future for material supplies need addressing imminently.

Listed Properties requirement for specific materials needs them to be available as well as those with the skills to apply them appropriately at a price which is affordable.  As a  tourism draw, what is the future for them and who will want to own them?  Will they fall into disrepair?

Master Thatchers

An unregulated craft with no overall governing body does not necessarily need regulation but needs to pull together.   Appropriate training, proper organised self-governance with an agenda for the future of thatch, including responsibility for those trading and accountability to give homeowners trust in thatchers’ ability to do the work correctly, would be a huge improvement.  It is important for thatchers to be able to apply the correct materials and that they last.  The shortage of thatchers needs to be addressed as a priority due to waiting lists and the potential for traditional skills and knowledge being lost.  A fragmented trade is currently not helpful.

Councils and Regulations

Post code lottery of responses and ability to get answers and information in a cost effective and timely manner are issues.  Are things up to date and fit for purpose?  The application of enforcement and responses across the country is variable so it’s tricky.  A review of the existing situation, involving those with knowledge of both regulations and thatch, is a great plan, and we believe necessary for clarity.

Fire, insulation, electrics, solid fuel burning and rethatching of listed properties are the main areas on which we understand the situations are occurring.

Thatch Maintenance

Costs involved mean that everyone wants thatched roof maintenance to be done well and correctly to maximise roof longevity, whilst also meeting any requirements for regulation and conservation.  Waiting times due to thatcher and material shortages have a big effect on this as well as thatchers and Councils responses, abilities and knowledge.

Thatch Insurance

Changes to cover and losses of insurers/underwriters, along with high rebuild valuations and fire statistics are having an impact.  There are still good insurers about but homeowners, especially of listed properties, are finding costs are becoming concerning, often due to rebuild valuations.  We continually point thatched property owners to our Thatch Directory of specialist thatch insurers who can assist in providing quotations, and offer advice on best practice.

Thatch Reporting

Reporting on thatch needs to come from a good source and be accurate.  There is good reporting of issues and also incorrect reporting on a variety of platforms.  Inaccuracies are frustrating for all of us who have worked hard over many years to improve education and information.  However, any reporting highlighting the issues can be beneficial, especially if it results in appropriate actions.

Thatch Apathy

Those thatch enthusiasts, like us, have been far from apathetic.  However, it feels like there is an apathy at a higher level or from those who are perceived to be being doing something.  Many of the thatch related issues which need addressing remain a problem.  There is a need to safeguard the future for thatched roofs.

The Future – Ideas

As ever, we are looking for solutions and a positive way forward for the future of thatch.  However, it is not our job and resolution is becoming urgent.

Taking individual issues without understanding the whole picture and how things are intertwined is also unlikely to be as beneficial or sustainable in the long term.

Here are some positive ideas:-

• Perhaps we should all prepare a letter and send to our MPs? Getting Government to understand/get the topics we have mentioned debated in Parliament?  This process has already started which we think is positive.  A united front will have more strength in numbers, from property owners, thatchers and farmers and anyone else involved making waves.
• We feel it’s also time the thatching trade has a proper all-inclusive get together.  Either In person, on line or mixture of both?  Let’s get these topics discussed.  If the result is a united front to inform and pass the buck back to the MPs or others, then perhaps that’s a plan.  It has to be inclusive, not exclusive, as many excellent thatchers are independent, not on socials, internet or in one of the various membership groups.  We can update our list as previously mentioned and are happy to continue to communicate with all thatchers.
• DEFRA or similar, needs to be more positively involved and appreciate the importance of farmers growing the old varieties of wheat for thatching as an essential, viable and profitable product.  Perhaps chasing MPs can facilitate this?
• Historic England may be in a position to do something here.  Sadly, like many, they seem to be spread too thinly now.
• Financial help in the form of Grants or VAT relief would be helpful for Listed Thatch.  It would be returning to a previous better time.
• Research needs to follow up action in a timely manner.  Funding is needed.

Any other sensible ideas on how to kick start an improvement on these important issues are welcomed.  Please remember, we give our time freely and its not infinite.  We realise progress is needed and its hugely important.

We want all of us to work together (our motto) on moving forward to deal with these issues.   Everyone relevant needs to be included and involved so situations can be properly understood, wholly addressed and fully resolved.

Let’s hope this article has concentrated minds, clarified things from our point of view and has given everyone something to think about.  We strive for positive outcomes, with ways to improve things being planned and implemented for the future of our thatched properties and trade.

The Future of Thatch – Conclusion

Whilst it saddens us to be writing this, it is also quite liberating to be able to list the issues as we see them and which we know people are struggling with, along with positively looking at ideas for moving forward.

The future for thatched properties and all the associated issues needs to be reviewed, properly understood and acted upon sooner rather than later.  Many have strived in particular areas but banging of heads against a brick wall has caused frustration and now there are now too many related thatching issues to be ignored.

We want people to still enjoy owning, maintaining and living in our lovely thatched buildings and not be in the position of increasing negatively we now see.  Enough skilled thatchers are needed to provide competition, along with the ability to acquire and apply quality materials appropriately so that roofing styles, traditions and longevity remain.  How about some clarity for listed and non-listed thatch buildings for consents, changes, building regulation and enforcements, rather than the current confusion, delays and postcode lottery of responses?

The issues of material production, shortages, skills, knowledge and education is real.

Thatchers dwindling numbers, availability and ability are of high concern along with it being an unregulated craft.  Over regulation won’t work or be enforceable, we believe.  Some sensible acknowledgement and assistance to create a better structure might lead to a less fragmented and more proficient thatching trade.

What will happen to our listed thatch buildings and the associated large tourism industry, as well as our history and traditions if things don’t improve?  Is there recognition of the value that our thatched properties and heritage provide to the country both in accommodation, character, the visitor appeal and the contribution to the economy?

Where will the skills for material production and application to the roofs be when the older generations give up/retire?  Who will take up the mantle from these people?  There are grave concerns.

We need to stand together for the future of thatch.  Funding and help needs to be found from those with the influence, position and finances to do so.  Help is needed from the roots up for all thatched properties, new, old, listed and even semi-derelict.  Even Ireland offer help to their thatched property owners more than we do.  This situation is real.

Appropriate assistance is needed before it is too late, before important skills are lost and thatched properties are no longer considered an asset but a liability.

Hoping that one issue sorted will have a positive effect on other areas of concern and be a step in the right direction, e.g. improving the straw shortage situation would help with waiting times for thatchers, listed property maintenance, insurance issues of properties in disrepair….

What direction is the future of thatching looking like?  Is it with materials changed to cheaper imports and lost traditional characteristics and non listed thatch changed to another roofing material?  We hope not.

Resolution of the issues in thatching as we see them – even with our and others efforts to improve them – are moving too slowly.  The dire situation is becoming worse.  Thatching feels somewhat out of control and lower on Councils’, Historic England and Government agendas than people want and need.

Our ideas for helping with these issues can be taken up or ignored, we hope the former.

Organisations need to step up, do the right thing to sort out the issues under their remit quickly and appropriately.  Information also needs to be consistent and clear.

Hoping that our extensive article will give everyone the opportunity to understand better what has been happening from our point of view, and to join the growing group of people asking if the future of thatch is sustainable?

We strongly believe it can be, but it needs a proper coordinated plan, broken down into manageable chunks and managed by those with knowledge, understanding and funds to do it right.  Fingers crossed.

Useful links:-

https://www.eamta.co.uk/about-thatch/long-straw/

Campaign for Owners

https://www.thatchdirectory.co.uk/search_results.asp?tradeid=Insurance&tradearea=national&x=12&y=9

https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/technical-advice/buildings/thatching-advice/

https://historicengland.org.uk/research/results/reports/30-2023

https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/technical-advice/buildings/building-materials-for-historic-buildings/thatching-materials/#Production