The three main thatching materials are Combed Wheat Reed, Long Straw and Norfolk Reed. Not only are these materials applied differently, various features on the roof and local techniques will mean that application methods and material selection will be different according to the area of the country. Ideally your Thatcher should be local, or at least able to maintain these variations, they should know local conditions and construction methods.

Even if your property does not fall within the official listing of historic property it is suggested that you consult your local council conservation officer for a list of local Thatcher's and advice but do not solely rely on it. Make sure that you ascertain that the thatching firm is competent to carry out the work yourself.

Preferably they should be a member of one of the Thatching County Associations, Although it must be pointed out that Thatcher's cannot even agree to a truly national body most of these do have standards for members and some, Like the Rutland & Leicestershire have dispute procedures

When you get two or three Thatcher's to estimate, ask them for examples of thatching they have done similar to your thatched roof you can see, not just recently completed ones as even a poor thatched roof will look good for a short time. No legitimate Thatcher is going to object, all reputable ones would be delighted that you have taken the trouble.

 Make sure that you have a physically measurable specification in the estimate, not only will this provide further evidence of competence (see sample basic estimate) if there is a dispute, both sides have a physically measurable base line. Also see Specifications for more detail, your estimate may not follow these and a good reason may exist, ask why.

Unfortunately there are a few 'cowboys' among so called Thatcher's.  For example the term "Master Thatcher" is frequently used  but now does not necessarily  imply any expertise. There are cases of Thatcher's falsely claiming membership of various organisations and even false organisations. It is also essential to check your Thatcher has public liability insurance, the 'cowboy' invariably will not have any. It is your property at risk.

Would you accept an estimate "To do a garden" without knowing exactly what work was to be done, far too many accept "To thatch your roof in straw" for several thousand pounds, it is unfortunately a case of let the buyer beware if you do so.

You may well have to wait up to 2 years to have major work done, apart from unexpected cancellation or delay on a contract few thatching firms are going to be able start immediately unless of course two or three roofs are being thatched at the same time with consequent delays to yours. Thatching is also more competitive than you may think. Don't be panicked into accepting possible inferior work, temporary repairs will keep you dry if the worst happens. Despite today's 'immediate' society you will just have to go with the pace of our rural trade.