This strutting beam originally braced by the chimney with rafters attached had rotted from a roof leak that hadn’t been addressed, probably since the house was built, approximately thirty years ago.
Beam not even supporting rafters
Detecting the leak initially involved removal of the tiles to check for breaks in the spillways or excessive debris impeding water flow, but all appeared OK
A closer look at the lead flashing indicated a possible leak source at the join and this was tested over a period by application of a waterproofing agent and further monitoring.
Smartform flexible flashing installed
Finally a solution to the problem
It’s lucky white ants didn’t settle in as they are attracted to damp timber.
Once this was sorted we replaced some broken tiles, cleaned the roof and repointed it.