Slate roof with no felt

[Fleeg]

When checking in the loft of a house I was considering buying, I noticed that the slate roof is laid directly onto the wooden battens. There is no roofing felt or solid boards used. Can anyone give me a few pointers as to whether this might cause me any problems further down the road?

I couldn't see any evidence of water ingress and after a few searches on here and google it sounds like felt isn't strictly necessary but is advised? I couldn't find anything definitive.

Many thanks for any help

 

[Fleeg]

Some further info in case it helps:

The house is a 1930's (ish) semi.

 

[datarebal]

This is not uncommon and if the roof is in good shape really no big deal.
Obviously it's nice to have a decent underlay .
As it's a 1930 building i'd make sure it's roof is natural slate and not asbestos slate, which is a problem... post a photo let's have a look...

 

[Fleeg]

Sadly I wouldn't be able to easily get a photo. Thankyou for setting my mind at rest about the underlay question. If I actually buy the place I'll get the Asbestos question checked.

Are there any remedial works I should consider to a roof like this one?

Thanks again for the help so far

 

[noseall]

the only real downside is if you wish to use the loft as light storage.

posh linen sheets would be a no-no as they would be filthy in no time.

tarred building paper could be tacked to the rafter underside but i don't personally condone this.