While you should always use a drip loop, that isn't the problem - the problem is the cable rubbing through on the roof, and water running down INSIDE the cable. A drip loop doesn't help that in the slightest, only water on the outside.

It's a VERY common problem with the poor quality of Sky installs, you should NEVER throw a cable over a roof (unless you clip it down every few tiles.) - and no decent installer would do so. To be fair, Sky's rules prevent them doing it properly, and I presume this is the 'official' Sky method?.

Is this still a problem with solid foam dialectric cables rather than air spaced as in CT100 ?

Yes, but less so - air spaced is basically a hose once it's damaged.

Well, I emailed the local Trading Standards office and made it clear that I wasn't making an official complaint but, at their discretion, they may like to add this installer to any "keep an eye on" lists that they may have.

They replied that they have done so and stated that, with the digital switchover coming up, "Trading Standards, over the next few months will closely monitor complaints about digital services and try to raise awareness. "

Bought a cheap statellite meter from Satcure (more for interest than anything else) so ordered some clips and a hole cover so have now finished the job

http://vwlowen.co.uk/freesat/freesat.htm

Thanks for all your advice and confirmation etc..

John.

Nice one!! It's amazing the difference a bit of pride can make.