What is a hatch that provides access to the roof from the interior of a building known as?

A hatch that provides access to the roof from the interior of a building is known as a scuttle. This serves as a critical access point, allowing maintenance personnel or roofing contractors to reach the rooftop safely for inspections, repairs, or service work. The design of a scuttle is typically compact, providing a more efficient way to connect the building's interior with the roof compared to larger access openings.

In roofing terminology, it is important to distinguish between a scuttle and other terms like access panels which may be used in walls or ceilings but do not specifically facilitate roof access. Similarly, a skimmer typically refers to a device used for removing debris from water surfaces, and a vent is primarily focused on airflow and exhaust in a building, rather than providing direct access to the roof. Understanding these definitions is crucial in the roofing profession to ensure effective communication and clarity in the work being performed.