Building Pathology
Investigating the cause and identifying the extent of building defects,
saving money and preventing further decay with remedial action
Building defects are aspects of a building that have failed. Defect diagnosis, also known as Building Pathology, is a cost-effective way of understanding how the materials and structure of a property are interacting with its environment. Thorough investigation can determine the cause of a problem, whether it’s serious and the best way to fix it. Unlike a Building Survey, a defect report focuses on a specific issue or concern.
Typical issues requiring assessment include:
- Penetrating damp, rising damp, condensation and leaks
- Cracking, subsidence, heave and bungaroosh
- Defective roofs, chimney stacks and timber decay
- Corrosion, mould growth and infestation
- Thermal performance, air tightness and cold bridges
- Downpipe, gutter and drainage problems
- Invasive tree roots
When to appoint a Chartered Surveyor
Defects may be a natural consequence of wear and tear. Or they may be due to poor design, deficient materials or shoddy workmanship during construction. Faults can also arise from improper use, repairs and alterations or as a result of environmental factors. Whereas patent defects are easily detected by reasonable inspection, it may be years before latent defects become apparent.
A professional surveyor’s report can be invaluable in the following situations:
- Pre-purchase - when a property viewing, mortgage valuation, environmental search or HomeBuyer Report uncovers an issue which needs further investigation.
- Existing homeowners – when there are concerns over a recurring problem or failed repair. Or advice is needed before embarking on a big project, such as a conversion or extension.
- Maintenance plans – when a Managing Agent is drafting a 5 or 10 year plan and needs to set aside leaseholder funds for repairs.
- Pre-lease – when a commercial landlord wants to investigate an issue raised by a prospective tenant to ease their concern and ensure a fair negotiation.
- Legal disputes – when establishing liability for dilapidations or deciding whether a legal dispute between a landlord and tenant, client and contractor, or two neighbours should be pursued.
What defect diagnosis entails
The materials and components that make up a building each have their own characteristics, which can suffer failure. An experienced surveyor can identify, investigate and determine the true nature of any defect.
Our involvement begins with a detailed inspection, together with desk study to collate background information. A monitoring period may follow before we issue a formal report, recommending the most appropriate course of action and estimating the cost of remedial works. For complex repairs, we can provide a Specification of Works, act as Contract Administrator and also supervise the works.
Early and accurate diagnosis of a defect and advice on how to rectify it will prevent further damage to your property, saving you money in the long run.
At OA Surveyors, we understand buildings and regularly carry out inspections. We’re skilled at pinpointing the exact cause of defects. Our reports offer clear advice for remedial action and highlight any risks. Regulated by RICS, our Chartered Surveyors offer an excellent standard of service and provide clients with peace of mind.
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"OA are highly skilled at recognising building defects, assessing the cause and providing us with their recommendations and any associated costs. "
— A Austin, Managing Director, Austin Rees
