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At Robinson & Hall we offer a Building Survey inspection and report equivalent to a RICS Home Survey Level 3 with added information, estimated costs of repairs and future maintenance advice. This survey is most suited for large, complex or older buildings.

Our aim in inspecting and reporting on the building’s construction is to:

• Help you make a reasoned and informed decision when purchasing a property, or when planning for repairs, maintenance or upgrading the property
• Provide detailed advice on the property’s condition
• Describe the identifiable risk of potential or hidden defects
• Propose the most probable cause(s) of the defects based on the inspection, and
• Where practicable and agreed, provide an estimate of costs and likely timescale for identified repairs and necessary work.

Some recently found defects during our surveys include the following:

The photograph shows the roof space of a traditional house with a cut roof and corbelled gable chimney. The felt roof membrane had become brittle and failed, removing the second layer of defence to water ingress from the roof. Rectification of this issue would result in re-roofing at a considerable cost.

Our surveyor found that a self-set tree had taken root in the edge trim of a single ply roof membrane. A first in 40 plus years of surveying! The penetration through the roof covering resulted in leakage and the need for replacing the edge detail.

A typical commercial flat roof with central drainage channel with a build-up of silt where the outlet is blocked by debris. This has the potential to put flooding pressure on the roof covering joints with leakage into the building. There are also a number of deformed dome rooflights, likely from softening over time with UV and the sun’s heat having its effect. Recommendations were given for regular routine maintenance and replacement of rooflight covers compliant with current Building Regulation standards.

Residential roofs are similarly affected by lack of maintenance, and it was not intended to be a ‘green roof’. Apart from removal of blockage and programming regular inspections and cleaning, improvements to the outlet include debris guards are required.

If you need a pre-purchase survey or wish to understand the condition of your building, we would be pleased to hear from you and can provide a bespoke service to suit your requirements.

Please contact David Sawford or Stuart Brown to discuss your project further.