INDEPENDENT BUILDING DEFECT INVESTIGATIONS
Building Defect Surveys – Find the Cause, Not Just the Damage
Independent building defect surveys across Sunderland, County Durham, Newcastle and the North East. We investigate cracking, water ingress, roofing problems, masonry deterioration and other visible building defects to help identify the likely cause and appropriate next steps.
Independent Advice • Detailed Inspection • Clear Reports
WHAT CAN A BUILDING DEFECT SURVEY INVESTIGATE?
Buildings can develop defects for many different reasons. The visible damage is often only part of the problem. Our approach is to inspect the affected area alongside the surrounding building fabric, looking for evidence that helps identify the likely cause and whether further investigation may be required.
Cracking & Movement
Cracking to walls, masonry, openings and finishes, including assessment of visible crack patterns and potential causes.
Roof Defects & Water Ingress
Leaks, defective roof coverings, flashings, valleys, gutters and other potential sources of water penetration.
Brickwork & Masonry Defects
Deteriorated brickwork, failed pointing, spalling, damaged masonry and associated defects.
Render & External Finishes
Cracking, debonding, deterioration and moisture-related problems affecting render and external finishes.
Openings & Lintels
Cracking or defects around windows, doors, lintels and other openings within the building fabric.
Unexplained Building Defects
Investigation where visible damage or deterioration is present but the underlying cause isn't immediately apparent.
We investigate the evidence first rather than assuming the cause from the visible defect.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A BUILDING DEFECT SURVEY?
Our building defect surveys focus on the specific problem you are concerned about, while also considering the surrounding building fabric and anything that may be contributing to the defect.
01 — Initial Assessment
We discuss the defect, when it was first noticed, whether it has changed over time and any relevant history before beginning the inspection.
02 — Detailed Inspection
We inspect the affected area and relevant surrounding building fabric for visible defects, deterioration, cracking, moisture, workmanship issues and other evidence that may help explain the problem.
03 — Defect Investigation
We consider the pattern and characteristics of the defect alongside the property's construction, condition and other relevant observations to assess the likely cause.
04 — Findings & Recommendations
We explain our findings and provide clear, practical recommendations for the next steps. You will receive a written report documenting our observations and findings, supported by photographs where appropriate.
FOCUSED ON THE DEFECT — NOT A FULL BUILDING SURVEY
A Building Defect Survey is a targeted investigation of a specific defect or group of related defects. It is not a full condition survey of the entire property. Where the inspection identifies an issue outside the agreed scope, we will highlight it where appropriate and may recommend further investigation.
CONCERNED ABOUT A BUILDING DEFECT?
Cracking, recurring leaks or deteriorating brickwork? Tell us what you’ve noticed and where your property is located. We’ll discuss your concerns, confirm whether a Building Defect Survey is suitable and provide a quote.