6. Building Defects Flashcards
What is an inherent defect?
In the design that has always been there.
What is a latent defect?
Not have been discovered by a reasonably thorough inspection.
What occurs after a new building is completed? Why?
Undertake a snagging process - the property is inspected against the construction plans to check that it has been finished correctly and that the construction is of sufficient quality to ensure the building operates as designed. Process is carried out by a contractor under warranty.
What 4 steps sould you take if you identify any building defects during an inspection?
- Take photos
- Try to establish the cause
- Inform your client of your investigations
- Recommended advice from a building surveyor
What 3 types of issues/defects should you look out for on inspection?
a. Movement – Cracking
b. Water - Damp
c. Defective building materials
Relating to movement, what is the difference between subsidence and heave?
Subsidence: vertical downward movement of a bulding foundation caused by the loss of support.
Heave: expansion of ground beneath part of a building. Could be caused by tree removal.
Relating to movement, what are the different types of cracking?
Horizontal: in brickwork, may indicate cavity wall tie failure in a brick wall
Shrinkage: Occurs in plasterwork during the drying out process
What are the types of damp?
- Wet rot - Damp and timber decay
- Dry rot - Fungal attack
- Rising damp - usually around 1.5m above ground level
- Condensation - Lack of ventilation
Why is damp an issue?
Deteriorates buildings, can also have impact on human health.
What are common period property defects? (residential/office/retail)
Dry rot (fungal spread)
wet rot (water + timber)
water ingress (door and window openings)
What are common modern industrial property defects?
Cut edge corrosion
roof leaks around roof lights
What are common modern office property defects?
Water damage from burst pipes
Efflorecence
