Inspection Flashcards
Briefly explain the construction of a recent building you have inspected?
Brick build, cavity wall
What is the size of a brick?
215 x 102.5 x 65
What is the size of a block?
440 x 100 x 215
How would you ensure safe working at height / on a site with working machinery?
RA
RAMS
Working from height permit
Hot works permit
Identified as high risk in the RA / RAMS – then a permit to work will be required
Check on HSE website if unsure
What is the British council for offices?
Established in 1990 BCO is Britains leading forum for the discussions and debate of issues affecting the office sector
When was the British council for offices guidance last updated?
BCO Specification for offices 2019
Where does surface water drain into?
Storm drain, stream, river, soakway
Where does foul water drain into?
Sewage -> local sewage treatment plant
What was the latest guidance RICS published about Japanese Knotweed?
Japanese knotweed and residential property, 2022 Guidance Note
What does RICS say about Japanese knotweed?
Only properly licenced organisations may remove
It needs to be controlled or removed
It needs to be reported
Can be excavated or removed through chemicals
Can impact value
How can Japanese Knotweed impact upon value?
Impact in the market prior to remediation
Restrictions on use of the property
Impact during remediation
Impact of infestation on present and adjoining land
Post remediation impact on future salability
—-oo
Lenders may refuse loans
Expensive to eradicate
Can you tell me about RICS guidance on contamination or environmental risk?
RICS environmental risks and global real estate, 2018 guidance note
What is the general principle relating to contamination?
The ‘polluter pays’ principle
Otherwise, landowner
What signs would indicate that a site is contaminated?
Previous land use
Leaks and spills from tanks and pipes
Contaminated surface run off and flooding
Disposal of waste materials
Demolition of buildings containing hazardous substances (e.g Asbestos)
Landfill on site
Bare ground
Underground tanks
Give some examples of contamination
Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cardmium)
Oils and tars
Chemical substances
Gases
Asbestos
Radioactive substances
Japanese knotweed
Unexploded ordnance
Why is it important to identify contaminated land?
Remedial costs can be expensive
Can be dangerous
Need to understand obligations and responsibilities
How is contaminated land investigated?
4 phases
1: Prelim assessment (desktop assessment)
2: Detailed site investigation / assessment
3: Remediation report
4: Action following report
What does RICS guidance on contaminated land say?
Outlines the role of surveyors and professionals advising on contaminated land
Types of environmental reports (Environmental Screen Report e.g)
Impact of environmental law on evaluation
Property observation checklist
Reporting outcomes in a valuation
Guidance for acquisiations, disposals , lettings and PM instructions
What do you understand by Government Guidance, Land Contamination: Risk Management?
LCRM details how to assess and manage risks from land contamination
Who published the LCRM?
Published in 2020 by the Environment Agency
What is an environmental impact assessment and who would need one?
An EIA is a tool used to assess the significant effects of a project or development proposal on the environment
Needed prior to a development (so developers and landlords need one)
What is radon and where is it found?
Colourless, odourless gas, produced naturally in rocks and soils
How do you reduce the risk of Radon?
Seal off hatches that contact the ground
Improve ventilation
Tell me about risks relating to air conditioning
Badly maintained AC can disperse germs – can build up fungi, pollen and bacteria over time.
Tiredness
Dehydration
Dry skin
Headaches
Banned refrigerants (chemical compound) – R22 banned in 2004 as bad for environment
