Specific Defect Survey

Client Consultation & Briefing

• The surveyor discusses the client’s concerns and gathers information about the defect.
• Relevant documents, such as previous surveys, architectural plans, or maintenance records, may be reviewed.

Site Inspection

• A physical inspection of the affected area is conducted, assessing the extent, nature, and potential causes of the defect.
• The surveyor may use tools like moisture meters (for damp), borescopes (for hidden voids), or thermal imaging cameras (for heat loss and insulation issues).

Assessment & Diagnosis

• The surveyor determines whether the defect is cosmetic, superficial, or indicative of a deeper structural or material failure.
• External factors such as drainage, weather exposure, or neighboring structures may be considered.

Recommendations & Reporting

• A detailed report is prepared, including findings, causes, and potential solutions.
• The report typically includes photographs, technical analysis, and cost implications for remediation.
• If necessary, the surveyor may recommend further investigations by specialists (e.g., structural engineers, damp, roofing or chimney specialists).

Advice & Next Steps

• The surveyor advises the client on the urgency of repairs, legal implications, and suitable remedial actions.
• Depending on the defect, recommendations may include DIY fixes, professional repairs, or further monitoring.
• A specific defect survey may give rise from involvement from other professionals to provide further opinion if needed. 

Common Specific Defects in Buildings

Buildings can suffer from a wide range of defects due to poor construction, material failure, environmental conditions, or lack of maintenance. Below is a list of 30 common specific defects found in buildings:

Below you will find a list of 30 common specific defects. 

Structural Defects

1. Cracks in Walls & Ceilings – Can result from settlement, thermal movement, or structural failure.

2. Subsidence & Ground Movement – Causes sinking or tilting of buildings due to soil instability.

3. Lintel Failure – Cracked or sagging brickwork above windows/doors due to corroded or inadequate lintels.

4. Wall Tie Failure – Common in older cavity walls where corroded ties cause bulging or cracking.

5. Poor Structural Support – Inadequate foundations, undersized beams, or failing load-bearing walls.

6. Defective Reinforced Concrete – Spalling or cracking due to reinforcement corrosion.

Roofing Defects

7. Leaking Roofs – Due to broken/missing tiles, poor flashing, or inadequate waterproofing.

8. Sagging Roofs – Caused by weakened rafters, insufficient support, or overloading.

9. Blocked or Faulty Gutters & Downpipes – Leading to water ingress and damp problems.

10. Flat Roof Failure – Cracking or ponding due to poor drainage or membrane deterioration.

After completing a Specific Defect Survey, a Strut Building Surveyor plays a crucial role in coordinating the necessary repairs by engaging specialist contractors. Their expertise ensures that remedial work is carried out efficiently, in compliance with regulations, and to a high standard. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Interpretation of the Survey Report

• The surveyor carefully reviews the defect survey findings to determine the scope of remedial work required.
• They assess whether further specialist investigations (e.g., structural engineering analysis, damp testing, or invasive inspections) are necessary.
• A cost-benefit analysis is conducted to establish the most effective repair strategy.

2. Specification of Works & Tendering

• The surveyor prepares a detailed repair specification, outlining:
• The exact work required.
• Materials and techniques to be used.
• Compliance with building regulations and industry standards.
• If necessary, they create tender documents and invite reputable specialist contractors to bid for the work.

3. Selection of Specialist Contractors

• The surveyor sources and vets qualified contractors, ensuring they have:
• The right certifications (e.g., Gas Safe for heating, NICEIC for electrical work, CSCS for construction).
• A track record of quality workmanship.
• Appropriate insurance and health & safety compliance.
• They compare quotes, balancing cost with quality and reliability.

4. Contract Administration & Project Management

• The surveyor prepares contracts to formalize the agreement between the client and the contractor.
• They oversee the works to:
• Ensure adherence to the specification.
• Monitor progress and troubleshoot issues.
• Verify compliance with building regulations, planning permissions, and warranties.
• Site visits and inspections are conducted to maintain quality control.

5. Quality Assurance & Final Inspection

• Upon completion, the surveyor:
• Inspects the work to confirm it meets the agreed standards.
• Identifies any snagging issues that need rectification before final approval.
• Ensures all necessary documentation (e.g., warranties, compliance certificates) is handed over to the client.

6. Ongoing Maintenance & Future Prevention

• The surveyor may provide advice on preventative maintenance to avoid recurring issues.
• A long-term maintenance plan may be recommended, particularly for buildings with ongoing structural or environmental risks.

Strut Building Surveyors act as a bridge between the property owner and specialist contractors, ensuring that repairs are carried out efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards. Our role extends beyond inspection to project management, quality control, and future-proofing the building against defects.