Pitched Roof Structures You’ve clambered up into the roof void, the attic. What’s the function of those wooden planks and what problems are associated too? Unless it’s a flat roof, the upper most board that normally runs across the top is the ‘ridge board’. This is the apex or peak of the hipped roof. […]
So you have diligently used our blog entries to guide you in viewing a property. You can see concrete tiles and the estate agent has said‘ Don’t worry, it has a new roof!’ Why should you be concerned?! Half of the ‘new roofs’ we inspect at in the Bristol area should have Building Regulations approvals […]
IS IT A SELFIE STICK? Members of the public and vendors often see us with cameras on tall poles at the front of houses. It’s strange to see a fully grown man with a giant “Selfie Stick” as lots of people call them!They are intrigued by what we are doing and ask questions. We have […]
Is that converted attic described as a ‘Loft Room’ in the Agent’s particulars? Then beware – the trick is in the wording! This is often ‘agent speak’ for conversions that do not benefit from Building Regulations approvals. Hence it is not considered habitable space and as such cannot be lived in. Nor will it be […]
“IT’S GOT A CONSERVATORY!” But that may be a mixed blessing… It’s generally expected that a Conservatory will be a glass box attached to the back or side of a house.However, perceptions about conservatories have changed a lot over the years. For instance, a survey in 1991 by RICS (the Royal Institution of […]
SUMMARISING THE CONDITION OF THE PROPERTY Over the past few months we have been unpicking the individual elements of the property for you to consider during your viewing. So have our blog open on your tablet or phone to help you follow the sequence, external elements first, then internal ones. Print off the tick sheet […]
DAMPNESS Damp has been found in properties since we lived in caves! During the feedback sessions after our surveys, this is one of the most worrying issues for our clients. They often prick up their ears at the mention of dampness in a property! A recent survey suggests that 67% of people would consider pulling […]
Gardens Landscaping An attractively landscaped garden is a great feature, but it requires maintenance, time and effort. Is that decking going rotten? Is it dangerously slippery? Are there broken paving slabs or loose handrails to steps? Is there a pond that may be hazardous to small children? Boundaries First look at the size and shape […]
FLOORS Floors aren’t just places to put soft carpets or smart tiles. They are integral to the structure of the building, providing support for the internal walls. Hence they need to be firm and reasonably level. They are generally either ‘solid’ or of suspended timber. Solid Floors These are made of concrete and can be […]