In older properties, sulphate attack is one of the most common problems affecting chimney stacks. The chimney stacks of most houses are exposed to the worst of the weather, by their very nature, and have been known to take the brunt of most storms and periods of rainfall. This can lead to damage to the …
On a recent building survey in Nottinghamshire I was in awe of the house I had been sent to inspect, as the electric gates parted an 1800s farmhouse with double extension sweeping driveway and large glazed front door with statues on either side greeted me. Starting my inspection externally I noted a new roof had …
A great majority of residential homes within the UK have a chimney. As a nation, it is so important for us to have houses with chimneys that we even still build “fake” chimney stacks on brand new properties that have no function whatsoever, other than to look aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and satisfy our …
Bonfire night is one its way, that wonderful time of year where kids and adults alike gather around to watch the sky light up. You might be planning on attending a giant fireworks display, or you might be planning something a little more private. If you’re looking to have a bonfire of your own at …
A Neighbourly Dispute When surveying properties, it’s important to expect the unexpected, but sometimes you can’t avoid surprises. I carried out a Building Survey a couple of months ago on a 3-bedroom end terrace property that was on auction. Upon my arrival at the property, I was happily welcomed by the client who mentioned that …
Expect The Unexpected: Lessons Learned from Two Property Surveys Read More »
In an ever-changing world, it’s the duty of every industry to understand the importance of a diverse, equal, and inclusive workforce. Businesses need to be able to reflect the diversity of the world around them, and chartered surveyors are no exception. That’s why we’re so excited that Goldcrest’s first guest post is from Sybil Taunton. …
Sybil Taunton on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity in the Surveying Industry Read More »
There are common defects with secondary roof coverings (felt under the roof tiles) that often go unnoticed as it is difficult to identify and if left for long enough can cause significant damage that can be very costly to repair. One location where damage can occur is at the eaves of the roof. This can …
Many homes that we survey are found to have elevated levels of moisture, causing condensation and dampness and we often recommend installing a PIV, or Positive InputVentilation system. But what are they and how do they work? Positive input ventilation (PIV) is a low-energy, whole home ventilation method. It looks toprotect homeowners from the many …
Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) Units & Systems Read More »
How do we get rid of damp? Ideally the earlier you can spot signs of damp within your home the easier it will be to get rid of as less damage will have occurred and it will have less of a ‘hold’ within your property. Look for clear indications on your walls, such as wet …
It was during an unseasonably cold day in April this year that I was instructed to undertake a Level three building survey on a stone cottage just on the outskirts of Maidstone, Kent. My drive to the agents, to collect the keys, took me through a dense forest area. As I was reflecting on the …
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