Residential Property Defects - 4 Part Series

March 2025 Schedule

1. 05/03/2025 | 15:00 - 16:30 (GMT)
2. 12/03/2025 | 15:00 - 16:30 (GMT)
3. 19/03/2025 | 15:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
4. 28/03/2025 | 13:00 - 14:30 (GMT)

Class 1 - Structural Damage and Cracking

Cracking in low-rise buildings takes many forms and it’s important to know the implications for lending and insurability. Review real-life examples to gain a solid understanding of reporting requirements for structural movement.

Look through the different forms of structural movement that affect dwellings, how they should be reported and what to look for when movement is evident. Using real-life examples gathered from surveys and valuations for lending, this is the ideal opportunity to gain a practical understanding of how cracking and structural movement can effectively be identified and relayed in surveys and reports. 

Class 2 - Damp

On average, the UK has to cope with a high level of rain water each year, and thus damp is potentially a problem affecting all buildings.

This class takes an in-depth look at the common forms of dampness and how it affects buildings. It includes an explanation of the common causes of dampness, the consequences and rectification of rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation. The trainer will advise on diagnosis and investigation techniques and the use of damp meters and other instruments.

Class 3 - Roofing

Failure to diagnose Roof construction defects can lead to a number of issues in residential properties and even claims against surveyors. Don’t get caught out! Ensure you’re confident in inspecting and diagnosing problems.

The roof is a residential property’s first line of defence against the elements and a key part of the building’s ‘external envelope’. The failure of a roof to meet its functional requirements can have disastrous effects upon the building and for its occupants.

However, as roof coverings and loft spaces are often awkward or difficult areas to access during inspections, recording accurate information can be hard. Because of this, they are often neglected or overlooked during surveys. 

Don’t fall into this trap – ensure you are confident in inspecting, diagnosing and advising on issues with roofing, and make sure you avoid the risk of negligence claims against surveyors. 

The course will demonstrate best practice in inspecting pitched and flat roofs in order to identify common defects and how they can be recorded accurately in your report. This class forms an important part of our series of classes looking at residential property defects, all of which will help you in your role as a residential building surveyor.

Class 4 – Timber Decay and Infestation

Timber decay and infestations are one of the most common defects affecting all buildings.

This class takes an in-depth look at the common forms of timber infestations and its effect on buildings. It includes an explanation of the common causes of timber infestations and the consequences and rectification of wet rot, dry rot and timber infestations.