Residential Defect Surveys

Building Pathology

If you are concerned about cracking, damp, insulation-related issues or timber decay, a Residential Defect Survey provides clear, independent advice on what is happening, why it is happening, and what should be done next.

At James Scott Associates, our defect surveys are carried out by Chartered Building Surveyors with specialist expertise in building pathology – the investigation, diagnosis and management of building defects.

When Is a Defect Survey Needed?

A Residential Defect Survey is particularly appropriate if you are experiencing or concerned about:

• Cracking to walls, ceilings or external masonry
• Dampness, mould or condensation
• Roof leaks or water ingress
• Signs of structural movement or settlement
• Defective or inappropriate cavity wall insulation
• Issues associated with spray foam roof insulation
• Timber decay, including dry rot and wet rot
• Defective alterations or poor workmanship

Early investigation can help prevent further deterioration, reduce repair costs and avoid unnecessary remedial work.

Specialist Defect Investigations

We regularly investigate complex and high-risk defect issues, including:

Cavity Wall Insulation

Assessment of cavity wall insulation performance, including identification of:

• Inappropriate or defective installation
• Moisture bridging and damp risk
• Compatibility with construction type and exposure

Spray Foam Insulation

Independent assessment of spray foam roof insulation, including:

• Impact on roof structure and timbers
• Ventilation and condensation risk
• Implications for mortgageability and future maintenance

Dry Rot and Wet Rot

Investigation of timber decay to identify:

• Type and extent of fungal attack
• Underlying moisture sources
• Appropriate remedial strategies

A Diagnostic, Evidence-Led Approach

Rather than relying on assumptions, our surveys are informed by professional diagnostic equipment and testing, allowing us to form clear, evidence-based conclusions.

Our inspections may include:

• Protimeter MMS3 moisture meter testing
• Salt analysis testing to help distinguish between rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation-related issues
• Visual and contextual assessment of construction and ventilation

This approach reduces uncertainty and helps avoid inappropriate or unnecessary remedial works.

Training, Knowledge and Professional Standards

In addition to being Chartered Building Surveyors, we place strong emphasis on maintaining up-to-date specialist knowledge.

Our surveyors:

• Keep informed of best practice and guidance from industry-leading bodies such as the Property Care Association (PCA)
• Have completed specialist training in damp, timber decay and building defects
• Apply current standards and guidance when forming professional opinion

This ensures advice that is informed, balanced and aligned with accepted industry practice.

Clear Advice You Can Act On

Our Residential Defect Surveys provide:

• Clear diagnosis of defects and likely causes
• Practical repair and management recommendations
• Guidance on urgency and prioritisation
• Advice on further investigations where necessary
• Indicative budget costs for remedial works, where appropriate

Reports are written in plain English and tailored to the specific property and issue.

Optional Enhanced Investigations

Where appropriate, we offer optional survey enhancements, including:

• Thermal imaging to assist with diagnosing moisture, insulation and heat-loss issues
• Drone imagery for safe inspection of roofs, chimneys and high-level elements
• Consultation with a Chartered Building Surveyor to discuss findings and next steps in detail

These options allow the investigation to be tailored without unnecessary cost.

Independent Advice You Can Trust

As an established Blackpool-based surveying practice, we have in-depth knowledge of local housing stock and the defects commonly associated with coastal exposure, traditional construction and retrofit insulation measures.

Our defect surveys are:

• Independent and impartial
• Focused on diagnosis, not selling remedial works
• Proportionate and evidence-based
• Overseen at FRICS (Fellow of RICS) level

Whether you are a homeowner, landlord or purchaser, James Scott Associates provide trusted, professional advice to help you understand your property and make informed decisions.

Defect Surveys FAQs