Building pathology in its most basic form is essentially defect analysis and associated remedial action.
At Healthy Abode both Peter and Stuart advocate taking a holistic approach to surveying, investigation and diagnosis of defects and understanding buildings, and we feel that this is particuarly important, when considering those structures that are of a historic nature and/or Listed status.
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) define 'Building pathology', as follows,"building pathology considers how the structure and materials of a building relate to its environment, its occupants and the way the building is used, so as to develop a better understanding of building failures". As such, when considering damp and timber defects, Healthy Abode are best placed to undertake building pathology reports and to oversee the necessary remedial works.
For larger projects, our investigations usually start with a desktop survey, to collate historic and background information; this takes the form of ageing the property, obtaining site plans and looking through the property files for evidence of related remedial treatments.
We then arrange for a thorough survey of the property in order to carry out our investigations. Using specialist equipment, such as electronic moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, calcium carbide meters, boroscopes, dye-testing, lasers, chemical analysis kits, hygrometers etc etc we accurately map the defects.
On larger properties it can be neccesary to re-visit the property; or as ongoing periodic monitoring. As well as acting for private individuals, we are regularly employed by Housing Associations, Councils, landowners, charitable trusts and commercial clients. Our detailed reports are written clearly, we include colour photographs of defects and having identified defects, can outline recommended remedial treatments.
Should you wish for further information on obtaining a 'building pathology survey' and to see how we could help, please contact us