Building Condition Surveys A Practical and Concise Introduction

Condition surveys are becoming increasingly important and standardised in approach but are a high risk service with the potential for legal consequences if mistakes are made. Professionals therefore require clear, up-to-date advice on how to inspect and report accurately and this book provides a one-stop shop of uniquely practical, concise and accessible guidance written by one of the leading authorities in the field. The key coverage includes: Domestic and commercial surveys; surveys for historic, new and dilapidated buildings Improvements to surveys including the inclusion of colour photographs, condition ratings, use of the term ‘technical due diligence’ and increased professionalization New techniques for further investigation including thermography, endoscopy and ground radar Advances in the diagnosis of causes of masonry cracking New hazards such as Japanese Knotweed Updated to reflect the latest RICS regulations, legislation and guidance on building surveying Case studies of both bad and good practice and images to illustrate real world problems and solutions

1. Introduction 2. Types of Survey 3. Preparation 4. Specialist Advice 5. Equipment 6. The Inspection Procedure 7. Inspecting the Essentials 8. Inspecting Services and Environment 9. Inspecting Other Elements 10. Writing the Report 11. Case Study of a Good Building Survey Report 12. Case Study of a Poor Building Survey Report Further Reading and References Index

Mike Hoxley is a chartered building surveyor who worked in practice for 15 years before becoming an academic. He teaches building pathology at Nottingham Trent University and is the coordinator for all built environment PhD students. As an expert in the field, he edited the leading journal on the subject Structural Survey for 16 years and served on the International Board of the Building Surveying Professional Group of the RICS from 2005-2009.