Specific Defect Survey

Targeted professional advice on a particular property concern

A Specific Defect Survey concentrates on one clearly defined problem or a closely related group of issues, rather than assessing the entire property.

It may be suitable where you have concerns about matters such as:

• Cracking or possible structural movement
• A particular roof defect
• Water penetration or leakage
• Deteriorated masonry, render or pointing
• A defective chimney or parapet
• Timber decay
• A failed or deteriorated building component
• The condition of a previous repair or alteration

What will the report explain?

The relevant area will be visually inspected where accessible. The report will explain:

• What was observed
• The likely cause of the defect
• Its apparent significance
• Whether further investigation is necessary
• The repairs or monitoring recommended
• The appropriate contractor or specialist
• Any important limitations affecting the assessment

The scope is agreed before the inspection so that it is clear which elements and concerns will be covered.

Important limitations

A Specific Defect Survey is not a substitute for a Level 2 or Level 3 survey when advice is required on the property as a whole.

Some issues may also require intrusive investigation, laboratory testing or assessment by another specialist. For example, detailed investigation of dampness may require a competent independent damp and timber surveyor, while suspected structural movement may require a structural engineer.

Where specialist investigation is considered necessary, this will be clearly explained.

Contact Millfield Residential Surveying with details and photographs of the issue, where available, so that we can advise whether a Specific Defect Survey is appropriate.