Common Defects Advice

Our Common Defects Advice page highlights the issues most often found during property inspections. Explore our articles to learn how to recognise problems such as damp, structural movement, or roofing defects, and find practical guidance on what these mean for your home and how they can be addressed.
Pitched roof defects

Pitched Roof Coverings

Common Defects on Pitched Roof Coverings Pitched roofs are a defining feature of UK homes, offering charm and robust protection against the elements. Yet underneath those tiles lies a host

Flat roofs

Flat Roofs

Key Considerations for Flat Roofs in UK Properties Flat roofs have long been a common sight in the UK, particularly on extensions, garages, commercial buildings, and certain modernist homes. While

Structural Movement

Subsidence

Recognising Subsidence The word that everyone dreads: “subsidence” – it’s one of the most concerning structural issues a property owner or prospective buyer can encounter. It occurs when the ground

Cavity Wall Tie Failure

Cavity Wall Tie Failure

Recognising Cavity Wall Tie Failure Cavity wall ties play a critical role in the structural stability of many UK homes built with cavity wall construction. Acting as concealed connectors between

Settlement in buildings

Settlement

Understanding Settlement When a property is newly built or undergoes structural changes, it’s perfectly natural for it to ‘settle’ into its foundations. This process, known as settlement, is part of

What is Japanese Knotweed and What Can You Do About It?

Japanese Knotweed

Japanese knotweed, scientifically known as Fallopia japonica or Polygonum cuspidatum, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to East Asia. It was used for lots of things from medicine to stabilising

Pest Infestations: How to Spot Them and What to Do

Pest Infestations

Pest infestations can wreak havoc on buildings, causing structural damage, compromising hygiene, and creating unpleasant living or working conditions. This article aims to provide insight into common pest infestations and

what are the different types of damp

Damp

Persistent Moisture Problems in UK Homes: In-Depth Guide to Damp and Rot Why Moisture is a Critical Concern for Property BuyersDamp is more than an unsightly problem — it is

What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral, once hailed for its resistance to heat, electricity, and corrosion. For this reason it was used extensively in building materials, insulation, and various other products.