Gold Standard Design & Surveying

One of our recent Building Surveys on a four storey end-terrace property in Co. Derry / L’Derry 🏡

Our report breaks the property down into the main building elements with “traffic light” colour coded condition ratings applied to each 🚦

We also supplement text with photos, sketches and diagrams making the report straightforward to navigate and easy to digest ✅

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can assist you with the process 🤝

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.gsdsurveying.com

Small selection of photographs taken during a recent Level 3 Building Survey 🏡

I think it’s safe to say the interlocking concrete tiles to this property and outbuilding have surpassed their serviceable lifespan 🏚️❌

It’s amazing the amount of additional information that can be gathered on site using a drone 🚁

Oftentimes, this additional information can be invaluable for the client.

Contact us today to see how we can help you with your property needs.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.gsdsurveying.com

💧 Specific Defect Survey - Reported Dampness💧

📍Co. Tyrone📍

We were instructed to carry out a specific defect survey on reported dampness/condensation issues and make recommendations to alleviate.

We adopted traditional inspection techniques during our survey and also utilised our drone and thermal imaging camera to help gather valuable information.

Contact us today to see how we can help you with your property needs.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.gsdsurveying.com

🎉 Delighted to share that we’ve recently been accepted as full members of the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) 🎉

The RPSA is a representative body for independent residential surveyors who are recognised as the industry’s leading specialists 📝🏡

Our membership of RPSA complements our existing RICS membership and further demonstrates our credibility, professionalism, and commitment to always striving to deliver a high quality service to our clients.

Struggling to see how someone could arrive at the conclusion that a chemical injected DPC would address the root cause of this issue 🤔

Unfortunately, this homeowner has been mis-sold a chemical injected DPC that’s likely cost thousands of pounds to install.

Below are just some basic observations we made when inspecting the property ⬇️

❌External render taken down to ground level and bridging existing DPC.

❌Downpipe discharging directly onto concrete hard standing and not to below ground drainage.

❌Internal plaster in direct contact with solid ground floor and bridging existing DPC.

❌Original timber suspended ground floor later replaced with a solid concrete floor. Returning high moisture meter readings throughout. Suspect no provision of DPM or significant failure of DPM.

❌External walls are of early cavity wall construction and the chemical injected DPC has only been installed to the outer leaf.

Clearly no consideration has been given to the principles within the joint position statement here.

At Gold Standard Design & Surveying, we specialise in providing impartial professional advice which is tailored to your specific property.

We are an RICS regulated firm and have over 10 years industry experience. We are also full members of the RPSA.

Contact us today to see how we can help you with your property related matters.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.gsdsurveying.com

✍🏻 Blog Post 📝

Check out our latest blog post below on the importance of getting a home survey done, the different types available, and why a lenders valuation is not the same as a survey.

https://www.gsdsurveying.com/blog/what-is-a-home-survey

🏡 Building Survey 🏡

📍Co. Antrim📍

A recent building survey on a circa 1920’s two storey semi-detached property.

Some issues for consideration include:

➡️ Strongly suspected asbestos containing fibre cement slates approaching the end of their serviceable lifespan.

➡️ Some spalled brickwork and deteriorated/missing mortar pointing in places.

➡️ High moisture meter readings and condensation staining noted to inner face of external walls in some locations.

➡️ Solid ground floor dropped considerably likely caused by settlement/consolidation of hardcore after installation.

➡️ High moisture meter readings throughout solid ground floor. No link between DPC and DPM (likely no DPM at all).

The client received a comprehensive report followed by a debrief call as standard. They now have a thorough understanding on the condition of the property to make a balanced and informed decision.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can assist you.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.gsdsurveying.com

🏡 Homebuyer Survey 🏡

📍Co. Antrim📍

A recent homebuyer survey on two storey mid-terrace property.

Overall, the property was in average condition in respect of its age and construction type.

Some issues noted for consideration include:

➡️ Failed canopy covering & decking and missing lead flashing abutment causing localised penetrating dampness

➡️ Isolated spalled bricks as a result of frost attack

➡️ Missing/deteriorated mortar benching around below ground drainage pipe work

➡️ None complaint oil tank base and separating distances

➡️ Gaps in party walls a fire safety concern

➡️ High moisture meter readings to part of ground floor

The client received a comprehensive report followed by a debrief call as standard. They now have a thorough understanding on the condition of the property to make a balanced and informed decision.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can help remove some the uncertainty and stress.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.gsdsurveying.com

🎉 Delighted to share our new website is now live! 🎉

Feel free to check it out to learn more about the services we provide 😊

www.gsdsurveying.com

Thanks again to See See for designing the website 🤝

🏡 Building Survey 🏡

📍Co. Fermanagh📍

A recent building survey on two storey semi-detached property.

Overall, the property was in fair condition although displaying signs of a lack of general maintenance.

The client received a comprehensive report followed by a debrief call as standard. They now have a thorough understanding on the condition of the property to make a balanced and informed decision.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can help remove some the uncertainty and stress.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]

🏡 Homebuyer Survey 🏡

📍Co. Tyrone📍

A recent homebuyer survey on two storey mid-terrace property.

Overall, the property was in fair condition in respect of its age and construction type.

Some issues noted for consideration include:

➡️ DPC bridged by raised planter abutting the rear elevation which is causing dampness internally

➡️ High moisture meter readings to the floor around the SVP casing indicative of a plumbing leak

➡️ deteriorated mastic sealant around window frames resulting in penetrating dampness to reveals internally

➡️ Lack of horizontal and diagonal bracing noted to truss roof construction

➡️ Lack of adequate ventilation within the roof space resulting in high relative humidity readings

➡️ Gaps in party walls a fire safety concern

➡️ suspected bees nest in roof space

The client received a comprehensive report followed by a debrief call as standard. They now have a thorough understanding on the condition of the property to make a balanced and informed decision.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can help remove some the uncertainty and stress.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]

Hi Everyone 👋🏻

It’s been a hectic few weeks here at Gold Standard Design & Surveying with no signs of things slowing up 🏡🕵️‍♂️💻

We have completed a range of different surveys across counties Tyrone, Fermanagh & Antrim.

We’re also working alongside Chris at See See who’s in the process of designing our new website which should be live over the coming weeks.

As always, we’re incredibly grateful to all our clients who have entrusted us to carry out building surveying services on their behalf.

🏡 Building Survey 🏡

📍Cookstown Co. Tyrone📍

A recent building survey on two storey mid-terrace property.

Overall, the property was in average condition in respect of its age and construction type. Some issues noted for consideration include:

➡️ Suspected plumbing leak emanating from ground floor WC

➡️ Evidence of penetrating dampness to chimney stack

➡️ Overflow saturating external wall and causing penetrating dampness internally.

➡️ Inadequate separation distance between oil tank and fence

➡️ Inadequate passive ventilation contributing to surface condensation and subsequent mould growth

The client received a comprehensive report followed by a debrief call as standard. They now have a thorough understanding on the condition of the property to make a balanced and informed decision.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can help remove some the uncertainty and stress.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]

We are delighted to have received another 5⭐️ review on our Google business profile for a recent home buyer survey.

It’s always nice and very much appreciated when clients take the time to leave a review 😊

We wish Andrew the very best of luck with his purchase and thank you for choosing Gold Standard Design & Surveying.

🏡 Home Buyer Survey 🏡

📍Omagh Co. Tyrone📍

A recent home buyer survey on two storey semi-detached property located on the outskirts of Omagh.

Some issues noted for consideration include:

➡️ Frost attack to some brickwork resulting in bricks spalling. Chimney stack in particularly poor condition.

➡️ Mortar pointing to brickwork substantially weathered in places.

➡️ Horizontal cracking to external render. It’s likely this is due to thermal expansion/contraction of render but can also be an indication of cavity wall tie issues (albeit unusual for this age of property).

➡️ Partially blocked sub-floor ventilation.

➡️ SVP leaking and below ground drainage completely blocked.

➡️ Poor provision of ventilation within the roof space resulting in high humidity readings

➡️ Suspected plumbing leak to underfloor pipework on the ground floor.

The client received a comprehensive report followed by a debrief call as standard. They now have a thorough understanding of the condition of the property to make a balanced and informed decision.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can help remove some the uncertainty and stress.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]

We are delighted to have received another 5⭐️ review on our Google business profile.

Appreciation from clients like Aaron provides us with a whole different level of job satisfaction ☺️

🥵 Not the best day to be stuck in a roof space 🥵

Building Survey + Drone Survey completed today in mid-ulster area to wrap up the week.

Now time to enjoy that lovely weather 😎☀️

🚁 Drone Survey 🚁

📍Omagh area Co. Tyrone📍

We were instructed to undertake a drone survey roof inspection to this residential property to assist with our clients pre-purchase due diligence.

🏡 Home Buyer Survey 🏡

📍Co. Antrim📍

A recent home buyer survey on a semi-rural two storey semi-detached property.

Some issues noted for consideration include:

➡️ No form of ventilation within the roof space resulting in high humidity levels and minor mould growth

➡️ Bathroom extract fan extracting directly into roof space (exacerbating the above issue)

➡️ Evidence of rodent activity within roof space (traps and droppings)

➡️ Insulation provision well below current standards

➡️ Original timber framed windows (approximately 31 years old) approaching the end of their serviceable lifespan

➡️ Elevated moisture meter readings at isolated locations on the ground floor

➡️ Potential access / right of way issue

The client received a comprehensive report followed by a debrief video call as standard. They now have a thorough understanding of the condition of the property to make a balanced and informed decision.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can help remove some the uncertainty and stress.

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]

What is a Home Buyer Survey (RICS Level 2 equivalent)❓

A home buyer survey is designed for clients who are seeking a professional opinion at an economic price, and is less comprehensive than a building survey.

It provides you with an assessment on the general condition of the main elements of the property. The inspection is not exhaustive, and no specific tests are undertaken of the service installations. However, a full visual inspection of all accessible areas is carried out to determine a general impression on the condition of the property.

This type of survey is only suitable for conventional properties that are in reasonable condition and haven’t been extensively altered or extended.

Why choose us❓

Our service includes a four-stage communicative approach as standard:
1️⃣ Consultation Call / Instruction
2️⃣ Survey Inspection
3️⃣ Survey Report
4️⃣ Post Report telephone / video call

We are also available by telephone or email throughout the entire process should you have any queries.

As a modern and vibrant practice we use some of the latest technological advancements to assist with on-site data collection, report writing, and to overall enhance the quality of service.

Contact us today to find out more about our home buyer survey service:

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]

When they ask for 20 years experience before you’ve graduated 🤣

Our apprentice Ollie (aka the boss of the house) keeping us right!

What is a Building Survey (RICS Level 3 equivalent)❓

A building survey is the most comprehensive report of its kind. It provides you with an in-depth analysis of the property’s condition including advice on defects, repairs and maintenance options.

A building survey is essential for older properties, larger or unusual buildings, altered buildings, or buildings of non-standard construction. It’s also recommended if you’re our planning any major work to the property.

Why choose us❓

Our service includes a four-stage communicative approach as standard:
1️⃣ Consultation Call / Instruction
2️⃣ Survey Inspection
3️⃣ Survey Report
4️⃣ Post Report telephone / video call

We are also available by telephone or email throughout the entire process should you have any queries.

As a modern and vibrant practice we use some of the latest technological advancements to assist with on-site data collection, report writing, and to overall enhance the quality of service.

Contact us today to find out more about our building survey service:

📞 07926 749 757
📧 [email protected]

Just when you think you’ve seen it all… 🤦🏻‍♂️

We recently carried out a Homebuyer Survey on a 1990’s semi-detached property.

The current owner upgraded the bathroom with a contemporary style bathroom suite approx. 3 years ago.

The upgrade works included the installation of a ceiling mounted extract fan.

The fan itself is operating as intended and extracting moist air from the bathroom.

The problem is, the moist air is being extracted directly into the roof space. There is no ducting within the roof space to duct the moist air to outside.

This has resulted in mould growth to the underside of the roofing felt and very high relative humidity readings (72.7%) within the roof space.

The current environmental conditions within the roof space leave the timbers at risk to both fungal attack and wood-boring insect attack.

Luckily, there was no evidence of either during our inspection and the issue can be easily rectified (on this occasion).

If our client hadn’t of undertaken a survey prior to purchase, it’s likely this issue would have gone unnoticed and manifested over the years (resulting in much more money and inconvenience to rectify).

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can assist.

🚁 Drone Survey 🚁

📍Co. Antrim📍

We were instructed to undertake a Drone Survey to a block of apartments following reports of high level water ingress.

At five storeys high this roof is not readily accessible for inspection, but our drone was able to pin point defects within minutes.

The inspection itself was completed within one hour, at minimal cost, and without risk to life.

Although the drone can’t carry out the repairs, the appointed contractor will know exactly what they are dealing with and can plan their works accordingly.

Contact us today to see how we can help you with your property matters.

☺️Client Feedback - Building Survey☺️

Just received a lovely call from a client to thank us for such a thorough and comprehensive service.

We highlighted in our report that we strongly suspected a plumbing leak to the ground floor hallway area, and recommended a leak detection specialist be appointed to identify and repair.

It transpires that there was in fact a leak and this has now been repaired by the sellers in advance of completion. Not only has this saved our client considerable distribution and inconvenience, but the money saved by not having to repair the leak themselves has more than covered the cost of our report. Result ✅✅

Feedback like this really means so much to us and demonstrates our commitment to providing a high standard and valuable service.

Specific Defect Survey - Damp 💦

We were instructed to investigate damp related issues to this early 1900’s mid-terrace property.

In our experience, basic routine maintenance is often overlooked closely followed by inappropriate ‘repairs’ or alterations. These are usually the causes or major contributing factors of damp related issues internally.

This is mainly due to a lack of knowledge and education which is completely understandable.

Some basic issues noted on this survey included:

❌ Blocked gullies
❌ Missing waste pipe (water running down wall)
❌ Partially blocked gutters
❌ Downpipes discharging directly onto hard standing
❌ Raised ground levels externally
❌ Inappropriate cement-rich repointing works (accelerating deterioration / spalling of brickwork)
❌ Inappropriate use of masonry paint (trapping moisture behind)
❌ Extract fans turned off and not in use
❌ Trickle vents closed and not used
❌ Radiators used to dry clothes

Got a property related issue? Contact us today to see how we can assist you.

🏡Pre-Purchase Building Survey🏡

📍Co. Donegal📍

A recent Building Survey on a modern two-storey detached house in Donegal.

Some issues noted included:

➡️ Suspected plumbing leak to pipework underneath the ground floor.

➡️ Disconnected smoke alarms and lack of CO detection.

➡️ Considerable lean / bulge noted to approximately 3m high retaining wall in rear garden.

➡️ Evidence of blockage to foul drainage system (I have refrained from posting photo 🙂)

The client received a comprehensive report and follow up telephone call as standard. They now have the information at their disposal to make an informed decision about the property.

In the process of buying a property? Contact us today to see how we can assist.