Building Pathology - Level 1 Flashcards
(238 cards)
1
Q
What are the different types of survey you are aware of?
A
There are various types of surveys including Home Surveys, Building Surveys, and Condition Surveys.
2
Q
What is a typical defect you are aware of relating to typical buildings in your locality?
A
A typical defect might be dampness or cracking in walls.
3
Q
What is a building defect you are likely to encounter in a typical building survey?
A
Common defects include structural issues, dampness, and poor insulation.
4
Q
What type of testing are you aware of?
A
Testing methods include moisture testing, thermal imaging, and structural integrity assessments.
5
Q
What tools can you use to diagnose building defects?
A
Tools include moisture meters, thermal cameras, and visual inspection equipment.
6
Q
What are the five steps you would take to diagnose a building defect?
A
- Identify the symptoms. 2. Investigate potential causes. 3. Assess the extent of the defect. 4. Recommend repairs. 5. Document findings.
7
Q
What is a sign and what is a symptom in relation to building pathology?
A
A sign is an observable indicator of a defect, while a symptom is a condition that suggests a defect may exist.
8
Q
When might thermal imaging be helpful in diagnosing a building defect?
A
Thermal imaging is useful for identifying heat loss, moisture intrusion, and electrical issues.
9
Q
What are the different RICS Home Survey reports?
A
The RICS Home Survey reports include Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 surveys, each providing varying levels of detail.
10
Q
When might a client instruct one of these Home Survey reports?
A
Clients might instruct a Home Survey report when purchasing a property or assessing its condition.
11
Q
What RICS guidance relates to one of the RICS Home Survey reports?
A
RICS provides guidance on the standards and methodologies for conducting Home Surveys.
12
Q
Explain the changes made in the new Home Survey Standard.
A
The new Home Survey Standard includes updated protocols for reporting and assessing property conditions.
13
Q
What RICS guidance relating to Home Surveys are you aware of?
A
Guidance includes best practices for inspections, reporting standards, and client communication.
14
Q
How would you tailor your approach to building pathology and defect analysis in a level 1 / 2 / 3 report?
A
The approach varies by report level, with Level 1 being basic, Level 2 more detailed, and Level 3 comprehensive.
15
Q
What is following the trail of suspicion and what must you do in relation to this?
A
Following the trail of suspicion involves investigating signs and symptoms to identify underlying defects.
16
Q
What relevant caselaw are you aware of in relation to following the trail?
A
Relevant caselaw may include cases that establish precedents for building defects and liability.
17
Q
What are condition ratings?
A
Condition ratings assess the state of building elements, typically on a scale from 1 to 3.
18
Q
What are the different types of condition ratings?
A
Condition ratings include 1 (good), 2 (satisfactory), 3 (poor), and NI (not inspected).
19
Q
Explain your understanding of one of the condition ratings.
A
A condition rating of 1 indicates that an element is in good condition and requires no immediate action.
20
Q
What advice would you give further to a condition rating of 1/2/3?
A
For a rating of 1, no action is needed; for 2, monitor the condition; for 3, recommend repairs.
21
Q
When would a condition rating of NI be given?
A
A condition rating of NI is given when an element has not been inspected.
22
Q
What is an example of a serious/urgent defect?
A
A serious defect may include structural failure or significant water ingress.
23
Q
How do you apply the condition ratings?
A
Condition ratings are applied based on visual inspections and assessments of building elements.
24
Q
How do you identify the elements and sub-elements?
A
Elements and sub-elements are identified through systematic inspection and categorization.
25
How do you apply the relevant condition rating?
The relevant condition rating is applied based on the observed condition of each element.
26
How do you establish the element rating?
Element ratings are established through inspection findings and comparison to condition rating criteria.
27
When would you include costings in a report?
Costings are included when repairs or replacements are necessary and can be estimated.
28
When would the provision of costings need to be a separate service?
Costings may require a separate service when detailed analysis and estimates are needed.
29
What is your understanding of various building defects?
Defects include issues related to dampness, movement, structural integrity, and material degradation.
30
Explain the key principles of the new RICS guidance relating to asbestos.
The guidance emphasizes the identification, management, and safe handling of asbestos in buildings.
31
Give examples of where asbestos is commonly found.
Asbestos is commonly found in insulation, roofing materials, and floor tiles.
32
What elements of the building might these affect?
Asbestos can affect insulation, walls, ceilings, and flooring.
33
What reasoned advice might you give as a result?
Advise on safe removal or management of asbestos materials in compliance with regulations.
34
Take me through your defect diagnosis methodology when you identify cracking.
1. Assess the location and type of cracking. 2. Determine potential causes. 3. Evaluate severity. 4. Recommend repairs.
35
How do you tailor this to the scope of your instruction?
Tailoring involves adjusting the methodology based on the specific instructions and requirements of the survey.
36
Explain these terms: heave, seasonal movement, settlement, shrinkage, subsidence, thermal movement.
These terms describe various types of ground and structural movements affecting buildings.
37
What does BRE Digest 251 relate to?
BRE Digest 251 relates to the assessment and classification of cracking in buildings.
38
How does it define cracking?
Cracking is defined as a visible fracture in a building element, indicating potential structural issues.
39
How do you use the categories in BRE Digest 251 when diagnosing movement?
Categories help classify the type and severity of cracking for appropriate diagnosis and reporting.
40
How would you report on the ease of repair of cracking?
Report on the extent of cracking and recommend repair methods based on severity.
41
When will building movement require further investigation?
Further investigation is needed when movement poses a risk to structural integrity or safety.
42
What does Building Regulations Approved Document A say about the stability and structural framework of buildings?
It outlines requirements for structural stability and safety in building design and construction.
43
How would you establish the age of a crack?
The age of a crack can be established through visual assessment and historical analysis.
44
How would you establish whether cracking is historic or progressive?
Assessing the characteristics and patterns of cracking helps determine if it is historic or ongoing.
45
How would you use sketches when diagnosing building movement?
Sketches can illustrate the location and extent of movement, aiding in diagnosis and reporting.
46
How would you define the serviceability of a building in relation to movement?
Serviceability refers to the building's ability to function safely and effectively despite movement.
47
How can you establish building distortion using a variety of tools?
Tools like levels and laser measures can help assess and quantify building distortion.
48
How would you diagnose foundation movement?
Diagnose by assessing signs of distress, settlement patterns, and soil conditions.
49
How can trees and shrubs contribute to building movement?
Roots can extract moisture from soil, leading to ground shrinkage and foundation movement.
50
What three steps would you take when assessing the effect of trees on a property?
1. Identify tree species and proximity. 2. Assess soil conditions. 3. Evaluate structural impacts.
51
How would you measure the height of a tree?
Use a clinometer or measuring tape to determine the height of a tree.
52
Explain the lateral zone of influence of trees related to water demand.
This zone defines the area where tree roots extract moisture, affecting soil stability.
53
Why might removal of a tree cause building movement?
Removal can lead to increased soil moisture and subsequent ground movement.
54
What type of soils are most susceptible to ground movement?
Clay soils are particularly susceptible to shrinkage and expansion due to moisture changes.
55
Explain what BRE Digest 475 relates to.
BRE Digest 475 provides guidance on assessing and managing ground movement in buildings.
56
Who would be an appropriate professional to refer further investigations relating to building movement to?
A structural engineer or geotechnical specialist would be appropriate for further investigations.
57
What is lateral instability and how can it cause building movement?
Lateral instability occurs when forces cause a building to lean or shift, leading to structural issues.
58
What is the ‘middle-third rule’?
The middle-third rule relates to load distribution in structural elements to ensure stability.
59
How would you identify and diagnose wall tie failure?
Identify through visual inspection and assess for signs of movement or deterioration.
60
What type and age of wall ties are liable to wall tie failure?
Older wall ties, particularly those made of mild steel, are more prone to failure.
61
How can cavity wall tie failure be remediated?
Remediation may involve replacing failed ties and reinforcing the wall structure.
62
What is sulphate attack?
Sulphate attack is a chemical reaction that damages concrete and masonry due to sulphate exposure.
63
How would you diagnose sulphate attack?
Diagnosis involves visual inspection for cracking and testing for sulphate levels in materials.
64
Where would you expect to commonly find sulphate attack?
Common locations include areas with high sulphate soil or near industrial sites.
65
How and why might masonry expand?
Masonry can expand due to moisture absorption, leading to cracking and structural issues.
66
How can this cause cracking?
Expansion can create internal stresses that exceed the material's tensile strength, resulting in cracks.
67
When might roof spread occur?
Roof spread can occur when the roof structure is overloaded or improperly supported.
68
How can you diagnose roof spread?
Diagnosis involves inspecting for signs of sagging, cracking, and misalignment in roof structures.
69
How can roof spread be remediated?
Remediation may involve reinforcing the roof structure or redistributing loads.
70
Why might cracking occur in solid stone walls?
Cracking can occur due to thermal movement, moisture changes, or structural loads.
71
What defects might you find in stonework?
Defects may include cracking, spalling, and deterioration due to weathering.
72
Why might you find cracking around a bay window or enclosed porch?
Cracking may occur due to differential settlement or inadequate support.
73
Why might you identify corrosion in a concrete structure?
Corrosion can result from moisture intrusion, poor drainage, or inadequate protective measures.
74
What are the visual indications of carbonation in a concrete framed building?
Visual indications include surface discoloration, dusting, and cracking.
75
How do you test for carbonation?
Testing for carbonation can involve phenolphthalein solution application to concrete surfaces.
76
How can you repair carbonated concrete?
Repair methods include surface treatments and applying protective coatings.
77
Do you have to repair carbonated concrete?
Repair is necessary if carbonation leads to structural concerns or deterioration.
78
In what age of building is carbonation most likely to appear?
Carbonation is most likely to appear in older concrete structures.
79
What are the visual indications of chloride attack in a concrete framed building?
Indications include rust staining, cracking, and spalling of concrete.
80
How do you test for chloride attack?
Testing involves taking concrete samples and conducting chemical analysis for chloride content.
81
How does carbonation differ from chloride attack?
Carbonation is a chemical reaction with CO2, while chloride attack involves corrosion from chlorides.
82
Do you have to repair concrete suffering chloride attack?
Yes, repair is necessary to prevent further deterioration and structural damage.
83
How do you repair concrete suffering from chloride attack?
Repair methods include removing damaged areas and applying corrosion-resistant materials.
84
What is RAAC concrete and what issues relate to its use?
RAAC concrete is a lightweight material that can suffer from structural weaknesses and deterioration.
85
What RICS guidance would you look at in relation to moisture and traditional buildings?
RICS guidance on moisture management in traditional buildings addresses preservation and repair.
86
What are some of the key principles of this RICS Joint Position Statement?
Key principles include understanding moisture behavior and implementing appropriate management strategies.
87
What are the things to consider when using a protimeter?
Consider calibration, material type, and environmental conditions when using a protimeter.
88
What further investigations might you recommend if you identified excessive moisture in a building?
Recommend moisture mapping, material testing, and assessing drainage systems.
89
What BRE Digests are you aware of in relation to excessive moisture in buildings?
Relevant BRE Digests include those addressing moisture management and building fabric performance.
90
What types of moisture meter are you aware of?
Types include pin-type, pinless, and hygrometers.
91
When would you use each type of moisture meter?
Use pin-type for wood, pinless for non-destructive testing, and hygrometers for air moisture.
92
What does a moisture meter measure?
A moisture meter measures the moisture content in materials.
93
What does a moisture meter not measure?
It does not measure the cause of moisture or the extent of damage.
94
What is a moisture meter calibrated to?
Moisture meters are calibrated to specific materials for accurate readings.
95
What are the limitations of using a protimeter?
Limitations include material type sensitivity and potential for false readings.
96
How can moisture damage a building fabric?
Moisture can lead to decay, corrosion, and structural weakening.
97
How do traditional solid walled and modern cavity walled dwellings differ in terms of how they deal with moisture?
Traditional solid walls absorb moisture, while cavity walls provide drainage and insulation.
98
What are the most useful senses you can use when diagnosing excessive water?
Touch, sight, and smell are useful senses for diagnosing moisture issues.
99
Why do you need to know the moisture content of timber (WMC)?
Knowing WMC helps assess the risk of rot and insect damage.
100
At what WMC does timber become vulnerable to rot and insect attack?
Timber becomes vulnerable at a WMC above 20%.
101
Can you compare moisture levels in different building materials?
Yes, moisture levels can vary significantly between materials.
102
If you are using a protimeter in a material other than wood, should you use a % reading or a red/amber/green reading?
Use a red/amber/green reading for non-wood materials.
103
At what WMC does the accuracy of a protimeter diminish ‘considerably’?
Accuracy diminishes considerably above 30% WMC.
104
What is a typical WMC of timber?
A typical WMC of timber is around 12-15%.
105
Explain how you could use the search and pin modes of a protimeter to follow the trail of excessive moisture.
Use search mode for initial scanning and pin mode for precise measurements.
106
What does the Good Repair Guide 33 relate to?
It relates to the management and repair of moisture-related issues in buildings.
107
Where and when should you use a protimeter on a Home Survey?
Use a protimeter in areas showing signs of moisture during a Home Survey.
108
Does this differ between the survey levels?
Yes, the use of a protimeter may vary based on the detail required in each survey level.
109
How would you record your protimeter readings on a floor plan?
Record readings by marking locations and noting moisture levels on the plan.
110
What information would you record?
Record moisture levels, locations, and any observations related to moisture issues.
111
What destructive testing methods are you aware of to diagnose excessive moisture?
Destructive testing methods include core sampling and invasive moisture assessments.
112
What is the ‘speedy’ method?
The ‘speedy’ method is a quick test for assessing moisture content in concrete.
113
What defects found in an external solid wall can contribute to directly penetrating moisture?
Defects may include cracks, missing render, and poor pointing.
114
How can external render or wall coverings contribute to directly penetrating moisture?
Poorly applied or damaged render can allow moisture to penetrate the wall.
115
What other defects can contribute to directly penetrating moisture?
Defects like blocked gutters, missing flashings, and damaged roofing can contribute.
116
How can EWI contribute to directly penetrating moisture?
External Wall Insulation (EWI) can trap moisture if not installed correctly.
117
How can you diagnose moisture problems in cavity walls?
Diagnose by inspecting for damp patches, mold growth, and using moisture meters.
118
What are some of the causes of moisture problems in cavity walls?
Causes include poor insulation, bridging, and wall tie failure.
119
How would you identify whether a wall is of solid or cavity construction?
Identify by checking wall thickness and inspecting for cavity ties.
120
How can excessive moisture be created by modern extensions attached to older buildings?
Modern extensions may disrupt drainage and moisture flow, leading to issues.
121
How can cavity wall insulation fail and lead to excessive moisture?
Insulation can become saturated, leading to moisture retention and dampness.
122
What is cold bridging and how can it lead to excessive moisture?
Cold bridging occurs when thermal insulation is interrupted, allowing condensation to form.
123
How can a property’s exposure to driving rain lead to excessive moisture?
Driving rain can penetrate walls and roofs, overwhelming drainage systems.
124
How would you identify Urea Formaldehyde insulation and what problems relate to its use?
Identify by its distinctive odor and potential for thermal inefficiency and health risks.
125
What remedies can deal with problematic insulated cavity walls?
Remedies include removing insulation, improving ventilation, and repairing defects.
126
What is ‘rising damp’?
Rising damp is moisture that ascends through walls from the ground.
127
When and why might it occur?
It may occur when there is inadequate damp proofing or high groundwater levels.
128
When did DPCs become commonplace in houses?
Damp Proof Courses (DPCs) became commonplace in the mid-20th century.
129
How and why might a DPC fail?
A DPC may fail due to bridging, deterioration, or improper installation.
130
How can a DPC be bridged and what might the result of this be?
Bridging can occur through landscaping or external finishes, leading to rising damp.
131
What moisture problems can be caused by hygroscopic salts?
Hygroscopic salts can attract moisture, leading to dampness and decay.
132
How can you diagnose issues relating to hygroscopic salts?
Diagnosis involves visual inspection and testing for salt presence.
133
Describe a potential remedy for ‘rising damp’.
A potential remedy includes installing a new DPC and improving drainage.
134
What issues relate to the use of injected DPCs?
Injected DPCs may fail if not applied correctly or if the wall is saturated.
135
What is an electro-osmotic DPC?
An electro-osmotic DPC uses electrical currents to prevent rising damp.
136
What is the Schrijver system and why is it often problematic?
The Schrijver system is a method of damp proofing that can lead to moisture retention.
137
What are Dalton drying tubes?
Dalton drying tubes are used to facilitate drying in damp walls.
138
How can a replacement DPC be installed?
A replacement DPC can be installed by removing affected materials and inserting a new barrier.
139
How can the junction between the floor (DPM) and wall (DPC) lead to problems?
Poorly finished junctions can allow moisture to bypass the DPC, leading to rising damp.
140
How should this junction be appropriately finished?
The junction should be sealed and properly integrated to prevent moisture ingress.
141
What type of plaster should be used to replace salt contaminated plaster?
Use a breathable plaster to allow moisture to escape.
142
What is condensation?
Condensation is the process where moisture in the air turns into liquid on cooler surfaces.
143
How would you diagnose condensation?
Diagnosis involves checking for moisture buildup, mold growth, and humidity levels.
144
What are the causes of condensation?
Causes include inadequate ventilation, high humidity, and temperature differences.
145
How can you reduce condensation in a property?
Reduce condensation by improving ventilation and controlling humidity levels.
146
How long would you leave brick/plaster to dry out before commencing work?
Leave at least 4-6 weeks for drying before commencing work.
147
What is traumatic dampness?
Traumatic dampness is moisture intrusion caused by sudden events like leaks or flooding.
148
How would you diagnose traumatic dampness?
Diagnosis involves assessing the source of moisture and the extent of damage.
149
How can a chimney stack lead to excessive moisture in a building?
A chimney stack can allow moisture ingress if not properly maintained or sealed.
150
What are the main differences between wet rot and dry rot?
Wet rot requires moisture to thrive, while dry rot can spread in dry conditions.
151
What are the main indicators of wet and dry rot?
Indicators include discoloration, soft wood, and fungal growth.
152
What are the technical names for wet and dry rot?
Wet rot is caused by Serpula lacrymans, while dry rot is caused by various wood-decaying fungi.
153
What environmental conditions does dry rot need to grow?
Dry rot requires moisture, warmth, and poor ventilation to thrive.
154
Explain the WMC, temperatures, and level of ventilation required for the growth of wet and dry rot.
Wet rot requires a WMC above 20%, temperatures above 5°C, and poor ventilation.
155
What does cuboidal cracking indicate?
Cuboidal cracking indicates potential structural movement or settlement.
156
Where would you typically find wet rot?
Wet rot is typically found in damp, poorly ventilated areas like basements and bathrooms.
157
How can you report on rot?
Report on the type, extent, and recommended remediation for rot.
158
What is the difference between a cellar and a basement?
A cellar is primarily for storage, while a basement is often habitable space.
159
What trails of suspicion would you follow in a cellar or a basement?
Follow trails of moisture, mold, and structural distress.
160
What are some of the main types of wood-boring insect?
Types include woodworm, termites, and carpenter ants.
161
Explain how you would diagnose wood-boring insect infestation?
Diagnosis involves inspecting for frass, exit holes, and damaged wood.
162
What conditions encourage wood-boring insect infestation?
Conditions include damp wood, poor ventilation, and untreated timber.
163
What is frass?
Frass is the powdery waste produced by wood-boring insects.
164
How would you identify if wood-boring insect infestation is active?
Identify by checking for fresh frass, exit holes, and live insects.
165
When would replacement of structural timbers be required following wood-boring insect infestation?
Replacement is required when timbers are significantly weakened or compromised.
166
What other remedies are available?
Other remedies include chemical treatments and preventative measures.
167
What other types of pest might you find in a building?
Pests may include rodents, insects, and birds.
168
What health & safety risks relate to pigeons?
Pigeons can carry diseases and their droppings can cause structural damage.
169
What advice could you give on bird nuisance?
Advise on prevention measures like netting and spikes to deter birds.
170
What are potential signs of rodent infestation?
Signs include droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting materials.
171
How can you identify signs of bats and what advice would you give as a result?
Signs include droppings and noise; advise on legal protections and safe removal.
172
What legislation relates to bats and how do they affect you as a surveyor?
Legislation protects bats, requiring surveys to avoid disturbance during nesting.
173
Can you enter part of a property where there is evidence to suggest it is the roost or hibernation site of bats?
No, entry is prohibited without proper permissions and assessments.
174
How could you identify damage due to masonry bees?
Identify by checking for small holes and damage on masonry surfaces.
175
What remedial action could be taken?
Remedial action may include sealing holes and monitoring for further activity.
176
What advice would you give if you saw creepers or climbing plants on a building?
Advise on removal and monitoring to prevent damage to the structure.
177
What is Technical Due Diligence (TDD)?
TDD is a comprehensive assessment of a property's condition and compliance.
178
What RICS guidance relates to TDD?
RICS provides guidance on best practices for conducting TDD assessments.
179
What is the purpose of TDD?
The purpose is to identify risks and inform decision-making regarding property investments.
180
How can TDD assist in risk management?
TDD helps identify potential issues before they escalate, mitigating financial risks.
181
When might a TDD be carried out?
A TDD may be carried out during property transactions, renovations, or portfolio assessments.
182
What types of roofs are you aware of?
Types include pitched, flat, and green roofs.
183
How do these differ between traditional and modern buildings?
Traditional roofs may use slate or tile, while modern roofs may incorporate synthetic materials.
184
Explain your understanding of the adequacy of timber rafters.
Adequate timber rafters must support roof loads and resist deformation.
185
What issues relate to timber roof purlins / ceiling ties or joists / roof alterations?
Issues may include inadequate support, deterioration, and compliance with building regulations.
186
Explain types of pitched roof coverings you are aware of.
Types include slate, tile, and metal coverings.
187
Explain a building defect associated with one of these and how you would diagnose it.
A defect may include slipped tiles; diagnose by inspecting for alignment and damage.
188
What is sarking felt or underlay?
Sarking felt is a moisture barrier installed beneath roof coverings.
189
How should roof coverings be fixed down appropriately?
Roof coverings should be secured with appropriate fasteners and techniques to prevent wind uplift.
190
What is spray foam insulation and what issues relate to it?
Spray foam insulation can create moisture traps and may lead to structural issues.
191
What issues relate to roofs that have been recovered?
Recovered roofs may have inadequate drainage and hidden defects.
192
Is Building Regulations approval required for a replacement roof?
Yes, Building Regulations approval is typically required for replacement roofs.
193
Explain a building defect associated with a chimney stack.
Defects may include cracking or leaning, indicating structural issues.
194
Explain how a roof can be thermally insulated.
Thermal insulation can be added in the roof space or as part of the roof covering.
195
What is the difference between a cold and warm roof?
A cold roof has ventilation above insulation, while a warm roof has insulation above the roof deck.
196
How, when, and why should a roof be ventilated?
A roof should be ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, typically during construction.
197
What defects can be related to loft conversions?
Defects may include inadequate support, poor insulation, and compliance issues.
198
Explain the relationship of the Building Regulations to loft conversions.
Building Regulations ensure safety, structural integrity, and compliance in loft conversions.
199
What are common defects associated with flat roofs?
Common defects include ponding water, leaks, and membrane deterioration.
200
What type of flat roof coverings are you aware of?
Types include felt, EPDM, and PVC membranes.
201
What issues relate to valley construction?
Issues may include inadequate drainage and potential for leaks.
202
What defects might you find in relation to windows or doors?
Defects may include misalignment, rot, and inadequate sealing.
203
What action can be taken to remedy rotten timber windows?
Remedy by replacing affected timber and applying protective coatings.
204
What are signs of rain penetration around windows or doors?
Signs include water stains, mold growth, and peeling paint.
205
What type of windows might suffer from excessive condensation?
Single-glazed windows are more prone to excessive condensation.
206
What does ‘functional performance’ mean in relation to windows and doors?
Functional performance refers to the ability of windows and doors to operate effectively.
207
What standards would you look for in relation to replacement windows?
Look for compliance with building regulations and energy efficiency standards.
208
What defects might you identify in relation to a conservatory?
Defects may include leaks, poor insulation, and structural issues.
209
What structural failures might occur in load-bearing partitions?
Failures may include sagging, cracking, and collapse.
210
What inspection indicators would suggest a failed load-bearing partition?
Indicators include visible cracks, misalignment, and signs of movement.
211
What issues might relate to a blocked fireplace?
Blocked fireplaces can lead to smoke buildup and potential fire hazards.
212
Why would a chimney be capped?
A chimney may be capped to prevent water ingress and animal entry.
213
Should a disused chimney breast be ventilated – if so, why?
Yes, to prevent moisture buildup and deterioration.
214
Explain issues relating to the removal of a chimney breast.
Removal can affect structural integrity and requires proper support.
215
What structural support should be provided if a chimney breast is removed?
Provide adequate lintels or beams to support the remaining structure.
216
Is Building Regulations approval required for the removal of a chimney breast?
Yes, Building Regulations approval is typically required.
217
What type of lower / upper floor construction are you aware of?
Types include timber, concrete, and suspended floors.
218
What typical defects might you find in a timber / solid concrete floor / suspended concrete floor / upper floor?
Defects may include sagging, cracking, and moisture damage.
219
When and why is ventilation essential in relation to sub floors?
Ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup and decay in sub floors.
220
Why might joist ends suffer from wood rot?
Joist ends may suffer from wood rot due to moisture exposure and poor ventilation.
221
Where might you find a concrete upper floor?
Concrete upper floors are commonly found in modern buildings and commercial properties.
222
What types of ceiling are you aware of?
Types include plasterboard, suspended, and vaulted ceilings.
223
Which may carry a health & safety risk?
Suspended ceilings may carry risks if not properly installed or maintained.
224
What is lathe and plaster?
Lathe and plaster is a traditional method of wall and ceiling construction.
225
Why might plasterboard fail?
Plasterboard may fail due to moisture exposure or structural movement.
226
What is dot and dab?
Dot and dab is a method of fixing plasterboard to walls using adhesive.
227
Explain issues relating to sound insulation and how sufficient levels can be achieved.
Issues include noise transmission; achieve sufficient levels through proper materials and construction.
228
How is fire resistance provided in dwellings?
Fire resistance is provided through materials and design that limit fire spread.
229
In what type of building is fire resistance particularly important to consider?
Fire resistance is particularly important in multi-story and commercial buildings.
230
What defects relate to staircases?
Defects may include inadequate support, misalignment, and wear.
231
What are some of the basic requirements for a safe staircase?
Basic requirements include proper rise and run, handrails, and non-slip surfaces.
232
What are Type A, B, and C in relation to waterproofing for rooms below the ground?
Type A is barrier protection, Type B is structural protection, and Type C is drained protection.
233
What issues relate to garages or outbuildings / retaining walls / drives / paths / patios / decking / steps?
Issues may include drainage problems, structural integrity, and material degradation.
234
What types of foundations are you aware of and when might these be used?
Types include strip, pad, and piled foundations, used based on soil conditions and load requirements.
235
What is strap pointing and what issues relate to its use?
Strap pointing is a masonry technique that can trap moisture if not done correctly.
236
Explain issues relating to the use of calcium silicate bricks.
Calcium silicate bricks can be prone to moisture absorption and efflorescence.
237
What issues relate to the use of lead in buildings?
Lead can pose health risks and may require careful handling and disposal.
238
Can you explain what a 'hammer test' for concrete is and how might you undertake it?
A hammer test assesses concrete soundness by tapping with a hammer and listening for resonance.
