Building Surveyor’s Diary

“The Hidden Risks” explores real-life cases where surveyors overlooked crucial structural issues, leading to costly consequences for homeowners. From subsidence to hidden defects, we dive into infamous negligence cases, the science behind structural movement, and how a holistic approach, like that of SurveyAll, can help mitigate risks. We also discuss the limitations of property surveys, the role...

In this episode of  Surveying Matters , we dive into a cautionary tale from the RICS disciplinary hearings, The Case of Nicholas Prinse and Prinsegate Ltd . We explore how failing to uphold professional standards can have serious consequences, from misleading clients to facing expulsion from RICS. This discussion highlights the importance of integrity, and maintaining a strong professional reputat...

A massive sinkhole in Surrey has once again raised concerns about hidden ground risks across the UK. In this episode, we explore why sinkholes happen, where they are most common, and whether surveys can detect them before disaster strikes.

In this episode, we explore the challenges of hiring builders in the UK. Many agreements are made verbally, often leading to disputes over unfinished or poor-quality work. We explore the legal standing of verbal contracts, practical steps homeowners can take to protect themselves, and what legal options exist if things go wrong. From small claims court cases to successful compensation claims, we p...

A deep dive into the High Court case that exposed the risks of unprepared expert witnesses. Why did a top surveyor face judicial criticism, and what does it teach us about credibility, cross-examination, and the true role of an expert witness in court?

The £32.5M Moth Infestation: When Selling a Mansion Comes Back to Bite. Patarkatsishvili v Woodward-Fisher civil case.

For many homeowners and buyers, the appeal of a property often comes down to location, design, and potential. But beneath the surface, hidden defects can often turn into costly surprises. The latest English Housing Survey (2023-24) highlights some of the most common and expensive issues affecting UK homes, reinforcing the importance of understanding a property’s condition before making a financial...

Welcome to  The Mysterious Bathroom , where condensation meets chaos! This episode dives into a real damp and mould survey of a terraced property in London, uncovering how poor ventilation, high humidity, and a hidden airbrick are causing serious moisture issues in the loft. From thermal imaging to mouldy rafters, we explore the findings and the best solutions to tackle this growing problem. If yo...