Roughcast - The No-Nonsense Building Surveying & Damp Podcast

Renovating your home can be a daunting task, often filled with unexpected challenges and stress. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of managing a renovation project, you're not alone. In this podcast, we’ll explore how Toby's project management app can transform your renovation experience, making it smoother and more efficient.

In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals find themselves at a crossroads regarding their careers, especially in the wake of significant global events like COVID-19. Max, a residential surveyor, shares his unique journey from the hospitality sector to the world of property surveying, illustrating the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. This is just a really honest Roughcast cha...

Welcome back to our podcast! Today, we’re excited to have Dr. Samantha Organ, a remarkable expert in building sustainability and surveying. With a rich background that spans academia and practical consultancy, Dr. Organ offers invaluable insights into navigating a career in surveying and the educational pathways that can lead you there. Dr. Samantha Organ is not just a name; she represents a wealt...

Starting a business can be daunting, especially in an industry as competitive as surveying. David, founder of Landview Surveyors, shares his journey from a one-man band to leading a team of 18. In this episode, we'll explore his insights on branding, social media, and the importance of personal touch in a crowded market.

When it comes to buying a home, one of the most significant challenges is navigating the mortgage process. Many potential homebuyers find themselves overwhelmed by the complexity and jargon involved. In this episode, we’ll break down the insights shared by Jack from We Are Mortgages in Essex, who has been in the mortgage industry since 2011. You’ll learn about the importance of seeking expert advi...

Learn how to enhance building survey efficiency with expert tips from Beyond Condition. Discover the advantages of modern solutions for surveyors. In the ever-evolving world of building surveys, the need for efficiency and accuracy is paramount. With traditional methods often proving cumbersome, many professionals are turning to innovative solutions. This episode will explore how the Beyond Condit...

Discover the essential insights on navigating renovations with architect Neil Hederman. Learn why understanding older properties matters for homeowners and industry professionals alike. As homeowners and industry professionals, renovations can often feel overwhelming. Whether you're looking to update an older property or build from scratch, understanding the nuances of architectural renovation...

This week on Roughcast, we sit down with Geoff Hunt for a genuinely insightful conversation about residential surveying, building pathology and what makes a good surveyor in the real world. Known by many surveyors for his mentoring, technical knowledge and straight-talking approach, Geoff shares his journey through the industry along with some brilliant advice for both experienced surveyors and th...

In this episode of Roughcast, we’re joined by experienced thatcher Chris Dodson to explore the practical realities of inspecting and maintaining thatched roofs. This episode is essential listening for surveyors, property professionals, and homeowners dealing with period properties, offering clear guidance on what can realistically be assessed during a non-invasive inspection and when specialist in...

In this episode of Roughcast, we’re joined by retrofit coordinator Lee Brace to talk about what really happens when energy efficiency targets meet real buildings. We get into the reality behind PAS 2035, the role of a retrofit coordinator, and why a “whole house approach” isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds, especially when dealing with older, traditional properties. The conversation quic...

In this episode of Roughcast , it’s just Adam and Daniel back on the mics putting the surveying world to rights. No guests, no filter… just honest chat about damp diagnosis, common site issues, and the kind of “expert opinions” you see online that make you question everything. Expect real-world experiences, a few industry rants, and plenty of laughs along the way. If you’re a building surveyor, pr...

Mortgage underwriter and newly qualified residential surveyor Alex Harvey joins the Roughcast Podcast to discuss breaking into the property industry, completing the SAVA Level 6 Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation, and the reality of transitioning from finance into surveying. We explore the differences between underwriting and surveying, qualifications vs real-world experience, and what...

In this episode of Roughcast , we’re joined by Stephen Boniface, co-founder of BEST Training and a leading voice in building conservation, heritage buildings, and listed property surveying. With decades of experience in building surveying, Stephen shares how he got into the industry and how his career evolved from modern property into working with older and historic buildings. We dive into: The ke...

In this episode of Roughcast , we’re joined by Dave Smith of Smith Heritage Surveyors to talk all things heritage buildings. Dave shares his experience working on heritage properties, the importance of understanding how buildings were originally designed to perform, and how poor interventions can create long-term issues. We also touch on industry standards, honest reporting, and the challenges sur...

Are we getting old buildingscompletely wrong? In this episode of Roughcast, we’re joined by engineer,conservation specialist, and founder of Expertible, Rich Alesbury , and this one goes deeper than most. Because the reality is that too many buildings are being“repaired” using the wrong methods, the wrong materials, and sometimes by people who don’t fully understand how traditional buildings actua...

Damp Q&A + Level 2 vs Level 3 Surveys Explained In this episode of Roughcast , it’s just Adam and Daniel answering your questions on damp, surveying and common building issues. We cover the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 surveys, how damp is often misinterpreted, and what to actually look for when diagnosing problems. A more relaxed episode with plenty of honest insights and a few laug...

Is Rising Damp Over Diagnosed? – With Neil Marsden Description: In this episode of Roughcast , we’re joined by Neil Marsden to talk about rising damp and whether it’s one of the most misdiagnosed issues in buildings. We cover: Rising damp vs other moisture sources Damp proof courses and when they’re needed Common surveying mistakes Building pathology in older properties We also discuss why damp tr...

Surveying Industry Changes & Real Experience – With George In this episode of Roughcast , we’re joined by George to discuss his experience in the surveying industry and how things are changing. We cover how surveying has evolved, challenges faced in the industry, and how approaches to building defects and damp diagnosis are shifting. An honest conversation about real-world surveying and the di...

The State of the Surveying Industry – With Joe In the first episode of Roughcast , we’re joined by Joe to talk about the surveying industry as a whole. We cover how the industry is evolving, common issues in surveying, and where things are going wrong when it comes to diagnosing building defects. A great starting point for anyone in surveying or construction, with honest opinions, real experiences...