Survey details

Postwar Property

Survey in Cowbridge

This post-war ex-council property is of traditional cavity wall construction, typical of its era. Homes of this type are generally robust but can be prone to localised movement and moisture ingress if routine maintenance has been limited.

Archwise carried out a full Level 2 Building Survey, identifying areas where penetrating damp is beginning to develop and noting typical minor movement to the outer leaf, both of which are common in cavity wall construction of this age. Practical maintenance measures were outlined to help the property perform as intended.

Project: Level 2 Survey
Project Date: June 7th, 2025

Artex ceilings

Textured ceiling coatings of the Artex type were noted in several rooms. Coatings of this kind applied before the late 1990s may contain small amounts of asbestos, as its use in such decorative finishes was only fully prohibited in 1999. The surfaces appear intact and undisturbed, which is generally considered safe in normal occupancy conditions.

Where a smoother finish is desired in future, options such as over-boarding with plasterboard or applying a skim coat can encapsulate the existing surface without the need for disruptive removal. Any works that might break the surface should only be undertaken by a competent contractor following appropriate precautions.

Damp to cavity wall

Damp staining was noted within the cavity wall, and the insulation present appears to be a wool type. This type of insulation can hold moisture if the cavity becomes wet, slowing the drying process and increasing the risk of damp transfer to internal finishes.

A vent opening to the exterior was observed, likely created for investigation or ventilation purposes. Once the affected area has fully dried and moisture levels have stabilised, this opening should be sealed to restore the integrity of the cavity and reduce future moisture ingress.

Pozi joints (an early example)

The floor structure features an early form of Pozi-joist, identifiable by the metal webbed design between the timber chords. This type of joist offers good spanning capability and allows for easier service runs but relies on all metal connections remaining secure to perform correctly.

No immediate concerns were noted, but as with any engineered floor system, future alterations or notching should be avoided, and any work affecting the joists should be carried out with care to maintain their structural integrity.

Wasp infestation to roofspace

Two active wasp nests were identified within the roof space. Activity was visible around the eaves, and the nests appear to be currently in use. While this is not uncommon in roof voids, access and any maintenance work in this area should be avoided until the nests have been professionally treated.

Once inactive, the nests can be safely removed, and it would be sensible to check for any gaps or openings in the eaves or ventilation points that may allow future access. Preventative sealing and mesh ventilation guards can help minimise repeat activity in future seasons.

Binders/purlins removed without consideration

A section of purlin has been removed from the truss roof to accommodate the installation of a rooflight (Velux-style), and no additional strengthening was noted to the top or bottom chords of the truss to compensate for the loss of support. This has locally weakened the roof structure and may reduce its ability to evenly distribute loads across the rafters.

Best practice in such alterations is to introduce suitable trimming and reinforcement to maintain the original structural performance of the truss. It would be advisable to have this detail reviewed and upgraded by a competent contractor to ensure long-term stability of the roof.

Book your
Home Survey today

Get a quote today

Our Strategies

We provide clear surveys that highlight the true condition of a property. Our reports are straightforward and focused on what matters most to buyers and owners.

Our Challenges

Older buildings and modern homes each present unique issues. We take on hidden defects and complex property concerns so clients can move forward with confidence.

Our Success

Success is when clients feel informed and secure in their decision. Our surveys have helped buyers avoid costly surprises and negotiate with clarity.

Testimonial

Amanda Jones

Stokes Croft, Bristol

" Archwise provided a thorough and professional survey that gave us complete peace of mind when buying our first home. Their clear explanations, attention to detail and practical advice made the whole process stress-free. "