Specific Defect Analysis
Focused inspection and advice on a particular defect or concern within a property.
What is a Specific Defect Analysis?
A Specific Defect Analysis is a targeted inspection undertaken to investigate a particular concern within a property. This may include issues such as cracking, dampness, roof defects or other visible problems that require further professional consideration.
The aim of the inspection is to identify the likely cause of the defect, assess its significance and provide clear, independent advice on potential repair options or whether further investigation by a specialist may be required.
Suitable for:
This type of inspection may be appropriate where a particular concern has been identified and a more focused inspection is required to better understand the issue.
Examples may include:
- Cracking to walls or ceilings.
- Signs of dampness or moisture ingress.
- Roof defects or water penetration.
- Concerns regarding previous alterations or workmanship.
- Movement or distortion within the building.
May not be suitable for:
- Buying a new home – when you need an overview of the whole building’s condition.
- A “top-to-bottom” check – if you want to identify all potential risks, not just one.
- General maintenance planning – when looking for a long-term service schedule.
- Property valuations – if you only need to know what the house is worth.
- Legal or boundary disputes – where the issue is about land ownership, not structures.
- New build “snagging” – when you need a list of minor cosmetic finishing touches.
More Details
Independent, focused advice
A Specific Defect Analysis is intended to provide independent advice on a particular issue affecting the property. We do not carry out repair work or sell additional services, so the advice provided is focused solely on identifying the likely cause of the defect, assessing its significance and recommending appropriate next steps.
The inspection is visual and non-invasive. Where the cause of a defect cannot be confirmed without opening up the structure, this will be explained clearly together with advice on any further investigation that may be appropriate.
Where specialist input is required, such as from a structural engineer or other relevant professional, this will be recommended as part of the advice provided.
Access and limitations
A Specific Defect Analysis is based on the areas that are visible and reasonably accessible at the time of the inspection. If a defect relates to a concealed part of the building, such as a floor void, roof void or hidden structural element, the ability to provide firm conclusions may be limited unless suitable access has been made available in advance.
Where more intrusive investigation is required, this would normally need to be arranged before the inspection. For example, floorboards may need to be lifted to expose hidden timbers, or coverings removed to allow the relevant area to be properly assessed.
Arrange a Specific Defect Analysis
If you have concerns about a particular issue within a property and would like professional advice, please get in touch with details of the defect and the property location.
We will review your enquiry and confirm whether a Specific Defect Analysis would be appropriate.