Derbyshire Chamber member The Association of building engineers

CONTRACT

Civil Engineering and Tunnelling Contractors often require Pre-Works Condition Surveys, to provide for protection against spurious claims for alleged damage. CPM Surveys have over 15 years of direct experience in this field of expertise.

What is a Property Condition Survey?

A Property Condition Survey provides a record of the condition of a property prior to major construction works. Surveys are performed on properties adjacent to tunnel alignment, dewatering areas, deep excavations and areas adjacent to demolition/blasting works. The survey consists of a thorough visual inspection producing a detailed record of the condition of the building.

How Are Property Condition Surveys Conducted?

Fully qualified members of CPM Surveys undertake the inspection. The survey is undertaken on a room by room basis, detailing any defects found in the various elements of the structure and finishes. In a similar way the external condition of the building and surrounding hard standing is accessed and recorded. Photographs are taken to further illustrate discovered defects.

The surveys are based on readily accessible and visually assessed areas of the building. Structural elements hidden behind fixtures may not be accessible.

A single report is produced for each building, and an overall assessment of the building's condition is made.

A return visit is made at the completion of the project to assess any changes to the property's condition. Should damage from vibration or ground movement be discovered then these will be readily identified.

The Benefits of Property Condition Surveys

The most obvious benefit of undertaking a condition survey on a property in one of protection. In today's litigious society, the "claim culture" prevails and contractors often find themselves trying to defend claims for damage which they believe they have not caused. The cost of defending such claims can be high, with no guarantee of winning.

A property condition survey undertaken prior to any works being carried out will eliminate any uncertainty, thereby reducing the costs arising from the claim. It will enable spurious claims to be refuted and legitimate damage identified without accepting adjacent areas of previous damage.

The second benefit of a property condition survey is that a qualified CPM Survey member will visit the property before the works start and identify any potential instability in the structure. This will give the main contractor time to undertake any mitigation measures necessary to prevent a potential tragedy.

One unseen benefit of a condition survey is not in the survey itself but in the field of Public Relations. A major construction project next to somebody's property will often naturally result in anxiety, concern and suspicion on the part of the householder. Public meetings and explanatory leaflets do not always go the full mile to satisfy these third parties. CPM Surveys' members are well versed in dealing with the public and ten minutes talking to the householders in the comfort of their own home, outlining the project and allaying any fears often helps to take the heat out of the situation.

Previous & Ongoing Contracts

Client List