There are times when a full property survey is not the most efficient or cost-effective tool for the job. You may already own your home and have noticed a worrying crack in the kitchen extension, or perhaps your Level 2 survey recommended further investigation into a damp patch.
This is where Howorth & Co’s Defect Analysis comes into play. Think of it as a “surgical strike” on a single building problem.
What Is a Specific Defect Analysis Report?
Unlike a Level 2 or Level 3 survey, which considers the whole building, a Defect Analysis focuses entirely on one issue — or a small set of related issues.
We use our 30 years of property knowledge to act as building pathologists, diagnosing the root cause rather than simply describing symptoms.
The Most Common Issues We Diagnose
1. The “mystery” crack: Not all cracks are created equal. We differentiate between settlement, which is the natural adjustment of a building, and subsidence, which is a foundation failure.
We analyse the width, direction and location of cracking to determine whether you need a structural engineer — or simply a decorator. In the clay-heavy soils of North London and Surrey, this distinction can be worth thousands of pounds.
2. Persistent and complex damp: Damp is one of the most frequently misdiagnosed defects in the UK. Homeowners often receive conflicting quotes from damp-proofing companies that have a financial interest in selling expensive chemical DPC systems. Howorth & Co is independent.
We use moisture meters and thermal imaging to trace the source, whether it is a leaking internal pipe, a bridged damp-proof course, or interstitial condensation. We provide a roadmap for repair that actually works.
3. Roof and chimney failures: Roof defects are often overlooked because they are difficult to access. We use drone technology and high-powered optics to inspect chimney stacks, flashing and tiling. If you are experiencing a leak, we identify the exact entry point — saving you from the roofer’s default recommendation of a complete (and often unnecessary) replacement.
The Howorth & Co Advantage: Professional Impartiality
Our brand mantra of Ethics means we have no “skin in the game” when it comes to repairs. We do not sell building services; we sell expert advice.
When you receive a Howorth & Co Defect Analysis Report, you are getting an unbiased, RICS-qualified opinion that you can take to any contractor to ensure the work is done correctly the first time.
“Do it right, do it once” is our philosophy.