Buildings Behaving Badly (Acoustics).
By Alan Saunders of Alan Saunders Associates.
Approved Document Part E (Resistance to the passage of sound) of the Building Regulations 2003. 95% Compliance in less than 7 years: What’s next? Previous versions of this document were flawed and not vigorously enforced and some of the ‘deemed to satisfy’ constructions didn’t work very well. Since there was no requirement for sound insulation testing upon completion, there was some very poor workmanship in the residential housing market. ADE 2003 introduced pre completion testing for conversions and for new build properties in 2004. The Association of Noise Consultants proposed a testing scheme to the Government which was approved by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. This paper describes the scheme and its implementation.
Air Conditioning Energy Assessments.
By Adrian Ogden of CPl.
The paper will cover the legislative requirements, implementation and enforcement, based on the EU Performance directive. What are the benefits and how does an inspection result in energy savings? A practical look at how an inspection can provide energy saving information that has a tangible payback. Case study of an inspection, which provides useful information on what to look for when accessing the efficiency of air conditioning systems.
Party Wall Pitfalls.
By John Hughes of The John Hughes Law Practice.
This paper is a Lawyer’s view of the Party Wall etc Act 1996 presented with reference to a number of case studies from the last few years. It will cover: Origins of the legislation; When and to what does the Party Wall etc. Act apply; The award - what can Party Wall Surveyors do, and not do; Rights of access; Costs and expenses - who pays and for what?; Appeals to the County Court; Consequences of ignoring the Act - the Court process.
Modern Methods of Masonry Repair.
By James Plaskett of Helifix.
This paper aims to educate the specifier in the common causes of masonry failure and how such structural faults can be reliably repaired and strengthened. It also addresses the benefits of concealed non-disruptive repair methods with regard to cost effectiveness, aesthetic impact, project timescales and design implications.
Treating Buildings after Water Damage.
By Andrew Bussey of Smithers Purslow (Chartered Surveyor).
Andrew Bussey fronts the Chartered Surveying team at Smithers Purslow who provide specialist services looking at buildings damaged by water (flooding, damp penetration and burst pipes). This presentation will cover a number of case studies, starting with the initial examination and interaction with the involved parties followed by discussion of the requirement to strip back to the optimum level. Drying processes and certification will then be described before an explanation of appropriate repair processes to buildings, including methods to leave them more robust to any future damage should it ever occur. The session will conclude by looking at typical projects that have gone wrong and defects that ensue if properties are not treated correctly.
The Challengers of Carrying Out Restoration Work on old Structures.
By Bob Bennett MBE.
This paper covers a number of case examples encountered by Bob Bennett over a long career of working with old buildings and in particular the careful approach needed when dealing with traditional lime mortar verses modern concrete. Case examples will also include the cleaning of ancient stone work in Winchester Cathedral without damaging historic wall paintings; removal of bitumen from the copper covering on the Statue of Liberty; removal of paint from the Stone Henge monument.
Structural Inspection of a 1920s Admiralty Jetty.
By Colin Feltham (Chartered Engineer).
This paper outlines the approach taken to plan a structural inspection for an usual requirement. The brief from the client will be discussed followed by method statement and risk assessment. Initial inspection and the possibility of using internet mapping sites. Structural evaluation and consideration of the need for computer analysis. Building Regulations and British Standard Codes of Practice and Eurocodes. Insitu testing, intrusive testing and laboratory sampling. Assistance on site and the risk of working alone. The provision of budget costing for remedial or improvement works.
Managing the Client (Managing Construction & Engineering Projects).
By Peter Webster of THEA Solicitors (Solicitor).
Peter Webster is a solicitor and mediator who has specialised in construction and engineering law since he qualified in 1999. His talk will be aimed at surveyors, architects and engineers who have to manage clients as part of a professional team (whether the lead or otherwise), or as contract administrator on a small job. The client may or may not be an owner or occupier of the building, and may or may not be in a direct contractual and/or personal relationship with the professional. Peter will illustrate the challenges of client management from cases he has been involved in, under six headings: 1. unusual material (rammed earth); 2. unusual constraints (hospital ‘heating season’); 3. unusual conditions (subsidence and party walls); 4. unusual contract (client’s attempt to dictate working times); 5. unusual client (lay person left big property in will in need of development); 6. unusual weather (engineering against wind causing cladding to clatter). There will be an opportunity to share stories of your own challenging clients and to ask questions at the end.
Asbestos Awareness Training Course.
By Alec Smith of Artisan Surveyors.
This course is a key element for any individual who may come into contact with asbestos containing materials (ACMs) through their line of work. These individuals include building services managers, electricians, engineers, all tradesmen and many more. There is a legal duty for employers to ensure that their staff all have sufficient training to ensure that they do not become exposed to asbestos fibres.
Attendance on this course will help employers to meet this requirement by explaining the effects of asbestos on the health of individuals, the types of material likely to contain asbestos, the location of these materials within buildings, and procedures for minimising the risk of asbestos fibre release.
Overview of the Party Wall Act.
By Alex Frame.
Overview of the Party Wall Act followed by a presentation of many of the common misunderstandings which occur when interpreting the Act in the application to real situations. In particular discussion of notices, line of junction-legal boundary issues, third surveyor selection and fees.
The Right To Light.
By Alastair Gill of Drivers Jonas Deloitte.
There is often confusion between daylight, sunlight and overshadowing studies for planning submissions and the common law right of light. This presentation will clarify the two separate processes. The first section will describe, with reference to the BRE document 'Site Layout Planning for Daylight and Sunlight: a Guide to Good Practice' when a daylight and sunlight analysis will be required and the format it takes. The second section will look at the statutes and case law relevant to rights of light, how rights of light are acquired and what impact they can have on the development of nearby properties.'
CDM (Construction Design & Management Regulations).
By Jill Thompson of JT Consulting.
This paper will cover: Objectives of CDM 2007, Structure of CDM 2007, The Trigger for Appointments, Role of the Client under CDM 2007, Role of the Designer under CDM 2007, Competency / Co-operation and Co-ordination.
Environmental Surveys (Bats etc).
By Lindsay Carrington of Lindsay Carrington Ecological Surveys.
Professionals working in planning and development related industries are increasingly encountering the requirement to consider the impacts of proposals on the ecology of and within the vicinity of a site (regarding bats, birds, insects etc). Initially the aspects of ecology such as protected species legislation, survey effort and mitigation schemes can seem difficult to negotiate within the planning process. This paper aims to explain why ecology needs to be considered in planning applications in terms of the governing legislation and policy and to provide an account of best practice in dealing with the most commonly encountered issues.
Waterproofing.
By Ian MacLennan of MacLennan-LSE.
This paper covers the implications of the British standards for structural waterproofing and how to avoid design liability whilst protecting the client’s interests. Also covered are the myths about waterproof concrete and the advantages of cavity drain systems. Asphalt and asbestos roof repairs, waterproof roof repairs and the latest ultimate deck and green roof systems.
Loft Conversions: The Good, The Bad And The Downright Scary.
By Ian Rock.
The Buildings Regulations for loft conversions have recently changed. Ian Rock MRICS, author of the Haynes Loft Conversion Manual, explains what's new, with a step-by-step case study showing how to convert a modern trussed rafter roof - arguably the most challenging type of roof. Ian also shows photos of botched jobs to send shivers down the spines of even the hardiest professionals.
Sustainable Construction: A Case Study of the ‘Monet’ Bridge.
By Chris Shaw, Consultant.
This paper is in two parts. The first part answers the question; Sustainability – What is it? The second part is a case study of a ‘Monet’ style bridge built over a river. The construction of this bridge was carefully planned using state of the art sustainable methods. Sustainability was the key requirement for the design, construction, maintenance and eventual removal of the bridge at the end of its life. Chris is a Chartered Civil and Structural Engineer who has used the sustainability techniques on building projects for many years.
Invasive Weeds: A Barrier to Development, Environmental Catastrophe or Manageable Nuisance?
By Alison Downer of Thurlow Countryside Management Ltd.
This paper reveals the dangers of allowing invasive weeds such as Japanese Knotweed to remain untreated. This can lead to damage to hard structures, public health issues and further liabilities can also be incurred if the plants are allowed to spread to adjacent properties. Current legislation, identification, effective methods of eradication and pitfalls are described, allowing the Property Professional to understand all pertinent issues when they encounter invasive weeds on sites on in the future.
Basment Waterproofing using Cavity Drain Membrane.
By Chris Burbridge of Delta Membranes.
For several decades the incorporation of Basements into residential schemes has been neglected. Today with increased land prices and shortages of large building plots the domestic Basement is now back in fashion. This paper demonstrates how modern basement waterproofing techniques can be employed to create dry usable basement spaces for both new build and refurbishment situations.
Earth Buildings and their Failures.
By Chris Shapland of Peninsula Properties.
Earth buildings were constructed on random rubble plinths, the plinths being constructed to a height of sufficiency to allow external and internal evaporation through breathable finishes. The more recent use of cement renders and non-breathable finishes often drives dampness into the base of the earth wall and this does on occasions produce catastrophic failures. This paper is illustrated with examples of building failures and gives guidance as to 'what to look for'.
Durability of Reinforced Concrete.
By Chris Shaw, Consultant.
Incorrect positioning of the reinforcement in concrete costs £550 million a year in the UK, and is a world wide problem. The strength, durability and fire resistance of the structure are adversely affected, resulting in premature failure. This paper shows the problem, the causes, and the solution. Chris is a Chartered Civil and Structural Engineer and developed the system to solve this problem now published as British Standard 7973.
Identifying Leaks in Flat Roofs.
By Tommy Tyrrell of RAM Consultancy.
Below a flat roof we can easily see the result of a leak in the waterproofing membrane but how do we find the actual leak? There are several testing techniques that can identify where rainwater may be entering. This paper gives an overview of the possibilities and the advantages and disadvantages.
The rise of geospatial data and access to environmental information from the internet - Impacts for the property professional.
By David Dixon of Land Mark.
Google Maps and Microsoft Live have made mapping familiar to us all. This paper looks at the impact of internet mapping, the sources and applications property professionals use mapping for now and what are the likely future developments. Barely a day goes by without the mention of the environment in the news. Professional bodies such as the Law Society and RICS produce guidance advising how their members should deal with the issues and advise their clients. We look here who is doing what currently and at what information can be ascertained easily from the internet and/or alternatively from the environmental market place.
Drainage CCTV Surveys.
By David Brewster of Auger Solutions
Drainage problems or subsidence often result in the need for a CCTV Survey. What are the situations where this can be a good option, how much can be achieved and what are the limitations? This paper gives a thorough overview of what is involved and what sort of results can be expected. David Brewster is a Structural Engineer and is Managing Director of Auger Solutions and Brewster Associates.
Does It Really Matter If There Is A Tree Near A Building?
By Chris Overbeke, OMC Associates.
Trees are commonly highlighted in building surveys for no other reason than the fact that they are there. As a result we lose a lot of trees where removal may not be necessary. This presentation examines some of the factors that determine whether trees really do pose potential threats to buildings. Chris has been an Arboriculturalist for 10 years as a Consultant and as a Local Government Officer.
Arches Over Openings.
By Chris Shaw, Consultant Engineer.
Arches are commonly used to span openings in the walls of buildings. This paper examines the different types of arches, their ability to provide structural support and their sensitivity to external events. A number of case studies are presented and a rule of thumb assessment is included. Chris Shaw is a Chartered Civil and Structural Engineer with many years of experience.
Boundary Disputes, Private Right of Way and Adverse Possession.
By Carl Calvert, Consultant.
The new Land Registration Act 2002 came into force on 13 October 2003 and the Land Registration Rules 2003 now apply. The questions that fall out of this are:
I have a Land Registry Filed Plan – does it really show me the legal boundary?
I occupy more land than shown on my Plan – is it mine?
My neighbour has a right of way over my land – how wide is that way?
The use of land surveying, mapping, photography and other documents is succinctly explained in this paper. Carl Calvert is a Chartered Land Surveyor and part-time university lecturer in law for Geographic Information Systems.
Conservatory Subsidence Problems.
By Mike Royall, ER Surveys.
Construction of most conservatories takes place without the need for conformance to building regulations. Many installers of conservatories carry out excellent work however some don’t. This paper looks at a number of case studies examining the problems that sometimes result and the solutions to these. Mike Royall is a Civil Engineer with a great deal of knowledge of conservatories and in particular associated subsidence.
Asbestos In Buildings.
By Jonathan Grant of Gully Howard
The HSE’s ‘Don’t Take the Gamble’ campaign, which is taking place between September and October, targets ‘dutyholders’ within the small and medium enterprise range and facilities management. The campaign demonstrates the HSE’s commitment to the ongoing management of asbestos. Using case studies this session will review current legislation, identify where asbestos-containing materials are typically found and highlight the difficulties in surveying a building for these materials.
Bricks and Brickwork.
By Kevin Gamble of Baggeridge Brick.
Long term durability of brickwork is dependant upon a number of factors. Choosing the correct brick and good detailing are key factors in ensuring that the brickwork remains attractive throughout it's design life. This paper looks at brick selection, brickwork design and detailing and highlights cause and remedial action for most common types of staining.
Lintels Over Openings.
By Chris Shaw, Consultant Engineer.
Lintels are commonly used to span openings in the walls of buildings. This paper examines the different types of materials used for lintels, their historical use and advantages / disadvantages, and the defects associated with lintels and their use. Chris Shaw is a Chartered Civil and Structural Engineer with many years of experience. This paper follows on from the paper on Arches given earlier in the year.
Condition Surveys of Historic Buildings.
By Stephen Bond of Tuffin Ferreby & Taylor
Condition surveys of historic buildings and sites often present the surveyor with different challenges to those experienced with other building types. Often the surveyor is confronted with materials, building elements and components that are in some way or another unusual or unexpected. Using a range of case studies, this session will look in a practical way at some of the potential pitfalls that may be encountered and seek to develop an appreciation of the art (and science) of surveying historic structures.
Woodworm Infestation and Fungal Decay.
By Tim Clarke of Timberwise
A wide range of insects and bacteria are constantly attacking the wood inside buildings. This paper gives an overview of the life cycles of beetle and fungal attack and goes on to show how decay and infestation presents itself in structures. Tips are given on how to identify the different species together with a discussion on the various courses of action that can be considered to eliminate the problem.
Timber in Historic Buildings.
By John Williams of TRADA.
In the restoration and maintenance of historic buildings special attention must be given to the timber components. Are they structural or non structural? Most old timber will have suffered some level of decay but is the timber still strong enough to do its job. Can it be preserved for reasons of conservation or does it need replacement in order to keep the building standing?
Avoiding Subsidence of Low Rise Buildings in Areas of Abandoned Mine Workings.
By Ian Caldwell, Caldwell Consulting.
The legacy of past mine working in the UK poses many problems to both brown field and green field sites. This paper discusses the history, geology, technical aspects and design solutions to overcome these problems. Ian Caldwell is a Chartered Engineer with years of experience of inspecting existing buildings and designing new structures.
Resolving the Challenges of Historic Sites.
By Bob Hill, Wessex Archaeology.
Building on historic sites can be fraught with difficulty if there is the possibility of archaeological remains. However, with the right approach the perceived problems can be turned into unique benefits. Bob Hill is a Chartered Surveyor with years of experience of advising on problems associated with historic sites and old buildings.
Damp in Historic Buildings.
By Bob Bennett MBE, The Lime Centre.
Old buildings often suffer with damp but it is seldom an historic problem. Alterations both internally and externally, using inappropriate materials, often create damp problems, as does raising flower beds or repointing a lime mortar wall with cement. Bob Bennett is a masonry consultant and co founder of the Building Limes Forum.