Identify and resolve property defects with confidence
Defect Analysis
“Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or landlord, understanding a property defect is essential to making informed decisions about repairs, maintenance, or potential purchases.”
What is Defect Analysis?
Defect analysis involves a thorough inspection of your property to identify any faults, weaknesses, or damage that could affect its condition or value. Common issues include:
Structural problems such as cracks or subsidence
Damp, mold, or water ingress
Roofing defects or broken tiles
Plumbing, heating, or drainage system issues
Electrical hazards or outdated wiring
Our expert surveyors deliver a comprehensive assessment, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the severity and implications of any issues found.
Example heavy cracking at a residential property
Chimney Defects
Chimneys are particularly exposed to weathering and are a common source of structural and maintenance issues. Common defects include leaning stacks, eroded mortar joints, cracked flaunching, defective leadwork, and vegetation growth – all of which can lead to damp ingress, instability, or falling debris.
Render Defects
Render systems are often used to improve a property’s appearance or weather resistance, but when defects occur, they can be both unsightly and damaging. Common issues include cracking, staining, delamination, and distortion – especially where Magnesium Oxide (MgO) boards have been used as a backing system.
Roof Defects
Roof coverings are a key line of defence against water ingress and deterioration. Common issues include slipped or broken tiles, weathered coverings, poor past repairs, moss growth, and inadequate detailing around chimneys or valleys.
Mould Issues
Mould growth is typically a symptom of underlying moisture or ventilation problems, not just a housekeeping issue. It’s often linked to condensation, cold bridging, poor insulation, or restricted airflow, and can have serious implications for health, comfort, and mortgageability.
Brick Failure
Brickwork is designed to be durable, but issues can arise from age, moisture, poor detailing, or previous repairs. Common defects include spalling bricks, eroded mortar joints, frost damage, and vegetation growth – all of which can compromise the wall’s strength and weather resistance.
Damp Issues
Damp is one of the most frequently reported problems in buildings – and one of the most misunderstood. From rising damp and penetrating moisture to condensation-related issues, each type requires a different diagnostic approach and remedial strategy.
Our Approach
Step 1 - Client Consultation
We begin with a consultation to understand your concerns and gather background information about the defect. This allows us to learn how and when the issue first arose, review any previous repair history, and ensure we focus our inspection on the areas most relevant to you.
Step 2 - On-Site Inspection
A suitably qualified surveyor visits the property to conduct a detailed examination of the structure, systems, and finishes. The location, severity, and evidence of the defect are carefully recorded, supported by photographs taken during the inspection.
Step 3 - Detailed Reporting
Following the inspection, we prepare a structured, easy-to-understand report. This doesn’t just highlight what’s wrong, but explains why the defect has occurred and how best to address it.
The report will:
Identified Defects – a clear description of the issues, supported by photographs taken on site.
Potential Causes – an explanation of the likely reasons behind the defect, whether related to design, construction methods, poor maintenance, or environmental factors.
Consequences if Left Unrepaired – outlining the risks of inaction, including potential safety issues, further deterioration, or increased future costs.
Recommended Remedial Actions – practical advice on the type of repairs or specialist input needed to resolve the issue.
Prioritisation of Urgent Repairs – guidance on which matters need immediate attention, and which may be addressed over the medium to longer term.
Next Steps – optional recommendations for obtaining quotes, liaising with contractors, or arranging follow-up inspections where necessary.
Step 4 - Support and Advice
Once you’ve received the report, our involvement doesn’t stop there. We remain available to guide you through the findings and help you take the right next steps.
This stage could include:
Follow-up discussion – talking you through the report in plain English, ensuring you fully understand the nature of the defect and the options available.
Tailored advice – highlighting the most cost-effective or practical solutions, taking into account your budget, timescales, and long-term plans for the property.
Contractor engagement – helping you obtain quotations from reliable contractors or specialists, and advising on which proposals best meet the recommendations in the report.
Project support – should you wish, we can oversee the works through our Contract Administration service, from tendering and contractor appointment through to monitoring and sign-off.
Future planning – identifying potential maintenance issues or recurring risks so that you can plan ahead and avoid repeat problems.
Our aim at this stage is to give you peace of mind, ensuring that the defect is not only understood but properly resolved with the right professional oversight.
Why choose Navah Consulting?
Expertise you can trust.
Our RICS-qualified surveyors have extensive experience with a broad range of property types and their associated defects.
Clear, actionable insights.
Our reports provide you with the information you need to act confidently.
Tailored solutions.
Every property is unique, and so is our approach. We adapt to your specific concerns and goals.
Navah Consulting - Surveying Made Simple
Frequently Asked Questions
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Defect analysis is the process of identifying, diagnosing, and providing recommendations for repairing issues in a property. These defects may include structural problems, damp, cracks, or issues with roofing, plumbing, or electrical systems.
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You may need a defect analysis survey if:
You notice visible issues like cracks, damp patches, or structural instability.
You are purchasing a property with concerns raised in a survey or valuation.
You are dealing with persistent maintenance problems that require expert investigation.
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A defect analysis survey involves:
A detailed inspection of the affected areas by a qualified surveyor.
Identifying the root cause of the problem.
Providing a detailed report with recommendations for repairs and prevention.
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Yes, a defect analysis report can provide the detailed evidence needed to support an insurance claim.
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Yes, a defect analysis not only identifies current problems but also provides advice on preventative maintenance to avoid similar issues in the future.
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You may need a defect analysis if you notice:
Cracks in walls or ceilings.
Persistent damp or mold growth.
Uneven floors or doors that no longer fit properly.
Leaks or water pooling.
Peeling paint or wallpaper.
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Navah Consulting aims to provide all services in a straightforward, efficient and client-focused manner. We understand the importance of providing reports and services in a concise, jargon-free format, in a quick time frame. See what our clients are saying about us and our work.