Specialised Surveys & Assessments

Providing Specialised Building Surveys and Assessments

There are a number of situations where specialised surveys and assessments become essential, extending beyond the scope of standard building or structural surveys.

These bespoke evaluations are often required to address unique property concerns, resolve disputes, or provide insights into areas that demand advanced expertise and cutting-edge technology. At Jaram Associates, we bring over 30 years of experience in building surveying, offering tailored services that deliver accurate, actionable results to property owners, developers, and other stakeholders.

Expert Property Assessments

At Jaram Associates, we provide a range of specialised surveys and assessments to address specific property needs. Our services include, but are not limited to:

• Party Wall Surveyors:

  As experts in the Party Wall Act 1996, we provide impartial advice to property owners, developers, and adjoining parties, ensuring compliance and resolving disputes effectively. Party wall surveys are not just a survey, they are a legal process that settles disputes between owners of adjacent buildings. We have dealt with Party wall disputes since the act's inception in 1996, producing awards for public and private owners.

• Defect Specific Structural Surveys:

  We assess the structural integrity of buildings, uncovering potential issues before they become costly or hazardous.

• Drone Surveys:

  Using drone footage, we capture high-resolution imagery and data, ideal for inspecting inaccessible areas such as rooftops, facades, or large structures.

Specialised Surveys & Assessments FAQs

How do you incorporate drones into the building survey process?

Drones are an invaluable tool for surveying hard-to-reach areas, such as rooftops, tall structures, or expansive properties. When direct access is impractical or unsafe, drones provide a safe, efficient, and cost-effective solution. Equipped with high-resolution cameras they capture detailed imagery enabling precise assessments without the need for scaffolding, ladders, or heavy equipment. At Jaram Associates, we integrate drone technology seamlessly into our survey processes, ensuring that even the most inaccessible areas are thoroughly inspected. This approach not only enhances accuracy but also minimises disruption to your property or operations. The data collected is then analysed to provide actionable insights, helping identify issues such as structural damage, weathering, or maintenance needs that may otherwise go unnoticed.

What happens if damp is coming from a party wall?

If damp is detected in a party wall, it’s important to act promptly to identify the source and assess the extent of the issue. Dampness in party walls can result from various causes, such as defective gutters, poor drainage, rising damp, or even leaks from neighbouring properties. If left unaddressed, it can lead to structural damage, compromised insulation and health concerns due to mould. Incorporating a surveyor as soon as you notice damp is important for avoiding costly repairs.

WWhat are the key signs that a structural survey might be needed?

Structural surveys are often required when potential problematic issues are evident, or significant changes are planned for a building. Key signs include visible cracks in walls or ceilings, sagging roofs, uneven floors, or doors and windows that no longer fit properly. Other indicators including water ingress, damp patches, or deterioration in materials such as brickwork or timber may suggest deeper structural concerns. At Jaram Associates, we recommend a structural survey when purchasing an older property, undertaking renovations, or if the building has been exposed to extreme weather or subsidence for example.

Why Choose Jaram Associates for Specialised Surveys & Assessments

With over 40 years of experience in the building industry, we've gained a deep understanding of buildings, working as contractors and surveyors. This extensive background gives us valuable insight into issues that arise.