01482 659522 07950 415223 douglas@jaramassociates.co.uk
01482 659522 07950 415223 douglas@jaramassociates.co.uk
A ventilation assessment looks at the quality of the air within a property and identifies particulate pollutants that could compromise air quality.
Surveyors should always check ventilation as part of their inspections for damp and mould, unfortunately this is not always carried out. We undertake a ventilation assessment which includes checking both background, purge ventilation and mechanical ventilation, such as trickle vents, windows and extractor fans.
Trickle vents, commonly integrated into windows, are designed to allow a controlled flow of fresh air into the property.
In modern buildings, mechanical ventilation plays a crucial role, especially as we build structures more airtight. In the past, leaky single-glazed windows and chimneys provided natural ventilation, unfortunately though these features often made older properties cold.
Poor ventilation can lead to several health ill-effects, which vary depending on the environment and the activities carried out within the property.
In residential properties, poor ventilation is often visible by condensation on windows particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.Some signs of poor ventilation include:
Living or working in an environment that is stuffy, poorly ventilated, or prone to high humidity can have unpleasant side effects. Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining air quality and preventing issues such as mould, dampness, and respiratory problems.
At Jaram Associates, we go beyond the basics by testing mechanical ventilation with specialised equipment. Unlike many surveyors who may assume a system is working simply because it makes noise or can hold a piece of paper to the grille, we are trained to inspect and test mechanical ventilation to NICEIC approved standards.
Our thorough approach involves using advanced instruments to measure airflow, check ducting for blockages, and verify the system's overall efficiency. This ensures that your ventilation system is performing as intended and meets industry standards.
often undertake basic indoor air quality assessment as part of other surveys such as ventilation inspection or damp and mould surveys. The quality of indoor air is not only relevant to damp and mould issues, but also the health of the occupants. We can also check for issues such as PM10 and PM2.5 particulate matter and high carbon dioxide levels, which affects the health of the occupants.
Before the 1980s, many wall ties were made from mild steel with little or no corrosion protection. Over time, exposure to moisture and oxygen causes these ties to corrode, weakening their structural integrity. The expansion caused by the corrosion pushes apart the masonry, leading to cracking or bulging in the walls.
We use thermal Imaging and humidity measurement to undertake a risk assessment of the likelihood of mould formation. This can be performed as a one off assessment or if required we can install data loggers in properties to monitor air quality on a longer term basis. This allows us to establish any patterns of temperature or humidity.
While the question may seem straightforward, the answer depends on various factors, including the type of system installed, when it was put in place, and the specific installation standards. The Building Regulations' approved document F serves as a helpful guideline, but there are still areas that may require interpretation.
For tailored advice specific to your property, please feel free to contact us, and we would be happy to assist.
A ventilation assessment should be carried out whenever issues such as damp, mould, or condensation arise. Regular assessments can also help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place, ensuring your system continues to function effectively.
To assess mechanical extraction systems, we use an anemometer and funnel set to measure airflow. Additionally, an endoscope is employed to inspect ducting for blockages or wear.
For natural ventilation, such as opening windows and trickle vents, we conduct a visual inspection to ensure proper function.
Having worked in the industry for over 35 years, we have seen the impact poor ventilation can have on occupiers, from health issues and allergies to the long term damage caused by damp and mould. Our extensive approach uses specialised instruments and methods to produce expert ventilation assessment surveys and reports.
To find out more about our ventilation assessment services, or any other building surveys, please get in touch with Jaram Associates today.
Jaram Associates is an RICS registered firm of Chartered Building Surveyors formed in 2014
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Contact Us
Jaram Associates
5 Valley Drive
Kirkella
East Yorkshire
HU10 7PG
Tel: 01482 659522
Contact Us
Jaram Associates
Mobile: 07950 415223
Tel: 01482 659522
douglas@jaramassociates.co.uk
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