Defect Building Analysis
A defect building analysis provides a structured investigation into issues affecting the condition, safety or performance of a commercial property.
A defect building analysis provides a structured investigation into issues affecting the condition, safety or performance of a commercial property.
Rather than relying on assumptions or a surface-level inspection, a formal defect analysis examines the root cause of problems. Covering issues such as structural movement, water ingress, material failure or workmanship defects, a defect building analysis can help you to make informed decisions on appropriate remedial action.
We act for landlords, occupiers, investors and managing agents, providing practical advice based on technical evidence.
A defect building analysis can help you to make informed decisions on appropriate remedial action
When and Why Defect Analysis Is Needed
Building defects very rarely resolve themselves. If left unchecked, minor issues can escalate into more significant structural, operational or financial problems.
A structured defect analysis can help to support with:
Identifying root cause issues early
Understanding the underlying cause of specific issues prevents repeated or ineffective repairs and reduces the risk of recurrence.Protecting the value of your asset
A timely diagnosis and the appropriate remedial advice can help to prevent further deterioration or issues down the line, which in turn can help to protect long-term investment value.Managing risk and liability
Where defects have the potential to affect health and safety, compliance or tenant occupation, clear evidence supports responsible decision-making and reduces your exposure to risk and liability.Developing an informed repair strategy
Identifying the correct solution avoids unnecessary expenditure and ensures the repair works are proportionate to the issue identified.Helping with dispute resolution
Where defects involve contractors, developers, tenants or neighbouring properties, an independent assessment provides objective, defensible evidence.
Without a structured analysis, property owners risk repeated repair costs, unresolved issues and increasing exposure over time.
How We Support Property Owners and Occupiers
Our role is to provide clarity on an existing situation. Not only by identifying what is wrong, but also why it has occurred and what should be done next.
Our defect building analysis typically includes:
A detailed inspection of the affected areas
Assessment of building construction and materials
Investigation into the likely cause and extent of the defect
Photographic documentation and supporting evidence
Clear recommendations for remedial action
Budget cost guidance where appropriate
Where required, we can coordinate specialist investigations or testing to ensure conclusions are robust and defensible.
Why GJS Dillon?
Clients choose our building surveying team because of our technical expertise alongside our commercial judgement and track record for practical problem-solving.
WHAT THAT MEANS IN PRACTICE IS:
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EXPERIENCED IN INVESTIGATIONS ACROSS A WIDE RANGE OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TYPES
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EVIDENCE-LED ADVICE FOCUSED ON CAUSE, NOT ASSUMPTION
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COMMERCIALLY GROUNDED RECOMMENDATIONS ALIGNED TO OWNERSHIP OBJECTIVES
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CLEAR REPORTING THAT SUPPORTS DECISION-MAKING AND NEGOTIATION
Our defect analysis advice is delivered by experienced, qualified surveyors.
Wider building surveying support
Defect analysis often forms part of a wider strategy. Our building surveying team can also assist with:
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Commercial Building Surveys
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Schedules of Condition
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Reinstatement Cost Assessments
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Project and refurbishment advice
This joined-up approach ensures remedial decisions align with your longer-term commercial property objectives.
If you’re experiencing building defects, recurring issues or concerns about structural performance, early advice can make a significant difference.
Contact Rob Cant, Director Building Surveying & Project Consultancy, to discuss your requirements and receive clear, commercially grounded advice.
Your Next Step
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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We investigate structural movement, cracking, water ingress, roof failures, façade issues, material deterioration and workmanship defects, among others.
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In many cases, yes. Addressing symptoms without understanding the cause can lead to repeated costs and unresolved issues.
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Yes. An independent, evidence-based report can support negotiations with contractors, tenants, insurers or neighbouring owners.
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No. Defects can arise in both older and modern properties, including recently completed developments.
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Where appropriate, we provide reasoned budget guidance to support planning and decision-making.
What’s The Best First Step?
Start with a conversation about the issue you’re experiencing. From there, we can advise on the appropriate scope of investigation and next steps.
Supporting Real-World Commercial Property Decisions
We work with a wide range of clients across different sectors, providing practical, commercially focused advice that supports confident property decisions.