Dilapidations Project using Thermography
An existing long-term client to RWS Ltd reported issues with a building which was not water tight. Several repairs by facilities management had been undertaken to the property but had failed to find a solution, RWS suggested employing an infrared thermographic survey to try to ascertain issues which remained undiscovered during previous works or surveys.
One of our fully qualified ITC Thermographers visited site and began investigations into the building fabric. Internal and external surveys were completed as well as a report scoping the dilapidations of the property.
The report showed evidence that the flat roof and rainwater goods were failing, causing an ingress of water which tracked down the walls internally into the sales area. This ingress occurred over all 4 stories and our survey revealed the amount of damage to each individual area.
After discussions with the client it was recommended and agreed that we strip back the existing finishes inside the building and allow it to dry to a sufficient level. Thereafter new finishes could be installed throughout and the building updated to a level appropriate for use by staff.
External works description:
- New flat roof covering and repairs
- New rainwater goods including gutters and downpipes
- Repointing the elevation and replacement facing bricks
- New lead flashings to upstands
- Repair and refurbish fire exit doors
- Repair and refurbish timber sash windows
- External decoration
- Redress coping stones and upstands to flat roof area
Internal works description:
- Strip down of plaster wall surfaces and replacement
- Removal of ceilings and installation of new
- New light fittings
- Replacement carpets to water damaged areas.
- New Staff kitchen / Tea Point Area
- Repairs and redecoration throughout the Sales Area from water damage.
Summary:
The entire job was completed within 3 weeks. This was a standard dilapidations project for RWS. Using the thermal infa red technology allowed us to demonstrate to our client what areas were affected and why.
This infa red survey technology also saved labour on site by identifying critical areas first via its non-intrusive methods. It also reduced the amount of works required on stripping back surfaces for investigation.
If you are interested in the use of thermography for dilapidations please contact us. We are always happy to help.
