Explain a key issue raised by RICS Surveying Safely.
The “Safe Person” concept: Individuals are responsible for their own H&S and must conduct dynamic risk assessments rather than just following a checklist.
What things would you check before attending site?
Access arrangements, site history, OS maps, flood risks, asbestos registers, and ensuring my lone-working “check-in” protocol is active.
What is the size of a standard brick?
215mm x 102.5mm x 65mm (Standard UK format).
What are the usual sizes of floor and ceiling void in a new office?
Typically a 150mm raised floor void and a 350mm–450mm ceiling void to accommodate modern HVAC and cabling.
What does Grade A specification mean for an office?
High-quality finishes, raised floors, suspended ceilings, HVAC (VRF/Chilled Beam), good natural light, and high ESG ratings (BREEAM ‘Excellent’).
What is the British Council for Offices (BCO)?
An industry body that provides research and best-practice guidance for office design and occupation standards.
What eaves height is desirable for an office building?
Typically 2.6m to 2.8m floor-to-ceiling. (Note: “Eaves height” is more commonly a warehouse term, where 8m–12m+ is desirable for racking).
What is an easement and how do you find one?
A right to use another’s land (e.g., right of way). It is found in the Charges Register of the Title Deeds (Official Copies).
Solid vs. Cavity wall construction?
Solid: Usually pre-1930s, ~225mm thick, English or Flemish bond (headers visible). Cavity: Post-1930s, 300mm+ thick, Stretcher bond (only long sides visible).
What is a hidden valley gutter?
A gutter located between two roof slopes, often hidden by a parapet. They are prone to blockages, which can cause significant internal dampness.
Subsidence vs. Heave?
Subsidence: Downward movement of the ground. Heave: Upward movement of the ground (often due to clay expansion or tree removal).
How can Japanese Knotweed impact value?
It can cause structural damage; its presence can lead to mortgage refusals and high costs for 5–10 year chemical treatment bonds.
What is Radon and how do you reduce risk?
A radioactive gas from the ground. Risk is reduced via specialized ventilation or “radon sumps” to extract gas from beneath the floor.
Inherent vs. Latent defect?
Inherent: A defect present from birth (design/material flaw). Latent: A hidden defect that only becomes apparent over time (e.g. wall tie failure).
Hart v Large (2021) implications?
Emphasized that surveyors must advise clients to seek specialist reports if they cannot fully inspect a specific element/risk.
McGlinn v Waltham Contractors principles?
A surveyor must follow a “trail of suspicion”; if they see a sign of a defect, they must investigate further or warn the client.
