In addition to our portfolio of RICS surveys and valuation, Able Surveyors offer a number of specific property services including Schedules of Condition at the start of major building works or a new Lease Term, Snagging Reports for new builds, and building movement monitoring services.
Why do you need movement monitoring?
Newly detected cracks in walls and structural movement in a property are no laughing matter. We can put your mind at rest during building works by carrying out detailed monitoring services and producing clear and easy-to-understand reports to monitor movements of foundations over time.
If you are planning to undertake extensive structural works to your property, movement monitoring at an early stage is highly recommended. This is particularly important for works that fall under the remit of The Party Wall Act 1996. In fact, movement monitoring is becoming an increasingly common request by adjoining owners’ surveyors.
Where underpinning, basement excavations or party wall works are taking place as part of a major building project, a monitoring report can help you satisfy key requirements and agreements with neighbouring property owners.
How is building movement monitored?
There are a number of different approaches to movement monitoring. One of the most commonly used methods is crack monitoring to establish if there is ongoing movement in the building. Small metal studs are inserted either side of the cracks, and regular readings taken to ascertain whether the cracks are opening or closing. Typically, as little as 1mm movements can be detected. The measure will be monitored at regular intervals over a set period of time – typically 3 months to a year – to identify any live movement.
Movement monitoring systems are installed at a number of different point on the adjoining property before construction work begins. Monitoring an adjoining owner’s property in this way means any movement can be detected at the earliest possible stage while ensuring a full record of movement is in place. Once in place, the reading will provide clear information of the potential causes of movement while enabling the appropriate remedial works to be scheduled in.
For more information about our building movement monitoring services, any of our RICS surveys or other property related services, please contact Able Surveyors on 01277 651605 or email us a short enquiry here.