admin, Author at Property Health Check

Neighbour wanting to build on boundary wall

Question My neighbours of some twenty years whom we have a good relationship with have recently approached us about building an extension onto the back of their house. We also have an extension which we completed 10 years ago which is built just inside the existing shared boundary wall dividing both our properties. My neighbour […]

More concerns about pyrite in houses?

There are believed to be up to of 15,000 properties in Ireland which are contaminated with pyrite backfill. We hope that our website will help you find the information you require concerning all aspects of pyrite damage to houses. When damage occurs as a result of pyrite under the floors it can be a very stressful time. […]

Testing for Pyrite in Backfill

Property Health Check does not carry out laboratory testing to confirm that your house is free of pyrite. Golders based in Naas, Co Kildare are perhaps the the best known pyrite testing companies in Ireland. We certainly don’t want to be the bearer of bad news, but if your house has pyrite your test results will […]

Pyrite damage in most cases can be more costly to repair then settlement or cracking in walls?

The damage that pyrite back-fill can cause is an expensive defect to remedy and stressful to the property owner. Pyrite damage in most cases can be more costly to repair then settlement or cracking in walls so it is important that pyrite damage is not incorrectly diagnosed during the initial structural survey. The percentage or concentration of pyrite in […]

Should you consider getting a pyrite test carried out before you buy a property?

Answer. When you are thinking about buying or selling a property, should you consider getting a pyrite test carried out before you sell or purchase?. In most cases the cracks that are visible in walls and floors in your potential new house are the result of natural drying or poor building practices and are not […]

Does rainfall affect the rate of Pyrite expansion?

Answer. Is the total amount of rain fall in Ireland speeding up the rate of pyrite expansion under our houses from what is happening in Canada. There is a mis-conception in the building industry and by some building professionals that the rate of pyrite expansion of contaminated backfill should show up more quickly or become […]

Buying a Home with Suspected Pyrite Damage

Found your ideal home. Now that you have found the ideal home, you can get ready to get all your contracts signed, organise your mortgage and look forward to moving into your new home. You have agreed a price with the estate agent and decide that its better to be safe then sorry and organise […]

What type of home buyers survey do I need?

Answer. Different types of building surveys Visual survey Home buyers survey Residential survey Engineers report Building survey Pre-purchase house survey Structural building engineer report Condition report Property survey Structural survey Full structural survey Note, it is important to be aware that some “full structural survey reports” may actually contain less information then a “visual survey”. The different […]

Sample of a Property Survey Check list.

Property Survey Check List The purpose of our “How to Survey A Property Checklist” is to assist both sellers and buyers of properties to identify defects that the building surveyor will be looking for. If you have the skills and experience it may also save you the cost of a building survey. This guide will help […]

What Sellers and Buyers should know when organizing a building survey

Answer. This post will assist buyers and sellers of properties identify defects and other potential issues that the building surveyor will be looking for when your property is surveyed. If certain defects can be identified and repaired before the house is placed on the market for sale, it should prevent renegotiation taking place at a […]

What are some of the common types of structural defects in older houses that are expensive to repair?

Answer. General Structure. The structure is by far the most important part of a building survey. In many instances, structural problems are expensive to repair. The structural part of the building survey involves examining all the visible parts of the exterior, the roof, interior walls, ceilings, floors, attic spaces, doors and window frames. Particular attention […]

Should I check the roof of my property after a storm?

Answer. One of the most common reasons for insurance claims in Ireland is as of damage caused by a storm. From experience we find that typical damage cause by a storm such as lifted roof tiles and roof flashing, may not be immediately visible to the homeowner. The damage may only becomes visible from the […]

Do plumbing leaks result in hidden damage to your home?

Answer. One of the most common insurance claims made by home owners is for burst water pipes. Last year in Ireland there where thousands of burst pipe and water leak claims resulting in tens of millions in settlement claims. During cold weather, if water pipes are not insulated adequately the water inside the pipe will freeze. […]

What are the common terms used in a Home Insurance Policy?

Answer. Note, You should read your insurance policy document in full, different insurance companies may have different definitions then the ones listed below. An understanding of the terms used by insurance companies is a great starting point for unravelling your insurance policy. This insurance terms glossary contains some of the most common terms. Accident An […]

What should you expect from your building surveyor?

Answer. What To Expect: Many home buyers sometimes buy their home on impulse. Experienced building surveyors can help home buyers avoid buyers remorse by reporting on building defects and problems before the home buyer finds them after closing. All detailed surveys should provide clients with the tools they need to make an educated choice regarding […]

What do I need to know about the roof over my property?

Answer. The main requirements of a roof is to prevent moisture penetration and to transfer the roof loads to load bearing walls of the property. Roofing is the water resistant material what protects the structure from being damaged by water. The term roof is usually broader and includes the roofing and the supporting structure. With […]

What is Radon?

Answer Radon is a radioactive gas which occurs naturally in the ground from the decay of uranium present in rocks and soils. It is estimated that the effects of exposure to radon gas kills about 200 people a year in Ireland. You cannot smell, see or taste radon gas. Radon can only be measured with […]

Why is radon a problem?

Answer It is estimated that the effects of exposure to radon gas kills about 200 people a year in Ireland. You cannot smell, see or taste radon gas. Radon can only be measured with special equipment. Radon is a radioactive gas which produces minuscule radioactive dust particles. When breathed into the lungs, the radon gas […]

Frequently asked questions about pyrite in homes

Answer Pyrite in your home The damage that pyrite can cause is stressful to the home owner and an expensive problem to remedy. The possibility that pyrite may have been used in a small number of homes in a development can have a very negative affect on all property values in that development. The presence […]

Beginning your investigation on why there are cracks in the walls of your property.

When a Building Surveyor reports on a crack in a wall he is basing his opinion on what he can visually see at the time of inspection. Cracks can open and close over a season and a minor crack that is now visible to the building surveyor may be in existence since the property was […]

What if the surveyor finds asbestos during his building survey?

Answer Deaths and serious illnesses, normally results from inhaling the fibers in building asbestos materials. Asbestos use in building materials was to strengthen structures and improve fire resistance and was commonly used in houses. Asbestos related deaths usually followed long-term exposure to the raw material. The critical factor is whether it is exposed or not and whether you come into […]

FAQ’s about septic tanks?

Answer How Septic Tanks Work Tanks are designed to allow waste liquids to flow through the tank and enter a percolation area without causing damage to the environment. Waste waters enter the tank and the solids to sink to the bottom. Smaller particles float to the surface creating a scum. Most of the waste decomposes […]

Some more information about septic tanks and secondary treatment systems.

HOW SEPTIC TANKS WORK Septic tanks are designed to allow liquids to flow through the tank and enter a percolation area without causing damage to the environment. Waste waters enter the tank and the flow is reduced through a series of baffles allowing the solids to sink to the bottom. Additionally, smaller particles float to […]

FAQ, about building surveys

Q: What is a “House Survey”? A: house survey is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Our building surveyor’s report will include an evaluation of the condition of the home’s roof, attic, roof coverings, insulation, exterior, grounds, heating system, plumbing and electrical […]

What are the most common type defects found in sliding doors?

Answer Poorly fitted and maintained patio doors are a common defect found during our house surveys. All patio doors have similar working parts leading to similar defects. A patio door has two sides, a fixed stationary side and the opening sliding section. Both the door handle and locking system are normally located on the sliding […]

What is a party/boundary wall mediation agreement?

Answer A mediation agreement is entered into following an acceptable resolution between adjoining home owners. The mediator will draft a written agreement detailing the terms and conditions of the settlement they have reached and to which they have agreed. When both home owners agree to its terms, the parties, and the building surveyor / mediator, […]

How to avoid party wall disputes?

Answer It is worth checking before buying a new property or starting an extension whether the boundary are located in the proper location according to the folio map or title deeds of your property. If you buy a property or start extension works without following the correct procedures you have the possibility of ending up […]

Misunderstandings about party walls and boundary walls in Ireland

We get numerous calls to our office from both home owners and adjoining owners asking about their rights and responsibilities pertaining to their party walls and boundary walls. Quite often our callers have researched their questions and concerns over the internet or from friends and normally end up being more confused at the end of […]

What is a party wall?

Answer If you live in a semi-detached or terraced building, you share a wall or walls with your neighbour. Such walls are known as party walls. Party walls separate buildings belonging to different owners. Where a wall separates two different sized buildings, only the part that is used by both properties is considered to be […]

What are the basics in improving window security?

Answer During the course of a building survey, a common concern for new home owners is security. These issues are normally straight forward to remedy resulting in improved security in the windows. The security of any property largely depends on the quality of security and hardware used, within the windows themselves. Most windows provide a limited amount […]

Common patio door faults

Poorly fitted and maintained patio doors are a common defect found during our house surveys. All patio doors have similar working parts leading to similar defects. A patio door has two sides, a fixed stationary side and the opening sliding section. Both the door handle and locking system are normally located on the sliding door […]

What are the common window defects found during building surveys?

Answer Most building surveys find common window defects and door defects which may require replacement or minor repairs to ease operation and provide best performance from the windows or doors. The building survey will usually find that the house windows are made from uPVC, timber, steel or aluminium. Windows frames come in a variety of […]

Building Surveyor on Boundary Disputes

The Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009 is designed to help adjoining property owners resolve any disputes about works on or near the boundary line between two properties if they themselves cannot come to an agreement. Boundaries are denoted on Ordnance Survey plans and also on the title plans on the title deeds. […]

Party wall disputes

Avoiding party wall disputes It is worth checking before buying a new property or starting an extension whether the boundary are located in the proper location according to the folio map or title deeds of your property. If you buy a property or start extension works without following the correct procedures you have the possiblity […]

Where is your boundary line?

Answer The Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009 is designed to help neighbours resolve any disputes about works on or near the boundary line between two properties if they themselves cannot come to an agreement. Boundaries are denoted Ordnance Survey plans and also on the title plans on the title deeds. Each registered property […]

Building surveys and mediation boundary wall agreements

What is a Mediation Agreement Following an acceptable resolution between adjoining home owners, a solicitor / mediator will draft a written agreement detailing the terms and conditions of the settlement they have reached and to which they have agreed. When both home owners agree to its terms, the parties, and the solicitor / mediator, will […]

Why use a party wall expert for your building survey?

Answer Do you need advice on resolving party wall issues or boundary disputes? If you are considering a major investment in an attic conversion, building a side or rear extension, building a shed or garage, or even structurally modifying a shared ceiling or floor, chances are high that you will run into a party wall […]

Mediation in Boundary Wall Disputes

Mediation is a process whereby an impartial and independent party wall surveyor facilitates home owners to a party wall dispute in resolving their differences. Mediation by a boundary wall expert allows the home owners a less expensive alternative to court and greater personal control. The role of the Mediator is to help the both boundary wall […]

When is a wall considered a party wall?

Answer Construction work, including renovations or extensions, may likely have some impact on a Party Wall structure. A wall is considered a party wall structure if it meets either of the following two conditions: The wall in question stands astride a boundary of land belonging to two or more different owners; this means that approximately […]

Asbestos survey and your home

Asbestos surveys show that-asbestos related deaths and serious illnesses, normally results from inhaling the fibers in building asbestos materials. Asbestos use in building materials was to strengthen structures and improve fire resistance and was commonly used in houses. Asbestos related deaths usually followed long-term exposure to the raw material. The critical factor is whether it is exposed or not and […]

About cracks in walls

When a Building Surveyor is inspecting a crack in a wall he is basing his opinion on what he can visually see at the time of inspection. Cracks can open and close over a season and a minor crack that is now visible to the building surveyor may be in existence since the property was […]

About septic tanks

How septic tanks work Septic tanks are designed to allow liquids to flow through the tank and enter a percolation area without causing damage to the environment. Waste waters enter the tank and the flow is reduced through a series of baffles allowing the solids to sink to the bottom. Additionally, smaller particles float to […]

About radon gas building structural survey comments

Structural survey reports on Radon Gas What is radon? Radon is a radioactive gas which occurs naturally in the ground from the decay of uranium present in rocks and soils. Why is radon a problem? It is estimated that the effects of exposure to radon gas kills about 200 people a year in Ireland. You […]

What is pyrite in homes?

Property Health Check does not provide pyrite testing, or any certification in relation to pyrite testing. However, clients often ask when they are thinking about buying or selling a property, should they consider getting a pyrite test carried out before selling or purchasing? The following should hopefully give a little more insight into pyrite and how […]

Structural survey of roof

The main requirements of a roof is to prevent moisture penetration and to transfer the roof loads to load bearing walls of the property. Roofing is the water-resistant material what protects the structure from being damaged by water. The term roof is usually broader and includes the roofing and the supporting structure. With leak free […]

What are some common areas of concern during structural surveys?

Answer The structure is by far the most important part of a building survey. In many instances, structural problems can be very expensive to repair. The structural part of the building survey involves examining all the visible parts of the exterior, the roof, interior walls, ceilings, floors, attic spaces, doors and window frames. Particular attention […]

towns-covered-in-co-kerry-area

Building Survey Cork Kerry Area. Adrigole Anascaul Bantry Baraduff Caherdaniel Cahersiveen Castleisland Castletown Bearhaven Dingle Glenbeigh Glengarriff Kenmare Kilgarvan Killarney Killorgan Lauragh Milltown Rathmore Sneem Tralee Waterville Our website also provides information about septic tanks, structural walls, roofs, floors, grounds and much more.

Pre-purchase structural survey Dublin Kildare Meath Cork

Pre purchase structural survey carried out in the Dublin, Cork, Kildare, Wicklow and Meath. Dublin 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,20,22,24 DonaghmedeDonnybrookDrimnaghDruncondraDunboyne PortmarnockProperousRahenyRanelaghRathbourne AdamstownAilesburyAllenwoodAshbourneAshtown DundrumDun LaoghaireDunshaughlinEnfieldGlassnevin RathcooleRathgarRathmichaelRathminesRatoath BaldoyleBallinteerBallybrackBallbrigganBallsbridge FinglasFirhouseHarolds CrossHazelhatchHowth RathfarnhamRingsendRonanstownRushSaggart BallybodenBallyfermotBallymunBeaumontBelgard InchicoreInnfieldIrishtownJobstownKilcock SallinsSallynogginSandycoveSandyfordSandymount BlackrockBlanchardstownBlessingtonBooterstownBray Kildare TownKiliernanKilmainhamKilnamanaghKimmage SantryShankillSkerriesSouth Circular RdSpringfield CabinteelyCabraCarburyCarpenterstownCarrickmines KingswoodKnocklyonLeixlipLeopardstownLucan StepasideStillorganStraffanSummerhillSundrive CastleknockCelbridgeChapelizodChurchtownCitywest LuskLuttrellstownMalahideMarinoMaynooth SuttonSwordsTallaghtTempleogueTerenure ClaneClondalkinCloneeClonshaughClonsilla MilltownMonkstownMount MerrionMulhuddartNaas Walkinstown ClonskeaghClontarfCoolockCoolmineCorduff NeilstownNewbridgeNewcastleNorth Circular RdOld Bawn CornelscourtCrumlinDalkeyDonabateDonadee PalmerstonPalmerstownPhibsboroPoppintreePortobello Our website also […]

What to expect from a building survey

What to expect Many home buyers sometimes buy their home on impulse. Experienced building surveyors can help home buyers avoid buyers remorse by reporting on building defects and problems before the home buyer finds them after closing. As a professional Building Surveying company we at Property Health Check, provide our building surveying clients with the […]

building-surveyor-testimonials

Property Health Check, our building surveyor client’s comment on their building surveys. About 70% of our pre-purchase building survey business originates from existing clients or from their solicitors who are familiar with our survey reports. We don’t advertise in phone book directories, local or national papers. We concenstrate our efforts in providing our clients with […]