Mould and environmental dampness checklist.

https://www.olympic-construction.co.uk/

As environmental concerns, particularly regarding mould growth, have gained increasing attention in the media, it has become crucial to approach property inspections with diligence and care.

When it comes to properties where environmental dampness is a factor, it is vital to collect, record and present data accurately to avoid any potential legal claims.

This is my A to Z list of the essential information that should be taken into consideration when conducting a survey. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this list serves as a helpful reminder of the crucial steps you need to take to ensure that you're delivering the best possible service to your clients.

a.??? Property address.

b.??? Property orientation and exposure.

c.??? Property type and age.

d.??? Property construction solid/ cavity wall.

e.??? Insulation cavity/ external- internal wall and roof- type and location- warm /cold roof /sprayed foam.

f.???? Roof type pitched or flat, including bay windows and outriggers, roof ventilation- eaves, ridge, elevations. Felt type breathable/ non breathable – PVC- installed correctly- evidence of mould-condensation.? Water tanks covered/uncovered, party walls are the complete- vapour checks complete or compromised.

g.??? Chimneys location and how many, have any chimneys been removed/lowered.

h.??? Chimney ventilation, in use, fuel type, capped, vented, shared, defects.

i.????? Window and doors, type, double glazed, unit width, failed units, glass type, ventilation, conservatories defects.

j.????? Floor construction, solid, timber, mixed, ventilation. Insulation, cold bridging points.

k.??? Subfloor ventilation, adequate – inadequate- obstructed.

l.????? Building layout, number of bedrooms, wet rooms, floor area, ceiling height. Basements and loft conversions.

m.? Stair location and type, open plan- enclosed.

n.??? Occupancy information, how many adults/children live in the property, sleeping location.

o.??? Pets, including fish and other tanks.

p.??? Heating type gas, electric, underfloor, portable.

q.??? Heater controls, check timer settings, heating is on/off.

r.???? Confirm how occupants use heating,

s.??? Radiators, location, type, age, thermostat installed, note settings, recommended relocation of radiators.

t.???? Mechanical/ passive ventilation is it turned on/off, type/ location – test the extraction rate- cooker hood external/recycling, PIV units. Ducting type and route- insulated y/n – condensation traps y/n.

u.??? Note evidence of clothing being dried, radiator racks, maidens in use or stored, exercise areas/gyms.?

v.??? Internal doors, do they close correctly, are the undercuts correct, note adjustment required.

w.?? Internal atmospheric conditions, to each room. (photograph reading for records and report)

x.??? Surface temperature readings, using a thermal camera, will allow a full elevation view, highlighting cold spots and visual record to show if radiators were in use, to be included in your report.

y.??? External environmental conditions (photograph reading for records and report)

z.??? Occupant interview- how long have they lived in the property – when did the problem start, location of mould- in storage areas and list of items damaged, normal weekly activity, shift workers, permanently occupied- working from home.