Weathertightness (WT)
This involves assessment of claddings and linings by the following methods:
- Visual
- Non-invasive moisture meter readings
- Invasive testing and sampling by destructive testing and moisture readings.
These investigations pay particular attention to junctions of claddings that are known to be susceptible to water ingress from the following issues:
- Design defect
- Material failure
- Poor construction detailing
The visual inspection looks at the following areas (but not limited to):
- The exterior cladding junctions and control joints (or lack of)
- Multiple exterior claddings (change of cladding types within the wall length)
- Multiple floor levels
- Around openings and penetrations
- Reverse raking soffits
- Internal areas of particular interest (window openings, differing floor levels - upper and lower floor levels, wet floor areas)
The assessment takes into consideration a risk matrix score using the E2/AS1 requirements as outlined in the acceptable solutions of the building code and the type of claddings and construction (i.e. claddings over a cavity or direct fixed).
Where possible we will review all known plans and specifications to check for compliance with the approved documentation at the time the dwelling / building was constructed.
Invasive testing consists of cutting way exterior claddings and interior linings to measure the moisture content of timber with deep penetrating prongs and moisture meter. Timer samples are also taken if required and sent to the laboratory for further testing.
The further testing will identify issues within the building elements that may / will require remediation, with this information it will also help to identify the type and extent of remediation required.
Tests will be carried out to identify the following:
- Timber treatment
- Mould and spores type
- Age of mould and spores
- Type of decay
Certificate of Acceptance (CoA)
Further testing will identify issues within the building elements that may / will require remediation, with this information, it will also help to identify the type and extent of remediation required.
Tests will be carried out to identify the following:
- Timber treatment
- Mould and spores type
- Age of mould and spores
- Type of decay
Deferred Maintenance (DM)
This involves a non-invasive assessment of the exterior claddings and interior linings. We provide a report on the condition and what is required to bring these up to the manufacturer's recommendations, and also comment on the detrimental effects to these building elements if nothing is carried out to rectify the issues.
Earthquake Prone Buildings (EPB)
This normally involves other third-party consultants - generally a structural engineer. The investigation calculates the building strength against today's building code requirements. Once this is established, we work with the engineer to find solutions to bring the building back to an acceptable strength to allow the building to be occupied.
Maintenance schedules (MS)
We will prepare a schedule or program that allows for the maintenance of the exterior claddings and interior linings, and other building elements. This ensures that all materials perform to their highest standard, that decorative finishes and substrates achieve their intended service life, and that the period before any major remediation is required for any building element is maximised.
Other Investigation Services
Some of the types of invasive or other investigations that may be required to be undertaken by other third-party consultants include:
- The removal of claddings to examine the extent of water ingress
- Air sampling for contaminants, e.g. mould
- Asbestos testing of claddings, linings or decorative finishes
- Electrical circuits, fixtures and fittings
- Plumbing, gas fixtures and fittings
- Structural engineering
- Geotechnical (ground) engineering
- Surveying to define boundaries or district plan requirements
- Quantity surveyor for cost estimations
Samples may be taken and sent to the laboratory for further investigation to identify any of the following:
- Timber treatment
- Mould and spores type
- Age of mould and spores
- Type of decay
