CWBC PROJECT CASE STUDY
Pre-Acquisition Building Survey & Schedule of Condition
We were instructed to undertake a combined Pre-Acquisition Building Survey and Schedule of Condition for a detached property in Dudley.
Project Overview
Type of Survey: Pre-Acquisition Building Survey & Schedule of Condition
Location: Dudley, West Midlands
Type of Construction: Detached three-storey former residence adapted for institutional use, constructed in the 1940s with cavity brickwork, rendered upper elevations and pitched clay tile roofing.
The instruction formed part of due diligence ahead of lease commencement, with the objective of assessing the building’s overall condition, identifying structural risks, and recording its physical state at the point of occupation.
Originally built as a private residence and later converted for specialist use, the property comprises a mixture of traditional and modern elements. The inspection highlighted typical age-related wear alongside more significant maintenance issues affecting external fabric and drainage. The findings were used to inform lease negotiations and establish a baseline for future management of repair obligations.
Scope of Work
A full visual and non-invasive inspection was undertaken across all accessible internal and external areas, supplemented by photographic documentation to support the Schedule of Condition.
Assessment covered:
• Structural condition and substructure movement
• Roof coverings, chimneys, and leadwork
• External walls, render and joinery
• Rainwater disposal and external drainage
• Windows, doors, and fire escape installations
• Internal finishes, flooring, and roof voids
• Building services installations and compliance
• Health, safety, and maintenance considerations
Key Findings
Findings included but were not limited to:
• Roofing: The pitched clay tile roof and bay coverings were aged with slipped and broken tiles, weathered mortar, and extensive moss growth, indicating end-of-life condition.
• External Walls: Rendered upper elevations showed cracking, staining, and localised failure; lower brickwork required repointing and isolated repairs. Evidence of movement was noted to front bay structures and a retaining wall.
• Rainwater Goods: Mixed cast-iron and UPVC systems were blocked and leaking, contributing to damp staining and saturation of wall surfaces.
• External Staircase & Grounds: The metal fire escape displayed advanced corrosion and distortion; surrounding hard surfaces and retaining walls showed settlement and cracking.
Outcome and Recommendations
CWBC’s combined survey and photographic schedule provided a comprehensive understanding of the property’s structural and maintenance condition prior to lease execution.
Key outcomes included:
• A clear record of existing defects to define the property’s condition at lease commencement
• Identification of structural and fabric risks requiring early intervention
• Advice on maintenance priorities and long-term refurbishment planning
• Recommendations for further investigation into drainage, structural stability and compliance testing
The coordinated reporting enabled the client to proceed with a full awareness of repair liabilities, ensuring informed decision-making and future protection under lease obligations.