CWBC PROJECT CASE STUDY
Pre-Acquisition Building Survey
We were instructed to carry out a Pre-Acquisition Building Survey for a mixed-use property in the heart of Wakefield.
Project Overview
Type of Survey: Pre-Acquisition Building Survey
Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Type of Construction: Late 19th-century mid-terrace mixed-use premises comprising retail units at ground level and residential accommodation above. Built using traditional load-bearing solid masonry, it has been extended with cavity wall additions and incorporates a variety of roof types alongside suspended timber floors and a blend of period and modern finishes.
The survey formed part of the client’s due diligence prior to purchase, with the aim of identifying structural defects, assessing compliance risks, and advising on future maintenance requirements.
The property, originally constructed in the late 19th century, has undergone various alterations including a second-floor rear extension and internal conversion works. While the building retains much of its original character, the survey highlighted areas where modern interventions had impacted performance—particularly in relation to breathability, weatherproofing, and fire safety.
As part of our tailored approach, the inspection also considered the feasibility of long-term refurbishment and compliance upgrades to support future occupancy and investment planning.
Scope of Work
A full inspection was carried out across all accessible areas of the property, supported by internal roof void access and thermal imaging to assess moisture ingress and insulation performance.
Our assessment included:
- Structural condition, roof coverings, walls, and finishes
- Rainwater disposal systems and external drainage
- Windows, doors, shopfronts, and joinery
- Internal layout, roof voids, and cellar condition
- Heating, ventilation, electrical systems, and fire safety
- Environmental risks including radon and asbestos
- Legal and statutory compliance considerations
Key Findings
Findings included but were not limited to:
- Roofing: Multiple roof types were present, with slipped slates, moss growth, and deteriorated felt coverings observed. Ventilation issues were noted in the roof void, with condensation staining suggesting limited airflow.
- Walls & Masonry: Cement-based mortar had been used inappropriately on solid masonry walls, reducing breathability. Repointing with lime mortar was recommended.
- Windows & Doors: UPVC windows were aged and required resealing. Timber shopfronts and doors showed signs of decay due to non-breathable paint finishes. Roller shutters appeared intact but lacked operational verification.
- Floors: Suspended timber floors showed deflection in some areas, particularly in the second-floor kitchen.
Outcome and Recommendations
Our findings provided the client with a clear understanding of the property’s current condition, compliance risks, and future maintenance needs, supporting informed decision-making ahead of acquisition.
Key outcomes included:
- A prioritised schedule of remedial actions to address structural, safety, and environmental concerns
- Recommendations for further investigation into drainage, fire safety, and roof ventilation
- Guidance on long-term refurbishment planning to improve performance and regulatory compliance
This assessment gave the client confidence in managing future liabilities, planning capital expenditure, and ensuring the property’s suitability for mixed-use occupancy.