CWBC PROJECT CASE STUDY
Pre-Acquisition building survey; Radcliffe, Greater Manchester
A pre-acquisition building survey was undertaken for an early 20th-century industrial premises located in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester.
Project Overview
Type of Survey:
Pre-Acquisition building survey
Location:
Radcliffe, Greater Manchester
Type of Construction:
Single-storey industrial building with steel frame, solid brick walls, asbestos sheet roofing and Georgian wire rooflights
The instruction was to assess the general condition of the property and determine its suitability for occupation as a specialist leisure facility.
The inspection focused on identifying health, safety, and structural risks, establishing whether the building was wind and watertight, and estimating remedial costs to achieve a safe, habitable standard. The survey excluded fit-out works, environmental testing, and structural load assessments.
Scope of Work
The assessment involved a visual inspection of accessible areas to evaluate:
- The condition and integrity of roof coverings, drainage, and rainwater systems
- External walls, cladding, and structural stability
- Openings including windows, roller shutters, and pedestrian doors
- Internal steel frame, floors, and ceilings
- Services and safety-related risks
- Cost estimates for required remedial and replacement works
Due to restricted access to certain areas (including the basement and upper office), the findings were based on surface-level observations only.
Key Findings
Findings included but were not exclusive of:
- Roof Condition:
The asbestos sheet roof was extensively deteriorated, with multiple cracked panels, moss growth, and blocked gullies. The coverings and skylights were deemed beyond economic repair. Complete replacement with modern materials was recommended due to structural risk and asbestos presence. - Steel Frame:
Surface corrosion was observed throughout the internal framework, particularly beneath roof leaks. Sections may require partial replacement and rust-inhibiting treatment to restore load-bearing integrity. - Windows and Doors:
Roller shutters were corroded and inoperable in places due to impact damage and wind distortion. Metal-framed windows were rusted, with cracked glazing and missing panes. - Site Risks:
The electrical substation required immediate attention due to decayed access joinery and unsecured entry.
Outcome and Recommendations
The survey concluded that in its current condition, the building was not fit for occupation without substantial remedial work. Significant structural and environmental risks were present, including asbestos materials, corroded steelwork, and compromised weatherproofing.
Remedial options and cost analysis included two repair strategies, the first considering phased repairs and secondly, wholesale replacement.
Recommendations also included:
- Undertake full roof replacement under licensed asbestos procedures
- Treat and repair structural steel elements
- Replace defective roller shutters, glazing, and external joinery
- Obtain asbestos management, electrical safety, and structural integrity reports before lease commitment
The survey findings enabled informed decision-making and risk management prior to any acquisition or lease agreement, providing clear cost benchmarks and safety considerations for future redevelopment.