Façade rehabilitation reports - Judicial expert of the construction industry

Façade Leaks: How a Building Surveyor Can Help Solve Them

Façade leaks are one of the most common and worrying problems in buildings and dwellings, especially in regions with humid or rainy climates. This type of problem can have serious effects on the structure of the building and the quality of life of its occupants, as leaks often lead to dampness, stains, deterioration of materials and, in extreme cases, health problems for the inhabitants due to mould.

A building surveyor is a specialised expert who can identify the cause of leaks, assess the impact of the damage and offer appropriate technical solutions. In addition, their intervention is crucial in situations of conflict with builders or maintenance companies, as an expert report can support the necessary claims or legal action.

What Causes Façade Leaks?

Leakages in facades can be caused by several factors, which a building surveyor can accurately identify:

1. Construction DefectsOne of the main reasons for leaks is poor workmanship. If the waterproofing processes were not respected during construction, or if poor quality materials were used, the façades may leak after a short period of use.
2. Wear and tear of materialsFacades are continuously exposed to climatic changes and the action of elements such as water, sun and wind. This natural wear and tear can lead to cracks and fissures that allow water to enter.
3. Lack of maintenanceFaçades need regular maintenance to keep them watertight. Without proper care, joints and cladding can deteriorate, facilitating water ingress.
4. Errors in Architectural DesignPoorly planned design or design without adequate drainage and ventilation precautions may encourage water accumulation and increase the risk of leaks.

How Can a Construction Surveyor Help?

A legal expert specialising in construction is the right person to carry out an exhaustive diagnosis of leaks in façades. Their experience and technical knowledge allow them to identify problems that may go unnoticed at first glance. Below, we explain how an expert can help in these cases:

1. Leakage Assessment and Diagnosis The first step is a detailed inspection of the façade to determine the source of the leaks. This includes the identification of cracks, faults in the waterproofing systems, and other technical problems that may be causing water ingress. Using advanced tools such as thermographic cameras or water testing systems, the surveyor can detect critical points and provide an accurate diagnosis.
2. Technical Expert Report Following the assessment, the expert prepares a technical expert report in which he details all problems encountered, explains the causes of the leaks and assesses the damage. This report is an objective document that can be used in legal proceedings or in claims against the responsible construction company or contractor. The technical report provides:

• Description of the problemLocation of leaks, materials affected and type of damage.
• Causes of leakageRoot cause analysis of the problem, be it construction defects, wear and tear of materials or lack of maintenance.
• Proposed solutionsTechnical recommendations for repairing the problem, including materials and methods necessary to ensure the waterproofing of the façade.

1. Dispute Resolution and Complaints In many cases, property owners face disputes with builders or insurers due to leaking façades. A building surveyor's report is a crucial resource in these cases, as it provides technical evidence to help prove the cause of the problem and support the claim. If it is necessary to take the case to court, the surveyor can also act in the following capacities expert witness to defend the interests of the owner, explaining clearly and in detail the defects and damage caused by the leaks.
2. Preventive Advice and Long-Term Solutions In addition to assisting in the resolution of existing problems, the building surveyor can offer preventative advice to avoid future leaks. This includes recommendations on the proper maintenance of the façade and suggestions for design and construction improvements to ensure that the façade will better withstand weather conditions and the passage of time.

Benefits of having a Judicial Expert witness in cases of leaks in façades.

Hiring the services of a court-appointed building surveyor has many advantages for property owners or managers:

• Expert and Objective DiagnosisThe intervention of an expert guarantees an accurate and unbiased diagnosis of the façade situation.
• Technical and Legal DocumentationThe expert report is an essential tool to support claims or lawsuits and to protect the interests of the owner.
• Recommendations for Effective RepairsThe expert offers practical and sustainable solutions, ensuring that repairs are effective and long-lasting.
• Long Term Cost Savings: Detecting and fixing leaks early avoids major repairs in the future, preserving the integrity of the façade and the owner's investment.

Leaks in façades are a serious problem that, if not solved in time, can have costly and risky consequences for the occupants of a building. The intervention of a building surveyor is essential to identify the origin of the leaks, assess the damage and propose effective solutions. In addition, their technical expert report is a valuable resource in situations of conflict with builders, insurers or maintenance companies.

If you have problems with leaks in your façade or need technical assistance to manage a claim, Aurelio Tamarit Blaywith more than 30 years of experience as a construction surveyor, can offer you the advice and support you need. His experience in the detection of hidden faults and in the preparation of technical reports guarantees a professional and reliable service, helping you to solve leakage problems and to protect your investment in the property.